» :: Partial replacement of nitrite by annatto as a colour additive in sausage
a b s t r a c t
For decreasing the use of nitrite in sausage in industrial conditions, annatto (Bixa orellana L.) powder (1%
norbixin) was used in two different formulations of sausage (with 55% and 70% of meat) as a replacement
for 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100% nitrite. Then the qualitative characteristics of the samples such as colour
(L*, a* and b*), microbial contamination and sensory tests (flavour and odour) were compared with the
control (without annatto and with 100% nitrite) after 2, 10, 20 and 30 days from production and under
the refrigerated condition. The Statistical comparison showed that in both formulations of sausage, the
sample containing 60% annatto was the best sample for its colour (for higher a* and lower b*); yet, this
sample also did not show any significant differences from the control for microbial contamination and
sensory properties.
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