What carcass defect is associated with long-term stress in animals?

The correct answer is DFD (Dark, Firm, Dry), which is a condition that develops in swine due to long-term stress, particularly as a result of pre-slaughter handling or environmental changes that can negatively impact the animal's well-being. When animals experience prolonged stress, their glycogen levels are affected, leading to inadequate lactic acid production during the conversion of muscle to meat. This process results in a darker pigmentation and a firmer texture, hence the name "Dark, Firm, Dry."

In the case of DFD, the meat retains more moisture than optimal due to the improper biochemical changes, which ultimately affects its quality and shelf life. Understanding this condition is crucial for producers as it directly influences the economic value of the pork they are selling and consumer perception regarding meat quality.

Other conditions listed, like PSE, relate to different stress parameters and are characterized by rapid pH decline, leading to pale and soft meat, while CWD is a neurological disease affecting deer and not applicable to pork quality. The term SDD does not correspond to any recognized meat quality defect in this context. The study of these conditions emphasizes the importance of proper animal handling and management practices to mitigate stress and improve meat quality.