We stress that it is of utmost importance that the pH value and temperature are determined at the time when rigor mortis commences. The temperature course before that point is not relevant, provided that the pH is not too high when the temperature reaches 7 C. Preliminary tests (under preparation) have shown that it is possible to lower the temperature temporarily to low values (3.5 C) provided that the temperature is increased to 10 C for the time when rigor begins, i.e., in normal meat at pH values 5.7–5.8 without decreasing tenderness.