Diffusion tensor imaging for spatially-resolved characterization of muscle fiber structure in seafood

The fiber structure of tissue in meat and seafood has a significant impact on their perceived quality. However, quantifiable description of muscle structure is challenging. We investigate diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a method to quantitatively describe tissue structure. DTI measures the anisotropy of water molecule diffusion within muscle fibers. A pilot study evaluated three different cod loin samples: one of high-quality, one of medium-quality, and one of poor-quality. DTI parameters such as fractional anisotropy, axial diffusion and radial diffusion showed clear differences between the sample qualities. Changes in the DTI metrics consistent with freezing and thawing damage to the tissue were observed. The DTI maps were compared to T₂-weighted images and DTI detected significant details that were not visible in T₂-weighted images. Overall, these results indicate that DTI is a promising method for spatially-resolved characterization of tissue structure in seafood and meat.