What is the color of mutton lean meat?

Mutton lean meat is characterized by its dark or bright red color, which is attributed to the higher myoglobin content in the muscle tissue of older sheep compared to younger animals. Myoglobin is a protein that carries oxygen in muscle cells, and its concentration affects the overall color of the meat. As sheep age, the levels of myoglobin increase, resulting in the deeper red hue typical of mutton.

In contrast, other meats have different colors due to varying myoglobin levels and muscle development. For example, beef tends to have a cherry red color when fresh, while younger lamb can present a pale pink due to lower myoglobin. Understanding these distinctions in meat color is essential for identifying the type of meat and its age, which can, in turn, impact flavor and cooking methods.