Vol. 9, Special Issue 9 (2020)

Author(s):
Harikrishnan S and Vishnu S Shaji

Abstract:
An incidence of green coloured broiler meat was reported from Nadakkavu meat market of Calicut district. The owner suspected that it was due to spoilage and informed Department of Food Safety, Kozhikkode. The case was forwarded to Department of Poultry Science, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences Mannuthy. Up on investigation, the meat was brought afresh and was obtained from the wet market and chance of any spoilage was ruled out. The unusual green colour in the chicken meat was identified as the condition called Green Muscle Disease. Green muscle disease is becoming common in broiler industry especially in broilers grown to heavier body weights. It is characterized by necrosis and atrophy of the breast tenders and is believed to be associated with increased bird activity and excessive wing flapping. It is a challenge to the industry because it does not affect the health of the bird and often goes unnoticed until birds are deboned after processing. Management practices that lessen or minimize wing flapping in the flock appear to be the best defense against the Green Muscle Disease.