Methods of predicting pale, soft, exudative pork and their application in breeding programmes-A review

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Genetics
• Meat Science

Background:

• Pale, soft, exudative (PSE) pork is primarily a postmortem issue.
• Evidence suggests PSE pork originates from myopathy, leading to abnormal postmortem metabolism.
• Genetic factors contribute moderately to PSE muscle traits, necessitating live-animal selection methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify reliable methods for detecting PSE pork susceptibility in live pigs.
• To enable effective and economical selection against stress and PSE susceptibility.
• To assess potential methods for improving pig breeding for meat quality.

Main Methods:

• Blood serum analysis (enzyme activities, blood groups) with/without exercise.
• Muscle biopsy analysis (glucose-6-phosphate, lactate, energy-rich phosphates).
• Non-destructive halothane (fluothane) inhalation test for Malignant Hyperthermia Syndrome sensitivity.

Main Results:

• The halothane test identifies stress susceptibility and PSE potential through induced muscular rigidity.
• Blood and muscle biopsy analyses present inherent challenges for practical application.
• The halothane test is identified as the most promising method for breeding applications.

Conclusions:

• The halothane inhalation test is the most promising method for identifying stress-resilient pigs.
• Early detection of PSE susceptibility can significantly improve meat quality and breeding efficiency.
• Further research and application of this test can optimize pig breeding programs for stress resistance.