In general, the prediction equations for FA composition were more
accurate when NIR spectra were collected on intact warm than cold
subcutaneous fat samples. This approach would potentially allow NIR
spectra to be collected immediately after slaughter when fat is still
warm, a very important aspect when considering on-line use of this
technology in the abattoir. The NIRS equipment used in this study was a
benchtop unit not configured for on-line testing; hence, further studies
with equipment provided with a fibre-optic probe are required to assess
the on-line implementation of NIR spectroscopy in the abattoir. Under
practical conditions where fat samples are scanned fresh the predictability
of NIRS predictions are expected to be higher than those using fat