Abstract
The impacts of Lactilactilactobacillus sakei (LS), Pediococcus acidilactici (PA), and Latilactobacillus curvatus (LC) on quality properties, protein and lipid oxidation, and microbial dynamics of pickled pepper rabbit meat during refrigerated storage (4 °C for 1, 3, 5, and 7 days) were investigated. The results showed that the addition of lactic acid bacteria bioprotective agents effectively reduced the pH of pickled pepper rabbit meat, inhibited protein and lipid oxidation, suppressed the growth and proliferation of spoilage bacteria, and maintained favorable textural characteristics. Among the tested strains, Latilactobacillus curvatus exhibited the most significant preservation effects throughout the storage period. On day 7 of storage, the TBARS value of the LC group was 20.60% lower than that of the LS group and 14.68% lower than that of the PA group. Similarly, the total carbonyl content was 12.30% lower than the LS group and 6.21% lower than the PA group, while the total sulfhydryl content was 20.81% and 10.12% higher, respectively. Additionally, the TVB-N value was 11.91% lower than the LS group and 4.37% lower than the PA group. Additionally, the Latilactobacillus curvatus group maintained a lower pH, superior elasticity, chewiness, and cohesiveness, while effectively inhibiting spoilage bacterial growth and proliferation. In conclusion, Latilactobacillus curvatus was the most effective bioprotective agent for preserving the storage characteristics of pickled pepper rabbit meat.