Inhibition of Heterocyclic Aromatic Amines in Pork Chops Using Complex Marinades with Natural Antioxidants

Five marinades were developed using natural antioxidants. Based on a consumer test of the appearance, three marinades were chosen for further investigation: an oregano, an acerola and a Dijon marinade, the Dijon marinade containing acerola, sumac and oregano. A barbecue and a sumac marinade were not included in the further study. In a home use test, consumers barbecued pork chops with the three marinades. Most of the consumers preferred the oregano and the Dijon marinade, while the acerola marinade was less liked. After controlled cooking using both direct and indirect heat to a core temperature of 65°C and 80°C, the content of the heterocyclic aromatic amines (HCA) PhiP, MeIQx, DiMeIQx, Harman and Norharman was analysed. All of the marinades reduced the content of MeIQx and DiMeIQx, although only with indirect heat, while PhiP was reduced using both grilling methods. Surprisingly, in particular the content of Harman—and to a lesser extent Norhaman—was very high in the Dijon-marinated chops. The results demonstrated that it was possible to develop well-liked marinades that can reduce the formation of selected HCAs.