Abstract
In this case study, a scientist is contacted by a friend from a meat processing plant who is looking for a test to determine the sex of the animals that contributed to a particular batch of meat. He needs to know because meat from uncastrated males (boars) imparts an unpleasant odor (boar taint) to pork products, something he wants to avoid. Developed for use in an introductory biology class, the case introduces students to basic genetics concepts, DNA structure, the technique of PCR, genetic databases, and the use of positive and negative controls during scientific investigations. The case could also be used in high school classes, especially as a tool for learning about (or reviewing) the scientific process as it requires students to develop hypotheses, design experiments, and analyze and interpret data.