ABSTRACTConflicting claims of the effects of early postmortem electrical stimulation on the temperature and cooling rate of beef were investigated, using an improved method of temperature measurement and a precise alternation of sides receiving the treatment. No stimulation effect on temperature was detected, but a consistent laterality effect was observed, the right loin on average being almost 2°C warmer than the left at 3 hr postmortem regardless of prior unilateral or bilateral stimulation. This temperature difference appears to be a localized phenomenon due to the asymmetric distribution and “tightness” of the kidney fat overlying the interior surface of the central loin