ABSTRACTA procedure was developed to accurately measure the contraction of excised Pectoralis major muscles (along the longitudinal axis) from broilers during the development of rigor. A linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) and computer equipment were used to continuously monitor contraction through the course of rigor. A holding tank was designed and constructed and in conjunction with the LVDT allowed cooling of the muscle while contraction was being monitored over a predetermined time period. Applying the procedure to broiler Pectoralis major muscles, the results indicated much less variation using the LVDT in comparison with a technique of manual measurement; however, mean values were not significantly different.
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