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The objective was to analyze the carcasses of bovine from employer and non-employer livestock systems. Slaughter data was collected in slaughterhouse located in the central part of the State of Rio Grande do Sul during four years. A total of 437,332 and 49,029 carcasses from employers' and non-employers' properties were evaluated, respectively. The differentiation between the livestock models was made based on the existence or not of employees. Non-employer farmers declared themselves non-employers, while employers presented documentation and regularity of employees on the farms. Data were submitted to analysis of variance to assess the effect between the production systems and their interactions with sex, months, and years, with the batch being the experimental unit. The cold carcass weight in males and females differed between the production systems, being the employer system higher than the non-employer system. At maturity, carcasses from the employer system were lower than carcasses marketed by non-employer system. The thickness of subcutaneous fat was lower in carcasses from non-employer system than in carcasses employer systems, with less use of the same the quality programs. Except for January, cold carcass weight differed (P<0.05) during the rest of the year between production systems. The finishing grade only differ (P<0.05) in the months of February and December, being higher for the employer system. The employer system produces carcasses with better quality and greater quantity of kilograms than the non-employer system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Two investigations were developed. The first experiment was to determine the metabolizability of Moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaf meal. 120 slow-growing, 21-day-old chickens were used. The experimental period was seven days, four for adaptation to diets and three for collection of excreta. The Moringa leaf presented values for apparent metabolizability coefficients of dry matter, crude protein, crude energy and neutral detergent fiber, as well as apparent metabolizable energy and corrected metabolizable energy for a nitrogen balance, of 49.77%, 44.48%, 46.26% and 53.02%, and 2,334 kcal/kg, 2,159 kcal/kg respectively. The second experiment was to evaluate the inclusion of Moringa leaf meal in the diets of two hundred and forty slow-growing chickens from one to 80 days of age on performance, carcass characteristics, biometrics of digestive organs and meat color. The experimental design was completely randomized with four treatments (0.75%; 1.50%; 2.25% and 3.00% inclusion of the Moringa leaf), six repetitions and ten chickens per experimental unit; the inclusion levels of the Moringa leaf did not influence (p> 0.05) feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion, final weight at 30, 60 and 80 days, carcass, noble cut yields and meat color. The inclusion of Moringa leaf meal can be used up to the 3% level in slow-growing chicken diets, without affecting the productive performance of these animals.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different pre-slaughter fasting times on live weight and meat quality of broiler chickens slaughtered at 35 and 42 days of age. Treatments consisted of four, eight, 12, and 16 hours of total fasting before slaughter. Eight birds of each sex were slaughtered at each time of fasting. Regression analysis indicated that the longer the fasting time, the greater the weight reduction in both males and females (35/42 days). However, analysis of variance highlighted no weight reduction (P>0.05) for four, eight, and 12 hours of fasting in males slaughtered at 35 and 42 days of age and in females at 35 days. However, females slaughtered at 42 days of age showed no differences (P>0.05) for four and eight hours of fasting. After 16 hours of fasting, both males and females slaughtered at 35 and 42 days of age showed higher weight reductions (P0.05) were observed for male and female birds of 35 and 42 days of age, respectively. Regarding meat quality, no changes (P>0.05) were found for CL and WHC in males and females at 35 and 42 days of age, respectively.

Diets supplemented with halquinol and/or nanoencapsulated essential oils (N-EOs) have shown positive effects on the productive parameters of broiler chickens. However, there is limited comparative evidence between these two products. This study aimed to investigate and compare the efficacy of N-EOs blends with halquinol as dietary supplements for broiler chickens. A total of 500 male Cobb 500 broiler chickens were randomly assigned to five dietary groups. The control group received a conventional diet supplemented with halquinol (60%), while the experimental groups received supplementation with N-EOs blends derived from soursop (S), lemon (L), and eucalyptus (E) in different proportions: T1 (S:33.33%, L:33.33%, E:33.33%), T2 (S:50%, L:25%, E:25%), T3 (S:25%, L:50%, E:25%), and T4 (S:25%, L:25%, E:50%). The trial lasted for 42 days. The results showed that the T1 and T4 groups obtained the highest values (p < 0.05) for average daily growth rate and breast yield. The feed conversion ratio was significantly lower in groups T1 and T4 (p < 0.05). All N-EOs supplemented groups exhibited higher carcass yield (p < 0.05). At day 42, the T1 group displayed increased villus height and villus height/crypt depth ratio in the duodenum (p < 0.01), while all experimental groups showed increased villus width in the jejunum and ileum (p < 0.05). Texture analysis revealed that N-EOs-treated groups had texture values similar to halquinol, except for the T1 group, which significantly increased hardness (p < 0.05). Bromatological analysis showed that the T4 group significantly improved the percentage of crude protein, fat, and ash compared to the halquinol-supplemented group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the T1 and T4 groups exhibited lower levels of lipid peroxidation (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation with N-EOs holds promise as a potential alternative to halquinol, with the added advantage of improved oxidative stability.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the addition of different levels of capsaicin in the diet of female turkeys has beneficial effects on growth performance and the antioxidant and oxidant status in serum and meat. A total of 150 female turkeys were distributed in a completely randomized design with three treatments with five replicates per treatment and ten birds per experimental unit. Treatments were identified as control (without additive); T400 – basal diet containing 400 mg/kg of pepper extract per kg of feed; and T800 – basal diet supplemented with 800 mg/kg of pepper extract per kg of feed. Growth performance was measured on days 1 and 20 of the experiment. Blood samples were collected at 20 days of the experiment for analysis of the oxidant and antioxidant status, and at 20 days, five birds were euthanized per treatment for the analysis of the oxidant and antioxidant status of the meat. The turkeys fed diet supplemented with capsaicin had lower feed intake and better feed:gain ratio. Turkeys in the T800 treatment showed a reduction in serum levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thiobarbituric acid, and this same effect was observed for ROS in their breast meat. Capsaicin supplementation improves feed conversion and reduces feed intake without altering weight gain in female turkeys. Furthermore, the addition of 800 g/ton reduces lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation in the serum and reduces protein oxidation in broiler turkey meat.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of stress caused by different pre-slaughter protocols on physicochemical, sensory and microbiological quality of tambaqui meat stored on ice for 49 days. A total of 144 Tambaqui fish were used. The experimental design was completely randomized constituted by six treatments related to the pre-slaughter protocols (slaughter right after harvesting, after 3h transport, and after 6h, 12h, 24h or 44h recovery period after transport). After confirming the death, fish were placed in styrofoam boxes with ice. Every seven days, three fish from each treatment were collected from the styrofoam boxes for physical, chemical, sensory and microbiological analyzes. Data collected were subjected to ANOVA and, subsequently, to the Tukey test at 0.01 and 0.05. Fish slaughtered under stress right after harvesting and transport presented fillets with higher bacterial growth rates, and worst values of pH, NBVT and TBARS, in addition to producing fillets with a darker color than other treatments in the first 21 days. These samples were considered unsuitable for consumption after 42 days stored on ice. Fish submitted to recovery periods after transport presented better meat quality, where fillets presented more luminous and less red color after 21 days stored on ice, as well as lower microbiological growth rates, and better values of pH, NBVT and TBARS. Our results proved that the use of recovery periods after transport and before the slaughter improves tambaqui meat quality and increases its shelf life when stored on ice up to 49 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Cassava by-products are abundant and largely unused in familiy agro-industries in the Amazon region, where slow-growing broilers are commonly raised. Thus the incorporation of cassava by-products in broiler feed may provide starch enrichment for better zootechnical performance. We evaluated the use of cassava residues instead of corn in the diet of slow-growing broilers. We determined the chemical composition of cassava scrapings (CS) and cassava starch residue (CSR), and tested the digestibility of the residues in 192 broilers and three treatments: inclusion of 30 g kg-1 CS or CSR and a control without residue, with eight replicates of eight broilers each. Digestibility was assessed through collection of total excreta from 19 to 22 days of age. Apparent and corrected metabolizable energy, and apparent digestibility coefficients of dry matter, crude protein and crude energy were significantly higher for CSR than CS. Therefore, only CSR was used in a performance experiment using 324 broilers 30 to 90 days old, distributed in four treatments (0; 6.8; 13.4 and 20 g kg-1 CSR in feed) with nine replicates of nine broilers each. There was no significant difference among treatments in weight gain, feed intake, yield of carcass, breast and viscera, meat color, luminosity, pH, shear force, cooking-weight loss and drip loss. As there was a significant reduction in feed conversion and thigh and drumstick yield for 20 g kg-1, we suggest the incorporation of CSR up to 13.4 g kg-1.

Beef production is of great importance worldwide and, in Brazil, it plays a fundamental role in the country's economy, making it one of the largest producers, consumers and exporters. Meat quality is influenced by several factors, and among these, the occurrence of bruises on carcasses is highlighted and, consequently, losses due to commercial restrictions stands out. Thus, this research aimed to establish the occurrence of bruises in bovine carcasses diverted to the Department of Final Inspection (DIF), with the total condemnation of the carcass, from January 4 to September 15, 2022, in an abattoir under Federal Inspection Service (SIF), located in the State of Espírito Santo, Brazil. A set of 20,864 males and 1,927 females were slaughtered and inspected, totaling 22,791 bovines, of which 172 carcasses were diverted to the DIF, 7 of which were completely condemned (0.031% of the total), resulting in R$ 37,490.10 of economic loss. To avoid the total condemnation of carcasses, effective animal welfare strategies must be implemented, making the Brazilian cattle industry continue to develop and reduce its losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT We aimed to reduce the dimensionality of quantitative traits in pigs applying factor analysis. Quantitative variables were collected, and the factor analysis extracted five factors with biological meaning related to performance, carcass quality, carcass yield, meat quality, and initial pH. These factors were posteriorly used as dependent variable to evaluate the effects of genetic groups (Piau, Duroc, and Pietrain crossbreds), nutritional plans (low, medium and high lysine levels) and sex. An interaction effect between genetic group and sex was observed in performance, in which Duroc crossbred showed the greatest scores. The Pietrain genetic group showed greater values of carcass quality compared with Duroc and Piau, while Piau crossbred pigs had greater values for meat quality compared with Pietrain and Duroc. A greater carcass yield was observed in Pietrain crossbred compared with Duroc pigs. Pigs fed under low lysine level had the lowest performance values. Carcass yield was affected by nutritional plans, in which the medium lysine level showed the greatest values. Meat quality was improved by the nutritional plan with high lysine level compared with the low lysine level. Initial pH showed increased means when using nutritional plans with low and medium lysine levels in diet composition. With regard to sex effects, a greater carcass quality was found for gilts compared with barrows. The reduction of the data dimensionality allowed the joint evaluation of genetic group, nutritional plan, and sex based on new latent variables that represented the original dataset under easier framework based on factors’ biological interpretation.

Twenty-four male Nellore steers (445 ± 31 kg initial body weight) were used to evaluate the effects of different doses of phenolic compounds from a propolis-based product (PBP) on growth performance, carcass traits, and meat fatty acid (FA) profile. The total mixed ration consisted of 470 g kg-1 corn silage and 530 g kg-1 concentrate (dry matter [DM] basis), which were randomly assigned to one of three treatments: control (CON, without phenolic compounds from the propolis extract), PBP1 (225 mg of phenolic compounds g-1 of propolis dry extract), and PBP2 (300 mg of phenolic compounds g-1 of propolis dry extract). The animals were fed in a feedlot for 84 days and presented an average final body weight (FBW) of 542 kg. Dietary addition of phenolic compounds had no overall effect on growth performance. Mean values for dry matter intake, average daily gain and feed conversion ratio were 9.99 kg d-1, 1.14 kg d-1 and 8.82 kg DM kg gain-1, respectively. Hot carcass weight and hot carcass yield had average values of 308 kg and 56.8%, respectively. In addition, carcass traits did not change after PBPs were added to the diet, except for the ribeye area, which was higher for PBP2 (21.5 cm2 100 kg-1) than for PBP1 (18.6 cm2 100 kg-1). Dietary addition of PBPs maintained redness better than the controls after 9 days in the refrigerator; no major changes were observed in the meat FA profile after the addition of PBPs to the diet. These results suggest that phenolic compounds present in propolis (300 mg g-1) have positive effects on meat color and improve the sensory quality of meat.

Quality meat is intrinsically related to animal welfare, which in turn depends on proper management that minimizes stress during the various pre-slaughter stages. Thus, the central objective of the present study was to follow the cattle before shipment for slaughter and to verify the occurrence of hematomas and bruises on the carcasses of these animals. The study was conducted in a farm located in Miranda, in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), and in a slaughterhouse under Federal Inspection in Anastácio-MS. Of the 100 slaughtered animals, 52 (52%) showed bruising on the carcass. The occurrence of hematomas in the half carcasses was higher in the hindquarter (66,19%) compared to the forequarter (33,81%). In the hindquarter, lesions were found in the region of the flank and in the region of the quarter. As for the forequarter, injuries were found in the rib region and in the neck board region. There is a need to implement the concept of welfare within the pre-slaughter handling practices and farm facilities, ensuring the quality of life of the animals, minimizing losses from injuries, and obtaining a meat of good microbiological, physicochemical, and visual quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to determine the effect of birth weight on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of immunocastrated male pigs. Seventy-two boars were assigned to three birth weight categories (BiW): light BiW pigs (LP: 0.98±0.083 kg BW; n = 24), normal BiW pigs (NP: 1.42±0.067 kg BW; n = 24), and heavy BiW pigs (HP: 1.85±0.096 kg BW; n = 24). For treatment design, we considered a weight range of two standard deviations (SD) in relation to the average population body weight (from 0.785 to 2.155 kg BW−1). The animals were housed in six pens with 12 animals per pen, with ad libitum access to water and feed throughout the study. In the growing and finishing phases, pigs were immunocastrated with two doses of vaccine at 112 and 161 days of age. The three BiW categories were different up to departure from the nursery (70 days). After this period, there was no difference between NP and HP in terms of BiW. Measurements showed that a low BiW reduced the loin eye area (9.4%), longissimus thoracis muscle depth (7.6%), and meat:fat ratio (21.6%). Backfat thickness (21.5%) and fat area (11.8%) were higher in LP as compared with the NP and HP categories. Light BiW pigs presented a lower weight steak (7.0%) and belly + rib (8.6%) compared with NP and HP, but did not differ within the LP group. Light BiW pigs required a greater lodging time (14 days), generating higher accumulated feed intake to reach the same slaughter BiW as the other categories. Growth performance and carcass characteristics are influenced by the birth weight (BiW) category. Light BiW pigs require more time and feed intake to reach the same slaughter weight. Birth weight has positive effects on meat quality and weight of commercial cuts.

ABSTRACT We conducted an experiment to evaluate the effect of a polyherbal additive with metabolites such as antioxidants, vitamins, and small hydrolysable tannoids oils on productive parameters and blood metabolites in finishing lambs. Forty male Hampshire × Suffolk lambs (23.79±2.24 kg) were used in a completely randomized experimental design. Treatments consisted of dietary inclusion of a polyherbal additive based on Emblica officinalis and Ocimum sanctum at 0, 5, 10, and 15 g/kg dry matter for 60 d. There were no effects on daily gain, dry matter intake, feed conversion, back fat thickness, and Longissimus dorsi area; however, hot carcass dressing improved linearly as the level of herbal additive supplementation was increased. The antioxidants of the polyherbal additive linearly inhibited lipid oxidation of the meat (24 h; day 10) and improved its water-holding capacity (24 h). Meat lightness after 1 d was reduced linearly, but no changes were detected in other color parameters. Metabolites (glucose, urea, cholesterol) related to energy or protein metabolism were not affected by the herbal additive. Lymphocytes and basophiles were reduced linearly whereas monocytes and segmented neutrophils increased linearly for polyherbal additive. The inclusion of the polyherbal additive does not improve daily gain or feed efficiency in finishing lambs but improves the carcass dressing and antioxidant capacity of the meat.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of live yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii) on the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the shoulder and loin of Boer x Saanen crossbred goat kids. Twenty-seven carcasses were used, 13 females and 14 uncastrated males with an average age of 192 days, weighing 30.76 kg, distributed in a completely randomised design using a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement (diet and sex). The yeast was added to the feed before pelletising in a proportion of 0.050 g/kg dry matter (DM). When the goats reached an average of 30 kg of live weight, they were slaughtered. No effects of live yeast on quantitative carcass and qualitative characteristics of shoulder and loin were observed. Regarding sex, males had higher slaughter weights (31.73 kg), empty carcass weight (27.98 kg), hot carcass weight (14.39 kg), cold carcass weight (14.22 kg), higher carcass compactness index (0.28 kg/cm), lower slaughter age (176 days) and lower cooling loss (1.20%). For the cut yields, females presented a higher loin yield (11.55%) and males presented a higher neck yield (6.84%). In the shoulder, males presented a higher proportion of bone (18.58%), while females presented a higher proportion of fat (17.09%) and muscle:bone (3.47). In the loin, females showed higher fat deposition (19.54%) in relation to males. The inclusion of yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii in the crossbred goat kids’ diet did not generate differences in the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the shoulder and loin.

This study evaluated the fatty acid composition and qualitative characteristics of meat from lambs feed in feedlot with increasing levels of canola grain. Meat obtained from 27 lambs fed 0, 8 and 16% inclusion of canola grain were analyzed. There was a reduction in the content of saturated fatty acids (SFA): lauric, heptadecanoic, and stearic; and unsaturated fatty acids (UFA): palmitoleic, oleic, and eicosatrienoic, with the increasing levels of canola grain. There was a linear reduction for the ω3 acid and the ω3: ω6 ratio, while the ω6: ω3 ratio increased. But the values observed for this ratio (ω6: ω3) were lower than 4, which is considered a satisfactory value. There was a slight increase (~2%) for the thrombogenicity index and atherogenicity index with the inclusion of canola grain. There was a reduction in the hypocholesterolemic: hypercholesterolemic ratio, with mean values of 2.09 for the diet with 0% inclusion, and 2.06 for 8 and 16% inclusion of canola. Although the inclusion of canola grain for lambs decreased the content of some UFA, reflecting alterations in the correlated nutritional properties, there is a reduction of SFA. The results for instrumental analysis, proximate composition, and sensory acceptance of the lamb meat were similar among the treatments.

ABSTRACT With the objective of identifying the concerns, attitudes, and opinions of meat buyers and their relationship with their choice of place of purchase (supermarkets, free fair, or butchers), 381 consumers in the city of Garanhuns, Brazil, were interviewed. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and discriminant analysis, complemented by stepwise regression, Wilks’ Lambda test, and Fisher’s linear test. Most of the respondents expressed that inadequate commercialization of meat occurred in free fairs, and the lack of hygiene and the fact that meat was exposed in the environment without refrigeration were the main preoccupations. They also reported that meat consumption without inspection could lead to disease transmission, with pork being considered the most dangerous. Based on the theory of planned behavior, buyers agreed that their attitudes toward the purchase of meat (concern with food safety, price, animal welfare, environment, and slave labor) influenced their purchasing decisions. Regarding the subjective norms, the results indicated that purchase intention could be modulated by the opinion and judgment that other people exercise on the buyer’s choice decision. Regarding perceived control, the respondents said that they were confused at the time of purchase and got irritated after making a purchase that did not satisfy their desires. The factors that differentiated consumers who prefer to buy meat in supermarkets from those who prefer butchers and free fairs are mainly the price of the product, custom/tradition, customer service, and hygiene of the establishment. Buyers who have a lower level of schooling and live in rural areas also tended to buy meat in free fairs.

Aqui nós avaliamos a viabilidade da inclusão de glicerina purificada em dietas balanceadas para frangos de corte de 8 a 42 dias de idade. Para tanto, foram utilizados 160 fios de 8 dias de idade da linhagem Cobb 500®, distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado (CRD) com quatro tratamentos (0, 2, 4 e 6% de inclusão de glicerina purificada) e quatro repetições. de dez pássaros. Foram avaliados o consumo de ração, ganho de peso, rotação alimentar, peso final, biometria de coração, fígado, moela e intestino delgado, rendimento de carcaça, cortes especiais, coxa e sobrecoxa. de proteína e gordura. no músculo do peito.Os níveis de inclusão de glicerina purificaram nas dietas influenciaram (p 0,05) sem consumo de ração (FI ). The same form, not much effect (p> 0. 05) nos income de carcaça e cortes especiais. Os níveis de inclusão de glicerina não são influenciados (p> 0,05) o peso relativo da moela, nem o peso e a duração do intestino delgado. No entanto, os níveis de inclusão de glicerina aumentaram os pesos do coração e do fígado (p 0,05) os valores de leveza (L *), vermelhidão (a *), amarelecimento (b *), pH ou proteína, mas aumentaram (p 0,05) os valores de leveza (L *), vermelhidão (a *), amarelecimento (b *), pH ou proteína, mas aumentaram (p 0,05) os valores de leveza (L *), vermelhidão (a *), amarelecimento (b *), pH ou proteína, mas aumentaram (p

ABSTRACT: In Brazil, humane slaughter regulation is in use since 2000; however it is not applied to fish. This paper studied parameters for electrical stunning using direct current waveform in South American catfish (Rhamdia quelen) and its subsequent effects on muscular pH and rigor mortis. Seventy fish were allocated into two groups. In group 125, fish were stunned using 125 Volts (V), 30 Hz, duty cycle of 90% and 1.3 Amp (A) applied for 30 s; in group 400, fish were stunned with 400 V, 30 Hz, duty cycle of 27%, 0.9 A, for 30 s. Unconsciousness time was determined through behavioural assessment. After slaughter, ten fish from each group were refrigerated for both measurements muscular pH and rigor mortis index (RMI) at 0, 3, 6, 24, 72 and 120 h. In 125, 14.4% (5/35) of fish were not effectively stunned, in contrast with 400 in which 100% of fish (35/35) were effectively stunned. The unconsciousness duration was higher in 400 group (87.7±16.1 s) in contrast with group 125 (66.6 ± 16.1 s). Until 6 h post mortem ninety percent of fish reached maximum rigor mortis (RMI=100%).

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the inclusion of vegetable oils in goat kid diets on performance, carcass traits, and meat composition, quality, and fatty acid profile. Forty-eight Anglo Nubian kids were evaluated in a completely randomized experimental design with four treatments, namely, control diet and diets including 2.5% canola, sunflower, or soybean oils. The animals were slaughtered at 30 kg live weight and performance, carcass and meat quality, centesimal composition, and fatty acid profile were evaluated. The treatments did not influence carcass yield or meat color. Among the saturated fatty acids, only caprylic, palmitic, and heptadecanoic acids differed among the treatments, whereas total saturated fatty acids decreased in the sunflower oil treatment. Monounsaturated fatty acids were not influenced by lipid supplementation. Among the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), linoleic acid was highest in the sunflower oil-treated group. Total PUFA were higher for the soybean oil-supplemented group, but similar to that achieved with sunflower oil. The highest omega-6 content was obtained with dietary inclusion of sunflower oil, whereas conjugated linoleic acid, atherogenicity index, and hypocholesterolemic:hypocholesterolemic ratio improved with the inclusion of sunflower and soybean oils. Supplementation with vegetable oils improves the fatty acid profile of kid meat without affecting animal performance. Better results are obtained with sunflower and soybean oils; therefore, it is up to the producer to choose the diet according to its cost.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance, carcass, meat and economic viability characteristics of pigs fed Brazilian coproducts of corn ethanol production. A total of 40 finishing pigs were subjected to four levels of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS; 0, 100, 200, or 300 g kg-1) for 28 days, and body weight, daily feed intake, daily weight gain and feed conversion were measured. After slaughter, the carcass yield, fat thickness, loin eye area, the depth and perimeter of the loin eye, and the pH and temperature at 45 min and 24 h post-mortem, along with the drip loss and color of the Longissimus lumborum were evaluated. The economic viability of the diets was calculated. The inclusion of DDGS showed a quadratic effect on daily feed intake over 0-14 days. Pigs fed with 300 g kg -1 of DDGS showed worse feed conversion than those fed the control diet over 0-7, 0-14 and 0-21 days. The a* color parameter of the meat decreased linearly with increasing DDGS concentration but the other carcass and meat characteristics were not affected. Inclusion of 184.1 g kg -1 of DDGS showed the best economic viability, considering the cost of weight gain. DDGS may be included in pig diets up to 200 g kg -1 without affecting the performance or carcass and meat characteristics, while 300 g kg -1 compromises feed conversion.

ABSTRACT Myoglobin (Mb) is a sarcoplasmic heme protein present in muscle cells, which acts as a short–term oxygen (O2) reserve in the muscle tissue. After slaughtering and exsanguination, Mb is the major pigment that provides the red color in meat. The concentration of Mb together with its redox state are two pivotal factors that determine meat color. The elevated pH of dark–cutting beef can affect both physical and biochemical properties resulting in decreased oxygenation. The darkening observed in high ultimate pH (pHu) beef concerns meat processors as color is the initial attribute that impacts on the purchase. Thus, any atypical meat color (i.e., loss of brightness) reduces consumer interest in the product. Several studies have demonstrated that immunological castration is effective in preventing both aggressive behavior and undesirable dark–cutting of bull meat. However, little information is available on the effects of processing techniques that limit the oxidation of ferrous iron (Fe2+), Mb or promote metmyoglobin (MMb) reduction in dark–cutting beef. Because of the importance of color to fresh beef marketability, this review aimed at overviewing the significance of pHu in beef color and color stability and to discuss new alternatives for improving and assessing the beef color of dark–cutting beef, especially in Nellore bulls and their crossbreds, which are widely used in beef cattle production in Brazil.

ABSTRACT We investigated the ability to predict production performance in Iberian pigs in an extensive production system from measurements of feed efficiency measured intensively. The second objective of this work was to study the relationship between feed efficiency and meat quality (composition, juiciness, tenderness, color, and subcutaneous fatty acid composition) and if cooked and cured quality properties can be predicted by properties in fresh meat. Thirty Iberian sows received successively a restricted diet of concentrate (P1concentrate) and acorns (P2acorn) intensively and an ad libitum diet of acorns supplemented with a restricted amount of concentrate (P3montanera) extensively. Pigs that were more feed efficient on concentrate were less feed efficient on acorns and had higher body weight gain during the montanera . Improved feed efficiency on acorns reduced the concentration of α-linolenic and linoleic fatty acid composition of subcutaneous fat. Faster body weight gain in montanera resulted in a desirable reduction in cooking loss and a reduction in palmitic acid content in subcutaneous fat, and a potentially undesirable reduction in meat redness. Tenderness in cooked or cured loin was not significantly related to tenderness in the raw product. Cooking loss was positively related to purge and centrifugal drip loss and to color coordinates a*24 and b*24 in raw samples. We conclude that feed efficiency and body weight gain may be improved in the traditional Iberian production system, with a positive effect on cooking loss but potentially resulting in paler meat.

ABSTRACT This study evaluated different crosses for sustainable beef production in the Meio-Norte, Brazil. Thirty-four cattle [seven Curraleiro Pé-duro (CPD), six Nellore (NEL), seven F 1 ( ½ NEL + ½ CPD ), seven F 2 A ( ¼ CPD + ¼ NEL + ½ Angus ), and seven F 2 S ( ¼ CPD + ¼ NEL + ½ Senepol )] were evaluated on natural pastures in the states of Piauí and Maranhão. The animals were weighed at birth (BW); weaning (WW); 12 (W12), 18 (W18), and 24 months (W24); and slaughter (SW). The morphometric measurements of rump height (RH), withers height (WH), body length (BW), and heart girth (HG) were assessed. Hot carcass weight (HCW), cold carcass weight (CCW), loin-eye area (LEA), backfat thickness (BFT), carcass dressing percentage (DP), water-holding capacity (WHC), cooking loss (CL), shear force (SF), pH, meat color (L*M, a*M, and b*M), and fat color (L*F, a*F, and b*F) were also analyzed. The three-cross animals (F2A and F2S) showed heavier weights from weaning to slaughter as well as higher HCW and CCW. The three-cross cattle produced less methane per kg of meat. The lack of differences between the NEL, F1, F2A, and F2S animals indicates that crossbreeding did not increase their size, which could be detrimental to reproductive efficiency. Loin-eye area, BFT, and DP differed between the genetic groups, with the highest LEA obtained by F2A. Backfat thickness and DP were low in all animals, suggesting a need for increased carcass fatness. Water-holding capacity, CL, SF, pH, a*F, b*F, L*M, and a*M did not differ; therefore, crossbreeding did not affect qualitative or visual aspects of meat and fat. The use of crosses in meat production systems in the Meio-Norte region of Brazil is a viable option to improve sustainability. In this respect, three-cross animals have the best performance.

ABSTRACT: There has been a significant advance in the poultry industry, and new technological and biological processes have accompanied the development of animals and inputs. Alongside the new possibilities for growth, there has been an emergence of new paradigms, including the rise of myopathies among which PSE, DFD, deep pectoral myopathy, oregon disease, acid breast, white stripping, wooden breast and spaghetti meat stand out. They cause considerable damage to the industry, as well as to ride hypotheses for studies in an attempt to better describe them. Researches seek to know about the behavior of proteins and specific protein groups in these anomalies. Groups of proteases are determinant to understand what may be occurring in muscle activity and; consequently, to understand the process in a more detailed way. Therefore, proteolytic systems may be acting on abnormal tissues. Proteases act differently in birds and mammals, but how altered they may be is still unknown. Besides, it is essential to relate the activities of these proteases, measures that indicate technological aspects that are relevant to meat quality standards. These quality standards must be directly associated with the consumption of raw meat in the material destined for processing, regardless of the final product. The important thing is to guarantee information that will lead the industry and consumers that will have, even with the anomaly developed, products that are nutritionally safe . This review discusses the biochemical and technological changes in poultry with pectoral anomalies, and how this affectsmeat quality.

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the effect of fermented soybean meal (FSBM) supplementation on growth performance, meat quality, blood biochemical parameters, and fecal microflora of finishing pigs. Thirty-two crossbred pigs (Duroc × Landrance × Yorkshire) (66-day-old, 67.95±0.25 kg) were randomly allocated to two treatments and fed diets containing soybean meal and FSBM. The average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), feed conversion ratio (FCR), blood biochemical parameters, and meat quality index were measured. At the end of experiment, the fecal microflora of finishing pigs was analyzed with 16S rDNA techniques. Results revealed that pigs fed FSBM had a greater ADG and lower cooking loss relative to control group (basal diets). Compared with the control group, the triglyceride content in the serum of the group fed FSBM increased significantly, and the creatinine content in the serum decreased notably. Fermented soybean meal enhanced the abundance of Bacteroidetes, Prevotellaceae, Bcteroidales, Bacteroidia, but inhibited the growth of Firmicutes, Clostridia, Clostridiales, and Ruminococcaceae in the intestine of pigs. Therefore, we can speculate that FSBM may play an important role in animal production. Dietary FSBM supplementation may be beneficial to some aspects of growth performance and the diversity of fecal microflora in finishing pigs.

Abstract: The objective of this work was to analyze the effects of immunocastration on the performance and carcass quality of steers in the finishing phase, compared with non-castration and surgical castration. Data from ten studies with records of 1,261 male bovines were analyzed. The studies included in the meta-analysis necessarily contained treatments with immunocastration specifically against the gonadotropin-releasing hormone. Each study was considered as a random effect in the statistical model used. The data were tested for homogeneity of variances and residue normality, and then subjected to the analysis of variance. Means were compared by Student’s t-test. Non-castrated steers showed greater daily weight gain, feed efficiency, slaughter and hot carcass weights, and loin eye area, besides lower fat thickness than surgically-castrated animals and the lowest a* and b* meat coloration values. Overall, immunocastrated steers were inferior to the non-castrated ones, but superior to those surgically-castrated. Immunocastrated steers present performance and carcass traits superior to those of surgically-castrated animals, but similar meat quality.

Currently, two defects in poultry breasts termed Wooden Breast (WB) and White Striping (WS) have been reported in slaughterhouses. These defects may be associated with the accelerated growth of the birds, management, density in the aviary, and both weight and age at slaughter. Although the health of the affected birds is not impaired, these myopathies cause carcass condemnation and economic losses to slaughterhouses, since the breasts of these chickens, considered to be prime cuts in the poultry industry, have to be discarded. This paper reports on the economic losses and factors associated with carcass condemnation caused by white striping (WS) and wooden breast (WB) in broilers from a federally inspected slaughterhouse. Twelve flocks, totaling 207,000 slaughtered broilers, were assessed as to weight and age at slaughter, and stocking density and carcass condemnations due to these two myopathies were also evaluated. Economic losses were estimated by the price of poultry breast at the firm level, around U$ 19,12 per kilo, amounting to daily losses of up to U$ 70,632.00, given that approximately 0.8% of the chicken breasts were condemned. Heavier broilers had a larger condemnation rate due to WS and WB, and so did those reared at a smaller density, due probably to their better access to water and feed, which contributed to weight gain and consequent condemnation, resulting in losses that could affect the entire poultry sector.

This study aimed to evaluate the adoption of good manufacturing practices and physico-chemical (pH and temperature) and microbiological parameters (presence of Salmonella spp.) of ground beef sold in butcher shops in Uberlândia, MG. Forty establishments from five regions of the city (eight per region) were analyzed, with good manufacturing practices evaluated through a checklist (A. Buildings and Facilities; B. Equipment, furniture and utensils; and C. Handlers). For physico-chemical and microbiological analysis, 200 g of ground beef was collected. The establishments presented 36.5% of nonconformity regarding the adoption of good manufacturing practices, with external area presenting insalubrity spots and hand washing the main observed issues. Regarding the physico-chemical analysis, 75% of nonconformities were identified among the evaluated butchers, with the presence of Salmonella spp. in meat samples from two of them (5%). It is concluded that there are flaws in the adoption of good manufacturing practices and the quality of the analyzed meat, and adjustments are necessary in order to commercialize a safe food to the consumer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The addition of oils and fats in the diet of broilers is quite common, since these ingredients are good sources of energy. However, these ingredients easily suffer deterioration through lipid oxidation, and the consumption of oxidized foods or ingredients may impair the performance of broilers. In order to evaluate the antioxidant properties of bixin added to the diet of broilers formulated with fresh or oxidized soybean oil and the effect of the oxidized soybean oil on broiler diets, an experiment was carried out with 1000 one-day-old male chicks, Ross 308. The experimental design was completely randomized, arranged in factorial 3 × 2 + 2 positive controls, totalizing eight treatments with five replicates of 25 birds each. The treatments were 1) Basal diet (BD) + fresh soybean oil (FSO); 2) BD + oxidized soybean oil (OSO); 3) BD + FSO + 0.05% bixin; 4) BD + OSO + 0.05% bixin; 5) BD + FSO + 0.10% bixin; 6) BD + OSO + 0.10% bixin; 7) BD + FSO + BHT (positive control 1); and 8) BD + OSO + BHT (positive control 2). Although antioxidant effects have been observed in breast and thigh meat at some times, bixin can not be recommended as a natural alternative to BHT. The inclusion of bixin in broilers diet improved feed conversion ratio and reduced abdominal fat, however, the use of this additive and other carotenoids in the broilers diet requires caution, since the excess may have a negative effect on the quality of the meat, increasing the lipid oxidation due to the pro-oxidant effect, and reducing the shelf-life. The use of degummed oxidized soybean oil impairs feed conversion ratio and increases the deposition of abdominal fat in broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the productive performance and qualitative characteristics of the carcass and meat of confined beef cattle. Twenty-four crossbred steers with initial body weight of 319.3 ± 11.4 kg and age of 11 months were used, distributed in a completely randomized experimental design, with 2 diets and 3 repetitions, in an experimental period 124 days. The diets (Treatments) consisted of a control diet and a diet containing whey. The diets showed a 40:60 roughage: concentrate ratio, containing 13% crude protein and 68% total digestible nutrients, composed of corn silage and concentrate. In the whey diet, 14.78% of the whey diet DM were included. The results showed similarities (p>0.05) in the average daily weight gain (1.42 kg/day), slaughter weights (497±19.94 and 504±21.36 kg), warm carcass weight (279,15±12.54 and 287.77±13.16 kg), hot carcass yield (56.02±0.50 and 56.89±0.50%), subcutaneous fat thickness (5.25±0,92 and 6.50±1.35 mm), carcass temperature (7.17 ± 0.27 and 7.08 ± 0.29 ° C), marbling (8.42 ± 0.99 and 7.58 ± 0.62), and flesh color (L* 38.77±0.82 and 38.43±0.69; a* 21.09±0.58 and 20.02±0.58; b* 12,44±0.35 and 11.45±0.44). Differences were found in DM intake, with values of 9.39±0.15 and 8.40±0.14 kg/animal/day and pH 6.02±0.09 and 6.35±0,10, respectively (p<0.05). Whey inserted in the animals' diet at the inclusion level of 14.79% did not affect the productive performance and meat quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bixin is the main carotenoid present in annatto seed (Bixa orellana). The aim of this study was to evaluate the inclusion of increasing levels of bixin in the broiler diets and their effects on growth performance and meat characteristics. A total of 750 one-day-old Cobb 500 chicks were distributed in a completely randomized design with five treatments, with six replications of twenty-five birds each. Treatments consisted in different levels of bixin in diets (0.0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15%). Were evaluated the parameters of growth performance (weight gain-WG, feed intake-FI, feed conversion ratio-FCR, productive efficiency index-PEI and viability), meat quality (pH, color, drip loss, cooking loss-CL and shear force-SF), cholesterol levels and meat oxidation. The inclusion of 0.25% of bixin resulted in negative effect on WG and PEI. The values of b * (intensity of yellow) increased linearly with the inclusion of bixin. The addition of 0.10% bixin in diet reduced the cooking loss and the addition of 0.15% reduced the shear force. The inclusion of 0.25% of bixin in diet had an antioxidant effect on breast and thigh meat, 10 days after cooking. The addition of bixin in broilers diet did not affect performance and had positive effects on meat quality, in parameters that directly affect the consumer's purchase decision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of the inclusion of vegetable and mixed glycerin in the diet of broiler quail (Coturnix coturnix coturnix) on animal performance, yield of carcass and organs, and physical and sensory characteristics of the meat. A total of 432 quails aged 1-42 days were used in a completely randomized design with a 4×2+1 factorial arrangement (5, 10, 15, and 20% inclusion of vegetable or mixed glycerin, besides one treatment without glycerin) with 4 replicates of 12 birds each. Feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion, yield (carcass, breast, thigh+drumstick, heart, liver, gizzard, and abdominal fat), and physical and sensory characteristics of the meat. The diet containing mixed glycerin resulted in higher feed intake and feed conversion. The yield of carcass, meat cuts, and organs, as well as the sensory characteristics of the meat, did not vary between the treatments. Abdominal fat content and shear strength were higher in birds fed diets containing vegetable glycerin. The tested glycerin and levels do not interfere with weight gain, yield, and sensory quality of the meat. However, weight gain and feed conversion are lower when mixed glycerin is used, although meat tenderness is higher when 15% vegetable glycerin is used.

Assessment of carcass and meat characteristics of Nellore young bulls or dairy crossbred young bulls fed two levels of grass-Convert silage in the rations (400 and 100 g kg-1 of dry matter). Sixteen Nellore young bulls and 16 dual-purpose dairy young bulls (Holstein x Gir and Holstein x Guzerá) with average initial body weight of 378.8±13.8 kg were used. The experimental design was completely randomized with treatments in a 2x2 factorial arrangement. The proportion of silage and the genetic group did not change the percentage of muscle, fat and bone of the carcass. The yield of the primary commercial cuts was not altered by the level of silage. The pistol cut weight was higher in Nellore young bulls compared to dairy crossbred young bulls (125.8 vs. 119.5 kg), while the relative weight of short ribs was higher in dairy crossbreds (11.9 vs. 11.5%). Only the muscle cut of the pistol was altered by silage proportion in the rations, being higher in those with the lowest proportion of grass silage. On the other hand, only the relative weight of flat, rump cap and edible lean trims were altered by genetic group, which were higher in Nellore young bulls. Among the characteristics of the meat, only marbling was significantly changed, being higher in dairy crossbreds fed rations with a lower grass-silage proportion. The genetic group did not alter the other meat characteristics. Nellore young bulls produce carcasses with higher yield of valuable meat cuts in relation to dairy crossbred young bulls.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the carcass and meat traits, and the non-carcass components of crossbred Dorper lambs fed diets with increasing levels of urea (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5% of dry matter – DM). The experimental design was completely randomized with four treatments (urea inclusion levels) and six replicates per treatment. Lambs were fed ad libitum for 56 days and slaughtered at 37.9 ± 5.1 kg of body weight (BW). The weight and yield of carcass before and after cooling were not influenced by urea levels, with average values of 16.9 kg and 44.6% for cold carcass weight and yield. Urea levels did not affect the morphometric measurements, the fat deposition on the carcass, the weight of carcass cuts and the weight of non-carcass components. There was a quadratic effect of urea levels on the loin yield, which may achieve maximum value of 11.31% with the inclusion of 0.84% DM urea in the feed. The pH and the color coordinates L* (brightness), a* (red intensity) and C* (saturation) of the meat also showed quadratic response to the urea levels, where in the minimum value of 5.53 for pH, maximum value of 48.67 for L* and minimum values of 14.04 and 16.21 for a* and C* may be obtained by including 0.53 to 0.70% DM urea in the ration. The inclusion of 0.84% DM urea in the ration is recommended to obtain maximum yield of loin and meat with attractive characteristics to the consumer, which is characterized by high red intensity and brightness. If consumers have preference for lamb meat with a more intense red color, the inclusion of 1.5% DM urea should be considered in the ration formulation.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the tissue composition, quality traits and fatty acid profile of longissimus muscle of lambs fed increasing levels of crude glycerin. Twenty-four intact male lambs were allocated in a completely randomized design with four treatments and six replicates. The treatments consisted of the replacement of corn with 0, 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5% crude glycerin (dry matter basis) in the diet. The animals were slaughtered when they reached a body condition score of 2.5 to 3.0. After cooling the carcasses, the meat was removed for the determination of tissue composition and longissimus muscle for the evaluation of quality characteristics. The different crude glycerin levels did not affect tissue weight or yield, or the qualitative characteristics of longissimus muscle. An increasing linear effect was observed for ether extract. There was a quadratic effect on C17:0 fatty acids, and C18:1 n-9c and C18:3 n-3 fatty acids decreased linearly. A quadratic effect was observed for total unsaturated fatty acids and a linear decreasing effect for n-3 fatty acids. The unsaturated:saturated fatty acid ratio decreased linearly and there was an increasing linear effect on the n6:n3 ratio. Crude glycerin can replace corn without compromising tissue composition and quality traits of longissimus muscle. The inclusion of up to 7.5% crude glycerin (dry matter basis) in the diet for Pantaneiro lambs improves the nutritional aspects of fat.

The goal of this study was evaluate diets (50 or 80% of concentrate) and body biotypes (late or early) on performance, behavior, carcass condition, meat quality, and feed cost estimates in feedlot finishing Guzera beef cattle. Use of concentrates in the diet may improve performance and carcass fat scores in ruminant animals, but Guzera beef cattle may be more efficient in forage conversion, which directly influences the economic viability of the production system. We evaluated 32 non-castrated male Guzera beef cattle at 32±2 months of age. The experimental design was completely randomized with four treatments and six replicates in a 2 × 2 factorial design (2 diets × 2 body biotypes). Initial and final body weights were 459.4±31.2 kg and 566.7±40.8 kg, respectively. There was no change (P > 0.05) in dry matter intake, feed conversion, or daily weight gain when the concentrate in the diet was increased to 80%. Animals fed a diet with 80% of concentrate spent less time (P < 0.05) ruminating (17.8±6.3 vs. 6.3±2.7% of the assessed time). Body biotype did not alter the variables. The rise from 50 to 80% in the proportion of dietary concentrate increased carcass fat, with positive returns in the production process, even given the reduction in rumination, which can lead to poor welfare of animals consuming 80% of dietary concentrate. Body biotype did not affect the variables studied, but it is worth emphasizing that the age at slaughter of these animals probably influenced this result. Thus, selection of the best diet should be based on feeding cost, and in accordance with the cost estimated in this study, the diet with 80% of concentrate is the most suitable for feedlot finished Guzera beef cattle.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to determine the length-weight relationship and mathematical models to predict dressed and fillet weight and yield and fillet composition of wild traíra, Hoplias malabaricus (Bloch, 1794). A total of 80 marketable-sized fish from 292.28 to 2879.57 g and 32.06 to 61.19 cm were used. The length:weight ratio was estimated using the equation: W = a × L b, in which W is body weight (g) and L is length (cm). The models of dressed and fillet weight and yield and body were elaborated using first-order ( y ^ i = β 0 + β 1 x i ) or second-order ( y ^ i = β 0 + β 1 x i + β 1 x i 2 ) linear regression analyses. The value of slope b in the length:weight ratio was 3.3732 and intercept was 0.0029. The prediction equations obtained for dressed weight, fillet weight, dressed yield, fillet yield, fillet gross energy, moisture, crude protein, crude lipid, and ash were, respectively: y ^ = 0.3244 + 0.9373 W, y ^ = 0.7651 + 0.4181 W, y ^ = 939.8015 + 0.0019 W, y ^ = 420.55170 + 0.0064 W, y ^ = 997.9600 + 0.0630 W, y ^ = 810.6500 − 0.0085 W, y ^ = 184.080 − 0.0111 W, y ^ = 3.1131 + 0.0049 W, and y ^ = 10.6110 + 0.0009 W, in which W is the body weight of fish (g). We demonstrated the possibility of elaborating realistic expressions to describe degutted weight, fillet weight, and fillet composition. However, lower mathematical adjustment was observed to estimate realistic prediction of dressed and fillet yield.

ABSTRACT An experiment was carried out to verify the response to the Ca reduction levels of diets with different vitamin D sources on performance, bone mineral deposition, serum concentrations, digestibility, carcass characteristics, and meat quality of broiler chickens in the period from 1 to 42 days reared in thermoneutral environment. A total of 504 male broilers with one day of age and average weight of 43.27±1.08 g were housed in climatic chambers and distributed in a completely randomized design. The study consisted of a 4 × 2 factorial, with four Ca reduction levels (0, 10, 20, and 30%) and two vitamin D sources (2760 IU of D3 or 25-OH-D3). The performance of animals at 21 and 42 days of age was not affected by Ca reduction by up to 30%, regardless of the vitamin source used. Dietary reduction from 10% decreased serum Ca concentrations. The use of vitamin D3 provided a serum P level greater than the 25-OH-D3. Calcium reduction decreased serum 25-OH-D3 levels. No effect of vitamin source or Ca levels on broiler carcass characteristics was observed at 42 days. The vitamin source did not influence meat quality, while Ca reduction of the diet provided lower losses by thawing and cooking and higher initial pH values. The b* color was reduced in diets with lower Ca levels of the diet. Reducing Ca up to 30% does not affect the performance and carcass characteristics, regardless of the vitamin D source used. The quality of broiler meat is improved with the Ca reduction in the diet, but the vitamin used has no effect on such characteristics. We can conclude, based on the results of performance, blood, and bone, that the performance variables are not adequate to determine the actual requirement of Ca, since as it is a priority to maintain performance, bone mineral mobilization occurs, which may compromise the carcass quality of the birds.

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the effects of feeding calcareous marine algae or sodium bicarbonate as rumen buffer on the performance, behaviour, in vitro diet digestibility, and meat quality of beef cattle. A total of 180 Charolaise bullocks (536±38 kg; 14±1 months of age) were divided into two homogeneous groups and fed a diet with a mineral mix containing 40% sodium bicarbonate or 20% calcareous marine algae (CMA) for the entire fattening period (130 days). Of the in vivo and in vitro parameters evaluated, CMA supplementation improved average daily gain and feed conversion ratio and reduced the prevalence of bloat and lameness. Bullocks fed CMA tended to exhibit a calmer behaviour while in the pen. Supplementation with CMA improved rumen pH and in vitro digestion. Meat from bullocks fed CMA showed a lower pH and higher lightness and tenderness. The results suggest that CMA is more effective than sodium bicarbonate in buffering beef cattle, with a positive impact on growth performance, feed efficiency, health, and meat quality.

Abstract: Were evaluated the microbiological and physicochemical characteristics of fresh and aged semimembranosus muscle from 40 uncastrated male Ile de France lambs with 17.15 ± 1.56 kg of initial body weight. Treatments involved fresh and meat aged for 14 days at 4 ºC from lambs receiving four diets, as follows: control; PM - diet with 20% peanut meal replacing soybean meal; G - diet with 25% glycerin replacing corn; and PMG - diet with 10% peanut meal and 12.5% glycerin. The forage:concentrate ratio was 40:60, and corn silage was used as roughage. The diets had similar values of crude protein and metabolizable energy (17.47% and 2.72 Mcal kg/dry matter). A completely randomized design was adopted in a 4×2 factorial arrangement (four diets × fresh and aged meat). Diets and aging did not favor the development of microorganisms in the meat. There was an interaction effect between diets and aging for pH, color, cooking weight loss (CL), and shear force (SF). The fresh meat from animals fed G was lighter compared with the meat from those consuming PM and PMG (lightness of 38.45, 36.26 and 37.88 respectively). Aging increased lightness (37.63 to 40.87), red intensity (15.12 to 15.93), yellow intensity (2.48 to 3.42) and CL (23.84 to 32.59%), reduced pH (5.66 to 5.45), water holding capacity (61.85 to 58.87%) and SF (22.60 to 16.95 N). By-products from biodiesel and peanut production can be used to replace corn and soybean meal in diets for lambs without compromising their meat quality.

Color is an important organoleptic trait of beef that directly influences the acceptability of the product by consumers. Color coordinates and pH were measured in Longissimus muscle of young Nellore bulls with the objective of identifying associations between residual feed intake (RFI) and meat quality. Twenty-eight Nellore bulls, previously evaluated for RFI, finished in a feedlot until reaching the slaughter weight of 480 kg, were used. After slaughter, the half-carcasses were sent to the cooling chamber, with temperature between 0 and 2 ºC, for 24 hours. Initial pH (pre-cooling) was measured in Longissimus muscle before the beginning of cooling process, while final pH (after cooling) was measured in the same muscle after 24 hours of chilling. Muscle color coordinates were recorded with a Minolta CR400 Chroma digital meter set to the L*, a*, b* system (where L* measures relative lightness, a* relative redness and b* relative yellowness), illuminant D65, an observer angle of 2°, aperture size of 8.0 mm and a closed cone. The instrument was calibrated against a white plate. A freshly cut surface of the muscle (between 11th and 12th ribs) was exposed to the air at ambient temperature for 30 min prior to color determination. Three measurements were taken, at different positions, across the face of the Longissimus muscle and the average value was used for analysis. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS, including as fixed effects diet and selection line. Means were compared by the t-test at 5% probability. No significant differences were detected between RFI classes for any of the studied variables. Mean color coordinates of low and high RFI animals were, respectively, L* 37.15±0.60 and 36.48±0.60 (P = 0.4328), a* 17.41±0.65 and 17.49±0.65 (P = 0.9298), and b* 7.13±0.52 and 7.19±0.52 (P = 0.9390). For the initial pH, means were 7.35±0.15 and 7.36±0.15 (P = 0.9729), and for final pH the means were 5.79±0.09 and 6.01±0.09 (P = 0.1079), respectively, for low and high RFI animals. The results indicate that low and high RFI animals had similar meat quality traits, within the acceptable standards for Longissimus muscle. Nellore cattle from different RFI phenotypes have good meat quality traits. It is important to use feed efficiency traits in animal breeding programs.

The objective of this research was to investigate the qualitative aspects of sheep meat, after the submission or not of 20 carcasses to water spray. The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design, with two treatments with ten carcasses each and ten replicates. The carcasses were submitted and not submitted to water sprinkling for 10 consecutive hours in a cold chamber. Instrumental meat quality analyzes were performed on the Longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) muscles, and occurred in two distinct periods, initially within the 24-hour post-mortem period and after 7 months of non-industrial freezing. The pH, meat and subcutaneous fat staining, cooking loss, water retention capacity, water activity, sarcomere length, shear force and body measurements of the carcass were analyzed. In addition to these, subjective color and marbling measurements and microbiological analysis (Escherichia coli) were included. After the analysis, it was observed that sputum carcasses, LTL muscle modified chroma within 24 hours post mortem and tonality after freezing (7 months). In addition, there was an increase in the microbiological count (5.9 x 10¹ and 4.3 x 10² UFC / cm²) and in the refrigerator yield (48.77, 46.28 kg). However, there was greater loss in cooling (4.87, 3.27%). And in for unprosted carcasses, there was a greater decline in pH 2 hours post mortem (pH 6.9) and lower final pH after 24 hours (pH 5.6). However, after freezing there was no significant difference (p<0.05) between treatments. For the other analyzes, no significant difference was found. The use or not of spraying for 10 consecutive hours in ovine carcasses, promotes unwanted changes in the qualitative aspects of the carcass and meat. In this sense, we do not recommend prolonged use (10 hours) of spraying on ovine carcasses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute heat stress may affect the quality of broilers meat, however there are no reports considering thermal conditions commercially available in Brazil. In this way, the present work aimed to fill this gap of industrial relevance. Broilers of commercial strain (Cobb 500, n = 540) were randomly assigned to two thermal conditions: acute heat stress (AHS; 35°C; 75 – 85% relative humidity) and not-heat-stress (NS; 22ºC; 83 ± 6.6% relative humidity), for 2 hours prior to slaughter. The mortality rate for AHS broilers reached 37%, which was greater than 5.2% verified for NS. According to the mean values, the broiler chickens were not totally affected in the parameters of pH24h, lightness (L*), cooking loss, and shear force. However, the distributions of data show great variability in the values of pH24h, L* and water holding capacity (WHC) for AHS broilers. It is suggested that AHS broilers, at severe conditions which result in increased mortality, present breast meat with greater incidence of higher pH24h, and lower lightness and WHC values.

ABSTRACT The current study was conducted to investigate the effects of Mexican oregano essential oil (MOO) extracts from Lippia berlandieri Schauer (LBS) and Poliomintha longiflora Gray (PLG) on performance, blood profiles, carcass variables, and meat composition of broilers at slaugther. A total of 360 one-day-old Ross broilers were randomly distributed into four dietary treatments with six replicate pens per treatment and 15 birds per pen. The dietary treatments were: a basal diet (control), control + 0.40 g of LBS/kg of feed, control + 0.40 g of PLG/kg, and control + 0.40 g of LBS/kg + 0.40 g of PLG/kg. Results showed that linear, quadratic, and cubic effects of days were significant in the performance variables of broilers. The treatments with LBS and PLG maintained the broiler body weight without increasing feed intake and water intake when compared with the control group. Broilers given LBS+PLG and PLG had increased blood leukocytes, lymphocytes, low-density lipoprotein, and hot carcass yields. In meat composition, treatments with PLG and LBS+PLG presented similar breast protein content compared with the control treatment. Supplementation with these two MOO exhibits positive effects on broiler performance, blood profiles, carcass traits, and meat composition. These two MOO may be promising feed supplements as growth promoters and enhancers of meat quality in broiler production.

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the effects of crude glycerin (CG) supplied separately from the other dietary ingredients to goats during the feedlot and in the pre-slaughter lairage on the nutrient intake, performance, behavioral and physiological parameters, carcass characteristics, and meat quality. Twenty-eight uncastrated male goats from a cross between the Boer breed and mixed-breed goats were used in a completely randomized design in a 2 × 2 factorial scheme, consisting of the feedlot with or without CG inclusion in the diets (96.90 g kg-1 DM) and the pre-slaughter lairage, also with or without the ingredient. In the feedlot, goats fed CG had a lower intake of dry matter and nutrients. Crude glycerin intake reduced the weight gain and body weight of goats and increased feed conversion. Weights of carcass and cuts (leg, loin, ribs, and shoulder) were lower when the animals consumed CG in the feedlot. In pre-slaughter lairage, concentrations of cortisol were lower when the animals consumed CG. Characteristics of carcass and meat (pH, color, water holding capacity, cooking loss, and shear force) were not changed by the supply of CG during the pre-slaughter. When supplied during the feedlot period and separately from the other dietary ingredients, CG negatively affected the performance and carcass characteristics of goats without changing meat quality. In the pre-slaughter lairage, CG intake lowers the cortisol level and does not change the behavioral parameters or carcass and meat characteristics of goats.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate performance and carcass and meat characteristics of lambs fed a solution of crude glycerin plus water (100 g kg−1 of dry matter) (GLY) during feedlot and pre-slaughter lairage. Data were analyzed as a 2 × 2 factorial (GLY available or not in feedlot and GLY available or not in the slaughterhouse). We evaluated the following treatments (feedlot/slaughterhouse): GLY/GLY, GLY/water, water/GLY, and water/water (control). Lambs fed a balanced diet for 70 days in the feedlot. Slaughter started 12 h after the animals arrived at the slaughterhouse. Dry matter intake, feed conversion, average daily gain, and body weight of lambs fed GLY were similar to those of control lambs. Lambs receiving GLY ingested more water in the feedlot. At the slaughterhouse, water/GLY animals ingested more glycerin and water than GLY/water animals ingested water. Group GLY/GLY had lower drip loss in carcasses than the group GLY/water. The other carcass and meat characteristics (carcass weight, pH, subcutaneous fat thickness, ribeye area, color, water holding capacity, cooking losses, and shear force) were similar among treatments. Solution of crude glycerin plus water can be used as a dietary ingredient for lambs, since it improves hydration and does not change performance and carcass characteristics. This solution supplied as a pre-slaughter supplement does not improve carcass and meat characteristics.

ABSTRACT: The objective of this research was to examine the effect of subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT) on carcass characteristics and meat quality in 24-month-old British and crossbred British steers finished in feedlot systems. It was assessed using meta-analysis performed on data that was extracted from 46 published studies and comprising a total of 2,695 experimental units. We found that SFT was influenced by and increased linearly with hot carcass weights (HCWs) and cold carcass weights (CCWs) and their yields; moreover, the bone fraction decreased whereas the muscle and fat fractions increased with higher levels of SFT. No significant differences were detected in meat quality variables. Thus, SFT appeared to have a direct influence on HCW, CCW, and the weight and yield of bone, muscle, and fat of castrated steers. A uniform fat thickness level of 6.0 mm SFT was determined to be the standard of quality of carcasses and meat products for consumers.

The objectives of this trial were to evaluate the fatty acid profile, chemical composition, and sensory effects of crude glycerin on the longissimus dorsi muscle of crossbred Boer goat kids. Twenty crossbred Boer goat kids (20.8±2.9 kg of BW at slaughter) were used in a completely randomized block design to determine the effect of partial replacement of corn by crude glycerin on chemical composition, longissimus dorsi muscle fatty acid profile, and sensory characteristics of meat. Kids were penned individually for 51 d and fed an isonitrogenous (140.0±2.0 g.kg-1 CP, DM basis) diet composed of 700 g.kg-1 concentrate and 300 g.kg-1 Tifton (Cynodon sp.) hay. Increasing levels of crude glycerin (80.0 g/100 g glycerol, DM basis) were 0, 40, 80 or 120 g.kg-1. There was no effect on the moisture, protein, or total lipids in the longissimus dorsi; however, the ash content decreased linearly with glycerin addition. Linear decrease for linoleic acid (3.57, 2.84, 3.76, and 2.33) and ω6:ω3 ratio (10.61, 9.71, 7.26, and 7.18 for CG0, CG40, CG80 and CG120, respectively) was observed with crude glycerin inclusion. Saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids were not affected by treatments. In the sensory assessment, crude glycerin changed the toughness, color intensity, and overall appreciation of the longissimus dorsi muscle. The partial replacement of corn by crude glycerin has a low impact on chemical composition and meat fatty acid profile. Based on the overall appreciation, it is recommended to include 80 g.kg-1 crude glycerin in the diet.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition and fatty acid profile of meat from Santa Inês, Dorper × Santa Inês, and undefined-breed lambs finished in a feedlot system according to two forage:concentrate ratios (50:50 and 20:80) in the diet. Overall, 54 non-castrated animals were used (with an average initial weight of 23±1.5 kg at 150 days old) and were slaughtered when they reached 36 kg of live weight or 63 days of confinement. Diets with high concentrate levels favored meat production with higher protein content. Among the saturated fatty acids, only heptadecanoic (C17:0) and arachidic acids (C20:0) differed among the treatments. The amount of oleic acid detected in the meat ranged from 49.2 to 51.9 g/100 g, making this one the most representative fatty acids. Regardless of the diet and genotype, the unsaturated fatty acid and desirable fatty acid levels in the lamb meat characterize it as of satisfactory quality for the consumer market.

The present study aimed to analyze the chromium content in beef using two digestion methods. There were used samples from 24 18-month-old male cattle, and twelve of them were supplemented and twelve were not supplemented with chromium chelate. These samples were evaluated by atomic absorption spectroscopy, previously submitted to digestion method using nitric acid (65%) with hydrogen peroxide (35%) and to digestion method, using solution of nitric perchloric acid in the proportion 3:1. Immediately after the slaughter, the carcasses were sent to sanitary maturation. After 24 hours, samples between 12th and 13th rib in the muscle Longissimus Thoracis were taken. For evaluation, it was used completely randomized design (Die) and analysis of variance (ANOVA) at 5% of significance level. The results didn't evidenced any significant difference (p>0,05) between the (cromo) content, regardless the supplementation. The same happened with the digestion methods used.