Another meat quality concern is Green Muscle Disease or Deep Pectoral Myopathy
(see Figure 3.11), which is the necrosis of the Pectoralis Minor (tender) muscle of
poultry. Necrotic tenders appear yellowish-green in color. Green Muscle Disease results
from vigorous activity of both major and minor pectoralis muscles, but only the tenders
are afflicted. During contraction, muscles normally swell with increased blood flow to
supply needed oxygen and nutrients. Compared to other muscles, the tenders have a
more rigid muscle cover and are confined to a tight space within the body such that they
can’t expand to accommodate this increased blood flow. The net result of the muscle
being confined and compressed is self strangulation, suffocation, and eventually
necrosis.