Physico-chemical and sensory characterization of sliced Iberian chorizo from raw material of three commercial categories and stability during refrigerated storage packaged under vacuum and modified atmospheres.

Physico-chemical and sensory analysis of Iberian chorizo manufactured from three commercial categories raw material compiled in the current Spanish Iberian Quality standard (Black, Red; 100% Iberian and 50% Iberian × Duroc pigs, respectively, under Montanera, and White; 50% Iberian × Duroc pigs commercially fed) and packed under vacuum and modified atmosphere (MAP) were carried out, in order to address the influence of the genotype and animal production system and packaging on quality parameters, as well as the stability of these throughout long-term storage. Montanera categories showed higher values of γ-tocopherol, mono- and poly-unsaturated fatty acids, greater scores of flavour and taste and higher lipid oxidation during the whole storage. MAP preserved better colour, especially redness and lipid oxidative status. Iberian chorizo could attain a differentiated quality because of physico-chemical and sensorial characteristics derived from the Montanera that would be adequate preserved in both vacuum and MAP throughout long-term storage.