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Iron Injection and Ham Acceptability¹

Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina

Abstract

Two groups of baby pigs were injected in the ham with elemental iron within 3 days of birth. After slaughter, at approximately 90 kg. liveweight, the injected ham contained more iron than its companion control ham. There was little difference in acceptability of the injected and noninjected hams.

Two additional groups of swine were treated with iron within 3 days of birth, one group receiving oral iron pills and the other receiving an iron injection in the ham. These swine later received a second injection at approximately 45, 55 and 65 kg. liveweight or about 50, 40 and 30 days before slaughter, respectively. The injected ham contained a slightly greater content of iron than the control ham. Myoglobin values increased with the second injection ; however, there was no difference between the injected and control hams. Panel flavor and tenderness were not significantly affected by iron injection. The hams injected at 45, 55 or 65 kg. liveweight exhibited a two-toned rusty color at the injection site and a soft appearance. Thus, an injection of iron within 3 days of birth caused very little damage to the ham. Second injections, however, did cause damage and should not be used.

¹ Technical Contribution No. 646 of the S. C. Agricultural Experiment Station published with the approval of the Director.

² Animal Science Department.

³ Agricultural Chemical Services Department.