Chromium may have an antioxidant role, possibly also benefitting meat quality. A
protective effect of chromium against lipid peroxidation in rats and mice has been
suggested (Tezuka et al., 1991) along with protecting ascorbate (vitamin C) from oxidative
destruction in guinea pigs (Seaborn et al., 1994). Furthermore, interest in the possible
toxicological effects of cholesterol oxidation products has increased in a variety of
processed foods, including meat (Buckley et al, 1995). Supplemental chromium has
decreased circulating blood levels of cholesterol in humans, laboratory animals and farm
animals fed chromium-deficient diets. Cholesterol also serves as a precursor for cortisol
synthesis.