Effect of different binders on the quality of enrobed buffalo meat cutlets and their shelf life at refrigeration storage (4 ± 1 °C)

To enhance the binding and quality of enrobed buffalo meat cutlets (EBMC), a meat emulsion at 0%, 15%, 20% and 25% replaced the cooked meat in the formulation. Emulsion containing products had significantly higher moisture contents and texture scores compared to the control. Emulsion at 20% level could be incorporated in enrobed buffalo meat cutlets to enhance their quality. Addition of 1% egg white powder improved the quality of EBMC compared to control, while a 3% level had adverse effect on the sensory attributes despite giving higher product yield and lower shrinkage. Cutlets with refined wheat flour had significantly higher protein and fat contents. It had also higher acceptability followed by corn flour, potato starch and tapioca flour. TBARS of enrobed samples remained lower than controls throughout the storage period. Mesophilic count remained below log 3 cfu/g for both samples during storage. Uncoated products and enrobed products were acceptable up to 10th and 15th day, respectively. Enrobing of buffalo meat cutlets improved their acceptability and shelf life under refrigeration storage.