Integrated grading and solar drying of meat: first progress report

Abstract

A modified cabinet solar dryer based on an existing and functional cabinet solar dryer was constructed on a concrete floor collector and tested for its drying efficiency with 20Ullil.thick lean beef strips. The exceptionally faster drying rate of the 20mm. thick meat strips obtained in this experiment as compared with previous similar drying experiments using cabinet solar dryers, suggest a marked improvement in the modified cabinet Solar dryer constructed. This improvement was however complemented by the conducive weather conditions that prevailed during the drying period as indicated by weather data monitored. The solar dried meat product obtained in this experiment was exceptionally she1f stable and wholesome for human consumption based on chemical, microbiological and water activity analysis carried out on the dried meat samples. Sensory aspects of the dried meat product was however poor,in respect of meat texture and acceptability. This was probably due to the Leanness and dryness of the meat strips coupled with the unfamiliarity at the meat product; as a normal toad item in the diet of the taste panelists