This article explores the potential of meat byproducts to meet the increasing global demand for protein, as well as their nutritional value, the processes needed to ensure their safety and shelf life, and sustainable, economic methods of protein extraction.

The safety of meat continues to be a challenge, mainly due to the ever-increasing line speeds and customer expectations that are approaching zero tolerance toward any irregularities. Listeria-free fresh meat is being requested in the market, and even small pieces of soft plastic can cause major recalls, loss of reputation, and loss of business for meat producers. In this article, the authors present new approaches to addressing well-known and emerging challenges from physical and microbiological risks in the meat industry.