What causes white strip-like substances in meat, and what should be done about it?

Under normal circumstances, the presence of white strip-like substances in meat may be caused by fat marbling, residual foreign bodies, parasitic infections, sebaceous cysts, or tendinitis. Depending on the specific situation, improvements can be achieved through general management, medication, or surgical treatment. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Fat Marbling

Uneven distribution of subcutaneous fat may appear as white, raised streaks, especially in areas with thinner skin such as the waist, abdomen, and thighs. No special treatment is required; maintaining a balanced diet and moderate exercise to enhance skin elasticity is sufficient.

2. Residual Foreign Bodies

When the skin is injured, foreign materials such as fibers or thread fragments may enter the subcutaneous tissue and become encapsulated over time, forming white, cord-like nodules. After disinfecting with iodophor, a healthcare provider should remove the object using sterile forceps. The wound should be kept dry and clean after the procedure.

3. Parasitic Infection

Consuming undercooked food may lead to infection with pork tapeworm (Taenia solium). Eggs develop into larvae that migrate to muscles, forming white, thread-like cysticerci (Cysticercus cellulosae). Treatment under medical guidance may include oral administration of albendazole tablets, praziquantel tablets, or mebendazole tablets. Maintaining good dietary hygiene during treatment is essential.

4. Sebaceous Cyst

Obstruction of sebaceous gland ducts leads to accumulation of secretions and cyst formation, often presenting with a visible white, linear opening on the surface. Topical treatments prescribed by a doctor may include mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid cream, or clindamycin gel. Recurrent infections may require surgical excision of the cyst.

5. Tendinitis

Chronic tendon strain causes inflammation, local congestion, and edema. The affected tendon may feel thickened and appear as a white, cord-like structure upon palpation. Medications such as celecoxib capsules, diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, or loxoprofen sodium tablets may be taken. In severe cases, tendon release surgery may be necessary, followed by avoidance of excessive physical strain during recovery.

In daily life, attention should be paid to food hygiene—avoid raw or undercooked foods; promptly and properly treat any skin injuries to prevent foreign body entry; warm up adequately before exercising to reduce the risk of tendon injury. If the white, thread-like structures increase in size, cause pain, or are accompanied by fever, seek immediate medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis.