Abstract
The study evaluated the influence of two air-spray chilling systems on the water absorption, cooling time, and the impact of both on the quality traits of the turkey meat. In system A (air/water spray + air) a weight loss of 1.78% (w/w) occurred, while in system B (continuous air/water spray) turkey meat showed a weight gain of 1.82 (w/w). The cooling time in system B was significantly (P < 0.05) shorter. Water retention capacity, the color, and the sarcomere length of turkey meat are significantly influenced (P < 0.05) by the air chilling system. Turkey meat refrigerated in system B showed smaller structural changes. Air chilling with water spray in a continuous process promotes carcass weight gain and reduces processing time, in addition to less impact on the quality traits of turkey meat.