What is defined as the fat found within the muscle of meat, contributing to its flavor and tenderness?

Intramuscular fat is the specific type of fat located within the muscle fibers of meat, and it plays a crucial role in enhancing both flavor and tenderness. This fat is often referred to as marbling; it appears as small streaks or flecks of fat within the lean muscle tissue. When meat is cooked, intramuscular fat melts, imparting rich flavors and creating a juiciness that elevates the overall eating experience. It is particularly prized in various cuts of beef, as higher levels of marbling typically lead to better quality and taste.

Other types of fat, such as subcutaneous fat, which lies just beneath the skin; visceral fat, found around the internal organs; and intermuscular fat, which is located between muscles, do not directly enhance the flavor and tenderness in the same way that intramuscular fat does. While all types of fat can contribute to the animal’s overall carcass quality, it is the intramuscular fat that is integral to the sensory attributes of meat.