Search

Simple Summary: This study analyzed microbial contamination in mutton meat and during its slaughter process at four retail sites in Coimbatore, focusing on the total microbial load and prevalence of specific pathogens. Samples from mutton meat, cutting boards, hand swabs, knives, weighing balances, and water were collected. Mutton-washed water and mutton meat exhibited the highest microbial loads, particularly in terms of total plate count and coliforms. E. coli and Staphylococcus species were common, with automated identification revealing that most pathogens were of Staphylococcus origin. Salmonella was detected in 57% of the mutton samples using an automated identification system. Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry analysis of goat meat inoculated with pathogens identified distinct volatile and metabolite profiles, providing potential biomarkers for contamination. Multivariate statistical analysis further differentiated the volatile and metabolite profiles. These findings underscore the importance of cross-contamination during meat handling and suggest using volatile compounds for pathogen detection. Microbial contamination and the prevalence of foodborne pathogens in mutton meat and during its slaughtering process were investigated through microbial source tracking and automated pathogen identification techniques. Samples from mutton meat, cutting boards, hand swabs, knives, weighing balances, and water sources were collected from four different retail sites in Coimbatore. Total plate count (TPC), yeast and mold count (YMC), coliforms, E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus were examined across 91 samples. The highest microbial loads were found in the mutton-washed water, mutton meat, and cutting board samples. The automated pathogen identification system identified Staphylococcus species as the predominant contaminant and also revealed a 57% prevalence of Salmonella. Further analysis of goat meat inoculated with specific pathogens showed distinct volatile and metabolite profiles, identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Multivariate statistical analyses, including principal component analysis (PCA), orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), and sparse partial least squares discriminant analysis (sPLS-DA), identified potential biomarkers for pathogen contamination. The results highlight the significance of cross-contamination in the slaughtering process and suggest the use of volatile compounds as potential biomarkers for pathogen detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the episodes of per-acute mortality due to peste des petits ruminants (PPR) that resulted in the death of 30 animals of different species of cervids, namely, barking deer, four-horned antelope, hog deer, thamin, and mouse deer in the State Zoo of Assam, a northeastern state of India. The affected animals showed no to limited clinical signs. However, the necropsy and histopathological findings were highly suggestive of PPR virus (PPRV) infection observed in domestic small ruminants. Representative tissue samples were screened for the presence of PPRV along with blue tongue virus (BTV) and epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) using RT-PCR or RT-qPCR and were found to be positive for PPRV. Considering the sudden outbreak of PPR in captive cervids, we sought to determine the role of domestic goats as the potential spillover host. To verify that, archived tissue samples of domestic goats collected during PPRV outbreaks in nearby localities and slaughtered goats used as meat for Carnivorous animals in the State Zoo were also screened and found to be positive for PPRV in RT-PCR. Phylogenetic analysis based on the Nucleocapsid (N) protein gene of PPRV from infected cervids, domestic goats, and goat meat revealed the virus to be of Lineage IV origin. Our findings provide evidence of probable spillover of PPRV from domestic goats to captive endangered cervids and circulation of Lineage IV PPRV strains among the small-ruminant population of this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, are characterized by a weakened skin barrier and persistent inflammation. Traditional treatments can frequently cause substantial side effects, emphasizing the need for safer alternatives. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory properties of goat meat extract and its effects on improving skin function. We conducted wound healing assays using HaCaT cells and analyzed the expression of key skin barrier-related genes. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory effects of goat meat extract were assessed in HaCaT cells stimulated with TNFα and IFNγ, as well as in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells. Mechanistic studies focused on the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. The results showed that goat meat extract significantly promoted wound closure in HaCaT cells and upregulated the expression of filaggrin, loricrin, and involucrin. The extract also reduced the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in both HaCaT and RAW264.7 cells. Furthermore, it inhibited the activation of the JNK, p38, and ERK pathways in TNFα/IFNγ-stimulated HaCaT cells. These findings suggest that goat meat extract improves skin barrier function and exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, indicating its potential as a therapeutic agent for chronic skin. Further research is required to investigate the in vivo effects of goat meat extract and validate its therapeutic potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goat meat has a high nutritional value, since it contains up to 29% protein, as well as iron, potassium and vitamin B12. To prolong the shelf life of this food, a drying process can be applied; however, there is scarce information on the kinetics and drying parameters for this food material. The objective of this work was to characterize the thermal drying process of goat meat, through the mathematical modeling of convective drying kinetics, and its validation with experimental data obtained in a drying tunnel. The experiments were carried out with samples of loin (Longissumus dorsi) of Boer goat meat from the Mixteca region of Oaxaca (Mexico). Meat samples were subjected to air convection drying at 40, 50, 60 and 70 °C (with temperature oscillation), with air velocities of 1 and 2 m/s. Drying kinetics, air and meat temperature profiles, relative humidity and air flow velocity were recorded. Four models were analyzed: two-term, Midilli's model, Wang and Singh's model and a heuristic model with temperature dependence. The proposed mathematical models represented drying kinetics with an accurate fitting of experimental data, with standard errors (RMSE) in the range of 0.004–0.029. The estimated diffusion coefficients are consistent with the transport properties in biomaterials. The heuristic model was based on the solution of the effective diffusion equation considering the linearization of the temperature-dependent diffusion coefficient, showing a standard error in the range of 0.007–0.028, satisfactorily representing the temperature oscillations that allows a moisture diffusion reorganization, mainly when drastic temperature changes occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Metabolites and microorganisms in the rumen affect host muscle fatty acid deposition. By analyzing the correlations between ruminal microbes and metabolites and multiple fatty acids in goat muscle, we identified several ruminal metabolites and microorganisms that could potentially influence fatty acid deposition in muscle. These results provide data to support the development of targeted feeding management strategies to improve the quality of goat meat. In this study, the fatty acid composition in the muscles of Hechuan white goats was correlated with the metabolome and metagenome of their rumen contents, and potential effects of the metabolites and microorganisms in the rumen on host muscle fatty acid deposition were analyzed. The results of the correlation analysis between the rumen content's metabolome and muscle fatty acid content showed that vitamin-B-related metabolites were significantly correlated with fatty acid content (p < 0.05). Most of these metabolites were positively correlated with stearic acid and negatively correlated with palmitic acid. In accordance with the level of fatty acid content, significant differences were found in the microbial species and abundance among groups at the species level. An abundance of Bacteroides, Ruminococcaceae P7, Eubacterium ruminant, and Prevotella in the rumen was significantly correlated with fatty acid content. These results provide data support for the development of targeted feeding management strategies to improve the quality of goat meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The ANGPT1 gene is crucial for angiogenesis and muscle growth. This study analyzed three ANGPT1 copy number variations (CNVs) in 417 Leizhou black goats using quantitative PCR (qPCR). Specifically, CNV-1 (ARS1_chr14:24950001-24953600), which overlaps with protein-coding regions, showed that a higher copy number (≥3) was significantly associated with increased ANGPT1 mRNA expression in muscle and improved traits such as carcass weight and muscle quality. These results suggest CNV-1's gain-of-copies genotype could be an effective marker for enhancing growth and meat quality in targeted breeding programs. The ANGPT1 gene plays a crucial role in the regulation of angiogenesis and muscle growth, with previous studies identifying copy number variations (CNVs) within this gene among Leizhou black goats. In this study, we investigated three ANGPT1 CNVs in 417 individuals of LZBG using quantitative PCR (qPCR), examining the impact of different CNV types on the ANGPT1 gene expression and their associations with growth and meat quality traits. Notably, the ANGPT1 CNV-1 (ARS1_chr14:24950001-24953600) overlaps with protein-coding regions and conserved domains; its gain-of-copies genotype (copies ≥ 3) was significantly correlated with ANGPT1 mRNA expression in muscle tissue (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the gain-of-copies genotype of CNV-1 demonstrated significant correlations with various phenotypic traits, including carcass weight, body weight, shear stress, chest circumference, and cross-sectional area of longissimus dorsi muscle. These findings indicate that the CNV-1 gain-of-copies genotype in the ANGPT1 gene may serve as a valuable marker for selecting Leizhou black goats exhibiting enhanced growth and muscular development characteristics, thereby holding potential applications in targeted breeding programs aimed at improving meat quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meat quality in goats is partly determined by the intramuscular fat (IMF) content, which is associated with the proliferation and differentiation of intramuscular preadipocytes. Emerging studies have suggested that miRNA plays a crucial role in adipocyte proliferation and differentiation. In our recent study, we observed the expression variations in miR-196a in the longissimus dorsi muscle of Jianzhou goats at different ages. However, the specific function and underlying mechanism of miR-196a in IMF deposition are still unclear. This study demonstrated that miR-196a significantly enhanced adipogenesis and apoptosis and reduced the proliferation of preadipocytes. Subsequently, RNA-seq was employed to determine genes regulated by miR-196a, and 677 differentially expressed genes were detected after miR-196a overexpression. The PI3K-Akt pathway was identified as activated in miR-196a regulating intramuscular adipogenesis via Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis and further verified via Western blot and rescue assays. Lastly, using RT-qPCR, Western blot, dual-luciferase, and rescue assays, we found that miR-196a promoted adipogenesis and suppressed the proliferation of intramuscular preadipocytes by the downregulation of MAP3K1. In summary, these results suggest that miR-196a regulates IMF deposition by targeting MAP3K1 and activating the PI3K-Akt pathway and provide a theoretical foundation for improving goat meat quality through molecular breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the importance of advanced methods and technologies in the meat industry for meeting consumer demand and ensuring food safety. It highlights several studies that explore different aspects of meat quality, including the use of near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) to assess the quality of Portuguese Bísaro pork meat, the analysis of volatile organic components (VOCs) in Lueyang black chicken, the comparison of meat characteristics between a dual-purpose poultry crossbreed and commercial broilers, the impact of dietary energy and protein levels on goat meat quality, and the degradation of collagen and decorin in intramuscular connective tissue using cathepsin L. These studies provide valuable insights for improving meat quality, authenticity verification, and consumer satisfaction. [Extracted from the article]

Simple Summary: Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4 Group A Member 1 (NR4A1) acts as a transcription factor to participate in lots of physiological activities including cell proliferation and cell differentiation. In this study, we found that NR4A1 promoted goat intramuscular preadipocyte differentiation through the PI3K/AKT pathway. This study provides important information about NR4A1 in the intramuscular preadipocyte differentiation in goats and therefore identifies a target for goat meat quality improvement studies. As a transcription factor, Nuclear Receptor Subfamily 4 Group A Member 1 (NR4A1) binds to downstream target genes to participate in cell proliferation and cell differentiation. We found that the NR4A1 reached the highest expression at 60 h after the differentiation of goat intramuscular preadipocytes. Overexpression of goat NR4A1 increased the number of intracellular lipid droplets and up-regulated the expression of adipocyte-differentiation-related marker genes including AP2, SREBP1, ACC, GPAM, and DGAT2, while the relative expression levels of Pref-1 and HSL were significantly decreased. On the contrary, after NR4A1 was knocked down by siRNA, the number of intracellular lipid droplets and the relative expression levels of LPL, CEBPα, CEBPβ, ACC, and DGAT2 were significantly decreased, and the relative expression levels of Pref-1 and HSL were significantly up-regulated. These results suggest that NR4A1 promotes the differentiation of goat intramuscular preadipocytes. Transcriptome sequencing was carried out after overexpression of goat NR4A1, and the KEGG enrichment analysis result showed that the most differentially expressed genes were related to adipocyte differentiation and were enriched in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. LY249002, an inhibitor of the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, was introduced and decreased the number of intracellular lipid droplets, and the relative expression levels of C/EBPα, SREBP1, AP2, C/EBPβ, GPAM, ACC, DGAT1, DGAT2, and ATGL were decreased accordingly. The above results indicate that overexpression of goat NR4A1 may promote the differentiation of intramuscular preadipocytes through the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, a total of 720 samples were collected from retail raw meat from 13 upazilas in Sylhet District, Bangladesh, of which 225 samples were from cattle meat, 210 samples were from goat meat, and 285 samples were from chicken meat. Salmonella enterica serovars Typhimurium and Enteritidis were screened for extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) genes using multiplex PCR. Among the 720 samples, Salmonella spp. was detected in 28.06% (202 out of 720) of the samples, with S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium were identified in 11.53% (83 out of 720) and 12.22% (88 out of 720) of the samples, respectively. It was found that all Salmonella enterica serovars isolated from cattle meat displayed multidrug resistance (MDR) based on antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Notably, a significant proportion of S. Enteritidis isolates and all S. Typhimurium isolates from goat meat demonstrated complete resistance to multiple drugs (ampicillin, cefuroxime, and ceftazidime). Regarding chicken meat, out of 89 isolates encompassing both S. Typhimurium and S. Enteritidis, 57 isolates (64.04%) exhibited MDR. Additionally, blaCTX-M-1 exhibited the highest occurrence at 15.69% for S. Typhimurium and 7.89% for S. Enteritidis in chicken meat. Moreover, blaCTX-M-9 was only detected at 3.92% for S. Enteritidis in chicken meat. Furthermore, blaOXA had the highest prevalence rate of 19.04% for S. Enteritidis and 25.80% for S. Typhimurium in cattle meat, followed by chicken meat. These findings highlight the urgency for monitoring ESBL-producing Salmonella in retail raw meat and the need for strict measure to manage antibiotic use to prevent the spread of multidrug-resistant and ESBL-producing Salmonella strains, thereby protecting humans and reducing public health risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Dietary supplements can affect animal growth, product quality, and various physiological factors. This study investigated the effects of supplementing hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) oil in the diet of goats. CBD, when included at higher levels (0.2–0.3 mL), led to improved meat quality but also altered volatile compound profiles. Additionally, CBD supplementation affected some blood variables related to immunity, metabolism, and homeostasis. Stress experienced by animals during pre-mortem management handling significantly affects both their welfare and the quality of the meat produced. Using hemp-derived CBD may offer several benefits in alleviating this issue. In this study, we investigated the effects of hemp-derived CBD supplementation on blood variables, growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality in goats. Sixteen crossbred Boer goats were divided into four groups receiving a basal diet supplemented with 0 (control), 0.1, 0.2, or 0.3 mL CBD/30 kg body weight over 90 days. Although growth, carcass characteristics, and pH remained unaffected, CBD supplementation influenced several blood variables. Specifically, dietary CBD at 0.1–0.3 mL increased white blood cell (WBC) counts, while 0.3 mL CBD increased serum total protein, globulin, sodium, and carbon dioxide levels, potentially affecting protein metabolism and electrolyte balance. Over time, significant changes were noted in hematological profiles, kidney markers, protein profiles, and some electrolytes, indicating physiological adaptations. Regarding meat quality, supplementation with 0.2–0.3 mL of CBD linearly improved color redness and stability; moreover, CBD supplementation improved tenderness and textural properties, resulting in a softer meat texture. However, analysis using an E-nose indicated increased ammonia and organic solvent vapors in meat from the higher CBD groups. This study concluded that CBD supplementation up to 0.3 mL of CBD/30 kg body weight beneficially modulated blood biomarkers, meat color, and tenderness without adverse impacts on growth or carcass characteristics in goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Methane emitted by ruminant livestock contributes to climate change and represents a considerable waste of energy. Several methane measurement devices have been developed to measure ruminal methane emission. The GreenFeed system (GFS) was introduced as a static short-term measurement device to quantify methane emission by groups of animals in pen or pasture settings. Currently, protocols are available for measuring methane emission by cattle using GFS, but none are available for goats. This study, therefore, was conducted to determine appropriate numbers (3, 4 and 6 times/day) and times of daily measurements to estimate methane emission by goats with the GFS. Also, methane emission determined with a calorimetry system (CS) was compared with that quantified with GFS. The frequency of daily measurements did not affect methane emission estimates with the GFS system, but methane emission with the GFS was much higher than with the CS. The relationship between CS and GFS, which entailed four- and six-times daily measurements, was stronger. The study suggests a protocol involving at least four daily measurements may be useful to detect treatment differences or animal ranking for methane emission. However, using the GFS for goats under the present conditions estimated higher methane emissions compared with the CS, and thus it requires modifications to improve methane-emission estimates. The study was conducted to determine appropriate numbers and times of daily gas measurements to estimate total daily methane (CH4) emission of meat goats using a GreenFeed system (GFS). A replicated 4 (four measurement protocols) × 4 (four periods) Latin square design was employed with 16 Boer wethers in a confinement pen setting. Measurement protocols entailed three (G-3T; 0600–0700, 1400–1500, and 2200–2300 h), four (G-4T; 0700–0800, 1300–1400, 1900–2000, and 0100–0200 h), and six (G-6T; 0800–0900, 1200–1300, 1600–1700, 2000–2100, 0000–0100, and 0400–0500 h) times for daily measurement periods in GFS. The fourth protocol was continuous measurement over 24 h with animals in an open-circuit respiration calorimetry system (CS). Oat hay was given in individual feeders, and a small predetermined quantity of a pelleted concentrate supplement (bait) was dispensed by the GFS or manually offered for the CS. Overall, total dry matter (DM) intake (614, 625, 635, and 577 g/day for CS, G-3T, G-4T, and G-6T, respectively; SEM = 13.9) and digestible DM intake (359, 368, 374, and 320 CS, G-3T, G-4T, and G-6T, respectively; SEM = 15.9) were lower for CS than for G-3T, G-4T, and G-6T (p < 0.05), but these variables were not different among the GFS protocols. There was a significant (p < 0.001) effect of measurement protocol on CH4 emission in g/day (11.1, 25.6, 27.3, and 26.7 for CS, G-3T, G-4T, and G-6T, respectively; SEM = 1.11), g/kg DM intake (19.3, 46.4, 43.9, and 42.4 for CS, G-3T, G-4T, and G-6T, respectively; SEM = 2.03), and g/kg body weight (0.49, 1.11, 1.18, and 1.16 for CS, G-3T, G-4T, and G-6T, respectively; SEM = 0.052), with values being much lower for CS than for G-3T, G-4T and G-6T. Conversely, CH4 emission was similar among the GFS protocols despite differences in the time and number of daily visits (2.03, 2.76, and 3.75 visits for G-3T, G-4T, and G-6T, respectively; SEM = 0.114; p < 0.001). Pearson correlation (r) analysis indicated a moderate to high (p < 0.05) correlation between CS and G-3T (r = 0.62 for CH4 in g/day and r = 0.59 for CH4 in g/kg BW), CS and G-4T (r = 0.67 for CH4 in g/day and r = 0.76 for CH4 in g/kg BW), and CS and G-6T (r = 0.70 for CH4 in g/day and r = 0.75 for CH4 in g/kg BW). However, the correlation coefficient for CH4 in g/kg DM intake was low between CS and G-3T (r = 0.11) and CS and G-6T (r = 0.31) but slightly greater between CS and G-4T (r = 0.47). In conclusion, the results suggest that CH4 emissions using GFS in a confinement setting were greater compared with the CS in goats, but CH4-emission estimation using the GFS correlated with the CH4 emission in the CS system with a stronger relationship for the four times of daily measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of different levels of sodium chloride, sodium nitrite, and glucose on the quality characteristics of spontaneously fermented goat meat sausage was investigated. The amounts of total biogenic amines in all the sausages ranged from 324.70 to 388.77 mg/kg; among them, spermine was the most abundant, with amounts ranging from 230.96 to 275.78 mg/kg. Increasing sodium chloride from 15 to 35 g/kg, the content of cadaverine, putrescine, tyramine, phenylethylamine, tryptamine, and total amines decreased, and Enterobacteriaceae counts decreased at the same time. Increasing sodium nitrite from 150 to 250 mg/kg, the content of cadaverine, histamine, and total amines decreased, while Enterobacteriaceae counts decreased simultaneously. Increasing glucose from 10 to 40 g/kg, the content of cadaverine, spermidine, and total amines decreased. Enterococcus was the most abundant genus across all the samples, and the relative abundance of Enterococcus was reduced obviously by increasing sodium nitrite and glucose levels. The top 10 differential bacterial taxa for each additive group were respectively obtained, and microbial biomarkers for each level of additive within its group were acquired, respectively. Through Pearson correlation, Lactobacillus was positively correlated with phenylethylamine, tryptamine, tyramine, and cadaverine, Bacteroides and Sediminibacterium were positively correlated with phenylethylamine and putrescine, respectively, suggesting they have the potential to produce biogenic amines. The results provided references for controlling the accumulation of biogenic amines in fermented goat meat sausage via the addition of auxiliary additives during the processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lipid and volatile profiles of goat primal cuts (shoulder, rib, loin, breast, and leg), as well as their potential impact on nutritional and flavor/taste attributes, were investigated. The breast cuts had the lowest protein but the highest fat content. Triacylglycerol was the predominant lipid in all cuts (82.22–88.01%), while the breast cuts had the lowest triacylglycerol and the highest diacylglycerol and free fatty acids. Also, the highest unsaturated fatty acid (UFA), both monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), was obtained in the breast cuts. These findings correlated well with the highest peroxide value (PV) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) value. The volatile profiles of the various grilled cuts indicated that the breast and leg cuts had similar volatiles, with higher amounts of alcohol, aldehyde, ketone, and ester than others, which could explain the flavor oxidation by lipid and off-flavors in spoiled meat. While the shoulder, rib, and loin cuts had higher amounts of nitrogen-containing compounds. The highest sulfur-containing and hydrocarbon compounds were also observed in the shoulder cuts, which are mainly formed during the Maillard reaction and responsible for the cooked meat flavor. This investigation revealed that each cut of goat meat has a varied composition, especially in lipids and volatile compounds. Thus, meat quality differs in terms of nutritional aspects and flavor/taste characteristics, enabling consumers to select nutritious or proper cuts for their cooking to achieve the most satisfaction from goat meat consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Spent Hypsizygus marmoreus substrate (SHMS) is a byproduct of the Hypsizygus marmoreus harvest and contains numerous nutrients and active substances. It is a new type of high-quality feed material for livestock and poultry, with a certain application value. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of composite alkali-stored SHMS on carcass quality, rumen fermentation, and rumen microbial diversity in goats. The results showed that adding it to the diet improved the carcass quality. It also increased the content of the total volatile fatty acids in rumen and had a positive impact on rumen fermentation. Furthermore, it altered the rumen microbial community structure of the goats. These research findings can provide scientific references for the utilization of SHMS as feed in the goat industry. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of composite alkali-stored spent Hypsizygus marmoreus substrate (SHMS) on carcass quality, rumen fermentation, and rumen microbial diversity in goats. Twenty-four 6-month-old Chuanzhong black goats with similar body weights (20 ± 5 kg) were selected and randomly divided into four groups (n = 6 per group) and received four treatments: 0% (control group, CG); 20% (low-addition group, LG); 30% (moderate-addition group, MG); and 40% (high-addition group, HG) of SHMS-replaced silage corn and oat hay. The experiment lasted for 74 days (including a 14 d adaptation period and a 60 d treatment period). The results of this study showed that MG and HG significantly improved the marble score of goat meat (p < 0.05). The flesh color score significantly increased in each group (p < 0.05). The fat color scores significantly increased in LG and MG (p < 0.05). There were no significant effects on the pH value or shear force of the longissimus dorsi in each group (p > 0.05). The cooking loss in MG was higher than that in CG (p < 0.05). The histidine and tyrosine contents in each group of muscles significantly increased (p < 0.05), with no significant effect on fatty acids (p > 0.05). The rumen pH of MG significantly decreased (p < 0.05), while the total volatile fatty acids (TVFAs) and ammoniacal nitrogen (NH3-N) increased by 44.63% and 54.50%, respectively. The addition of the SHMS altered both the alpha and beta diversities of the rumen microbiota and significant differences in the composition and structure of the four microbial communities. The dominant bacterial phylum in each group were Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, with Prevotella 1 as the dominant bacterial genus. Correlation analysis revealed that rumen bacteria are closely related to the animal carcass quality and rumen fermentation. In the PICRUSt prediction, 21 significantly different pathways were found, and the correlation network showed a positive correlation between the Prevotella 1 and 7 metabolic pathways, while the C5-branched dibasic acid metabolism was positively correlated with nine bacteria. In summary, feeding goats with an SHMS diet can improve the carcass quality, promote rumen fermentation, and alter the microbial structure. The research results can provide a scientific reference for the utilization of SHMS as feed in the goat industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yudong black goats (YDGs) are a local breed in southwest China that possess unique meat qualities and produce a high meat yield, making them ideal models for studying goat meat quality. Castration may decrease off-odors, significantly change metabolites and improve meat quality. Using multi-omics techniques, this study focused on Yudong black goat wethers (YDW, n = 4) and Yudong black bucks (YDB, n = 4). The findings revealed that 33 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 279 significantly changed metabolites (SCMs) influenced goat meat quality by affecting fat accumulation and lipolysis regulatory processes. Herein, several candidate genes (IGF1, TNNT2, PPP2R2C, MAPK10 and VNN1, etc.) were identified that play a role in regulating meat quality, non-castrated and castrated, alongside a series of metabolites that may serve as potential meat quality biomarkers. Lipids (triglycerides, oxidized lipids_5-iso PGF2VI, ceramide (t18:1/36:2(2OH)) and Carnitine C20:5, etc.) were significantly higher in the castrated goats. These results revealed that lipids and hydrophilic metabolites were affected by castration, which might be beneficial in terms of goat meat quality. This study aimed to investigate the differences in meat quality between uncastrated and castrated male goats and the possible molecular regulatory mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sheep and goat meats are increasingly popular worldwide due to their superior nutritional properties and distinctive flavor profiles. In recent decades, substantial progress in meat science has facilitated in-depth examinations of ovine and caprine muscle development during the antemortem phase, as well as post-mortem changes influencing meat attributes. To elucidate the intrinsic molecular mechanisms and identify potential biomarkers associated with meat quality, the methodologies employed have evolved from traditional physicochemical parameters (such as color, tenderness, water holding capacity, flavor, and pH) to some cutting-edge omics technologies, including transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics approaches. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of multi-omics techniques and their applications in unraveling sheep and goat meat quality attributes. In addition, the challenges and future perspectives associated with implementing multi-omics technologies in this area of study are discussed. Multi-omics tools can contribute to deciphering the molecular mechanism responsible for the altered the meat quality of sheep and goats across transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic dimensions. The application of multi-omics technologies holds great potential in exploring and identifying biomarkers for meat quality and quality control, thereby promoting the optimization of production processes in the sheep and goat meat industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study evaluated the dietary effects of extruded linseed and oregano on the quality traits and sensory properties of meat obtained from kids of a Lucanian goat population named "Facciuta Lucana". Thirty-six male kids were divided into three homogeneous groups fed a control feed (C), a diet containing 3% extruded linseed (L), or 3% linseed plus 0.6% oregano (L + O). Meat from the Longissimus lumborum muscle obtained from linseed-fed groups showed a lower content of fat and total saturated fatty acids and, in turn, an increase in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and conjugated linoleic acid, with benefits for human health. Oregano addition to the linseed diet proved to be effective in preserving meat shelf-life, since it lowered the malondialdehyde concentration after 10 days of storage, and improved meat succulence, tenderness, juiciness, and overall acceptance. Extruded linseed (Linum usitatissimum) in ruminant diets has been investigated as a strategy to improve the nutritional value and healthiness of meat fat; however, increased polyunsaturated fatty acids may limit the shelf-life of meat. Oregano (Origanum vulgare) has a documented antioxidant activity. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with extruded linseed and oregano on goat milk quality and whether the characteristics of goat milk affect the physical and chemical features, fatty acid profile, meat lipid oxidation, and sensory properties of meat from suckling kids. Thirty-six male kids were weaned and divided into three homogeneous groups (n = 12); each group was either fed a control diet (C), or a diet containing 3% extruded linseed with or without the addition of 0.6% oregano ("L + O" and "L", respectively). The diets containing linseed lowered (p < 0.05) the saturated fatty acid content in meat, and increased (p < 0.05) monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid. Oregano addition to the linseed diet proved to be effective in preserving meat shelf-life, as shown by a significant (p < 0.01) reduction in the malondialdehyde concentration after 10 days of storage, and improved meat succulence, tenderness, juiciness, and overall acceptance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goats are produced in Laos on a small scale and most of them are exported to Vietnam, where they receive a price approximately 30% higher than Vietnamese crossbred goats. In 2021, Laos exported 2.2 million dollars in sheep and goats, mostly to Vietnam (2.19 million dollars). Vietnam was also the fastest-growing export market for sheep and goats of Laos between 2020 and 2021, comprising 66.7% of the total exports. This study aims to analyze the goat value chain from Laos to Vietnam and, based on its characteristics, to suggest policy interventions for the socio-economic sustainable development of the chain. This research analyzes a sample of 400 survey interviews of goat chain actors collected during the second and third quarters of 2022, with the support of CommCare software version 2.53.1. The results show that the Lao goat chain has four main functions implemented by four prominent actors: goat-rearing farmers, traders, abattoir owners, and restaurant owners. However, the role of input suppliers is unclear in this chain. Support to the stakeholders has been provided by local authorities and the government, projects and NGOs, technical supporters, and license supporters. There was not any clear evidence of the goat processing industry. Vertical and horizontal linkages between stakeholders exist, but agreements are primarily oral. There is no declaration of leading actors, and a traceability system has yet to be implemented. The increase in Lao goat exports to the Vietnamese market is driven by the high demand from Vietnamese consumers. The commercialization of goats' yields provides a positive net income in Lao, where all actors benefit, especially traders and restaurant owners. The chain also creates job opportunities and income that improve living standards, especially for disadvantaged groups, such as women, middle-aged people, people with low literacy, and those living in rural areas. For the sustainable development of the chain, this research recommends that the Lao and Vietnamese governments work together to develop more favorable conditions for goat trading, to improve the traceability across the goat chain, to promote goat husbandry and feeding practices, and to foster goat farmer collaboration by sharing goat-rearing experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Cadmium (Cd), a toxic heavy metal, can extensively pollute the environment after long-term accumulation in the natural environment. After Cd is absorbed by the human body through the food chain, it can also bring great harm to human health. In this study, goats were taken as the research object to study the key pathways and potential therapeutic targets of Cd metabolism to ultimately provide technical support for the prevention and treatment of Cd exposure. Food safety and environmental pollution are the hotspots of general concern globally. Notably, long-term accumulation of trace toxic heavy metals, such as cadmium (Cd), in animals may endanger human health via the food chain. The mechanism of Cd toxicity in the goat, a popular farmed animal, has not been extensively investigated to date. Therefore, in this study, ten male goats (Nubian black goat × native black goat) were exposed to Cd via drinking water containing CdCl2 (20 mg Cd·kg−1·BW) for 30 days (five male goats per group). In this study, we used an integrated approach combining proteomics and metabolomics to profile proteins and metabolites in the serum of Cd-exposed goats. It was found that Cd exposure impacted the levels of 30 serum metabolites and 108 proteins. The combined proteomic and metabolomic analysis revealed that Cd exposure affected arginine and proline metabolism, beta-alanine metabolism, and glutathione metabolism. Further, antioxidant capacity in the serum of goats exposed to Cd was reduced. We identified CKM and spermidine as potential protein and metabolic markers, respectively, of early Cd toxicity in the goat. This study details approaches for the early diagnosis and prevention of Cd-poisoned goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Hempseed meal (HSM) is a by-product of hemp manufacturing that can be an excellent source of crude protein and fiber in animal diets. Before accepting HSM as a feed ingredient throughout the food animal industry, the Food and Drug Administration's Center for Veterinary Medicine requires extensive evaluation and documentation of feed ingredients across a species. Hemp contains nine essential amino acids and a healthy balance of the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. HSM may be a potential new source of feedstuff for animals; however, an understanding of the effects of HSM on meat characteristics is limited in the literature. The current study was conducted to determine whether HSM will influence goat meat quality, shelf stability, or objective tenderness. Including HSM (0, 10, 20, or 30% inclusion rate in the total diet, on an as-fed basis) as a by-product ingredient caused changes to the surface color, postmortem pH, and instrumental tenderness measurements. However, HSM did not cause a deleterious effect on carcass characteristics. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of hempseed meal (HSM) on goat meat characteristics. Goats (N = 10/treatment) were allocated to a diet concentration (0, 10, 20, or 30%) of HSM, fed for 60 days, and harvested. Carcass measurements were collected after chilling, and subsequently fabricated into wholesale subprimals. From the subprimals of the shoulder and leg, steaks were cut 2.54 cm thick, vacuum packaged, and assigned to laboratory methods: cook yield, instrumental color, lipid oxidation, microbial spoilage, and instrumental tenderness. HSM did not alter (p > 0.05) carcass characteristics, microbial spoilage, cook loss, or the thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS). However, a decrease in objective tenderness measurements (p < 0.05) was observed with greater concentrations of HSM supplementation in the diet. Instrumental surface color values for lightness (L*) indicated that steaks became lighter and less red (a*) as storage time increased (p < 0.05). Results suggest that HSM and storage time do not alter some goat meat traits, but HSM or storage time separately may influence goat meat quality. HSM may be an effective feed ingredient that does not alter carcass quality or meat yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goat meat could be a sustainable source of red meat. Its farming requires minimal input, is suitable for free-range farming, and produces a healthier red meat option as it is lean. Although goat meat has advantages for meat production, it still needs to be established as a valuable part of the meat trade market. But, currently, goat meat production is less specialized; there is less intense breed selection for premium meat production, and often the animals are farmed with a multifunctional purpose, such as for their meat, fiber, and milk. The less structured goat meat industry contributes to the inconsistent quality of goat meat. This paper attempts to describe the characteristics of popular goat breeds and indigenous goats as a source of meat and the potential of various goat breeds for meat production. Additionally, this paper presents goat meat's quality and physicochemical and sensory attributes that are relevant to understanding the unique attributes of goat meat. Much work is needed for the goat meat processing industry to develop its potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Over the last decade, the total goat population in Vietnam increased more than two-fold, from 1.29 million to 2.65 million heads. In spite of a transformation from extensive grazing to cut-and-carry intensive systems, more than three-fourths of goats in Vietnam are raised by small-scale producers. The demands for goat meat and milk are significantly increasing, leading to pressure for imports. Goat marketing primarily takes place through informal channels and is dominated by small-scale producers and traders. The formal goat market is poorly developed. The marketing research and statistical data on the goat value chain are scarce. This situation has led to an inconsistency in livestock supply and quality and, as a result, unstable pricing. Information and documentation regarding both horizontal and vertical linkages in the supply chain remain limited. Despite receiving strong support from the government and experiencing high demand, goat production and marketing systems have yet to achieve their full potential. This review overviews the current status of goat production and supply chains in Vietnam. It also identifies the main challenges and opportunities of, and provides suggestions through which improve, the nation's goat production and marketing. The current situation of goat production and supply chains in Vietnam, along with its difficulties and possibilities, is presented in this review paper. The data and reports of government agencies, scientific journals, and websites were analysed in order to determine the prevailing situation in goat production and marketing. Goats are mainly raised on small-scale farms (73.4% of the total goat population). Goat production is transforming from extensive grazing to cut-and-carry intensive systems. Goat meat and milk supplies have not fully met domestic demand. However, the scale of the domestic market is difficult to ascertain, due to the lack of market research and statistics. Goat marketing is mostly informal and overwhelmingly conducted by small-scale producers and traders, although there are numerous governmental agencies at both the national and local levels regulating formal marketing. The major challenges facing the goat industry are feed shortage; supply inconsistency; limited market infrastructure and research; a lack of sustainable breeding programmes, price incentives, and processing facilities; and competition from foreign suppliers. However, there are opportunities to expand and develop the industry, such as consumers' health consciousness, increasing demand, high-value adding, and strong government support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The type of goat kid meat that is consumed in countries of the Mediterranean basin belongs to very young animals with little fat. Despite being a healthy meat from a nutritional point of view, its consumption is not very common. In this study, after conducting surveys with a number of different families, we evaluated goat kid meat using a home test sensory analysis. Despite the meat obtaining high scores during sensory analysis, there is often considerable ignorance about the factors that affect the production of this type of animal, especially in young people and in areas where consumption of this meat is uncommon. For this reason, it is important to show its value and to improve production and profitability in the primary sector, carrying out specific marketing work to target the different clusters obtained in the study. The goat meat preferred by consumers in Spain comes from suckling goat kids, slaughtered at a live weight of 8–10 kg. However, consumption of this meat is very uncommon, so it is necessary to show its value. To achieve this, we planned to investigate consumers' perceptions about goat kid meat and to study whether their perceptions are related to their sensory appraisal of the meat, measured by the mean of the consumers' home tests. The experiment was conducted with 30 volunteer families (from two cities with different consumption patterns), who were surveyed regarding their sociodemographic parameters, purchasing and eating habits, and the importance of the meat's attributes. As a result, four clusters were obtained, which were labeled "negative," "idealistic," "positive," and "concerned about fat content". The parameters of the animal production system were valued differently by the clusters. Meat tenderness, taste, and amount of fat were considered very decisive factors by most respondents. When the goat kid meat was valued, tenderness was considered more important than taste among older people ("negative" cluster), whereas there was not so much difference between the appraisal of all parameters for the other three clusters. We conclude that it is necessary to improve the information received by consumers about goat production systems and meat quality parameters. There is certainly potential for creating new markets, especially targeted toward young consumers and considering specific strategies for the different groups of consumers, depending on the region and habits of consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the flavor changes in goat meat upon storage, the volatile components observed in goat meat after different storage periods were determined using gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (GC–IMS). A total of 38 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were determined from the goat meat samples, including alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, esters, hydrocarbons, ethers, and amine compounds. 1-Hexanol, 3-Hydroxy-2-butanone, and Ethyl Acetate were the main volatile substances in fresh goat meat, and they rapidly decreased with increasing storage time and can be used as biomarkers for identifying fresh meat. When combined with the contents of total volatile basic–nitrogen (TVB-N) and the total numbers of bacterial colonies observed in physical and chemical experiments, the characteristic volatile components of fresh, sub-fresh, and spoiled meat were determined by principal component analysis (PCA). This method will help with the detection of fraudulent production dates in goat meat sales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The use of cacti, such as forage cactus, in goat feeding is widely practised in Northeast Brazil due to adaptation to climatic conditions, mainly in arid and semi-arid regions. During dry periods, when water is the main limiting factor for the development of most plant species, the growth of forage cactus is not compromised due to crassulacean acid metabolism. However, little is known about the effects of forage cactus on goats' diet in relation to meat quality. In this study, we evaluated the inclusion of 0, 25 and 55% of forage cactus replacing Tifton 85 hay in the diet of goats and its effects on meat quality. Meat from kids fed 55% of forage cactus showed greater acceptance by consumers. Therefore, it is recommended that Tifton 85 hay be replaced with 55% forage cactus, as it provides lower lipid content and higher monounsaturated fatty acid content in goat meat. Low rainfall in Northeast Brazil is a limiting factor for animal production. Forages that present crassulacean acid metabolism, such as forage cactus, are adapted to the edaphoclimatic conditions of this region, as they lose little water through the stomata. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the physical and chemical quality, fatty acid profile and sensory acceptance of the meat from goats fed forage cactus as a substitute for Tifton 85 hay. Twenty-one uncastrated mixed-breed goats with a mean body weight of 18 ± 0.86 kg and 7 ± 1 months of age were used. A completely randomized design with three treatments and seven replications per treatment was performed. The inclusion of 0 (control), 25 and 55% of forage cactus in substitution of Tifton 85 hay in the diet of the goats was evaluated. The lipid content in the meat of animals fed 25 and 55% of forage cactus was 1.33% and 1.26%, respectively, and was lower (p < 0.05) in relation to the meat of animals that received the control diet (1.56%). The inclusion of 55% of forage cactus provided an increase (p < 0.05) in the content of monounsaturated fatty acids in the meat (52.71%) in relation to the control meat (37.75%). Sensory analysis differed (p < 0.05) between treatments. We recommend replacing Tifton 85 hay with 55% forage cactus, as it presents greater sensory acceptance, and provides lower lipid content and higher content of monounsaturated fatty acids in goat meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In mammals, skeletal muscle development is a complex biological process regulated by many factors. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification plays an important role in many biological processes. However, the regulation of m6A on skeletal muscle growth and development in adult goats remains unclear. In this study, Duan goats (DA) and Nubia goats (NBY), both female and 12 months old, were selected as the research objects, and m6A-Seq and RNA-Seq were mainly used to detect the difference of m6A modification and gene expression during the development of the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle in the two breeds. The results showed that compared with DA, the meat production performance of NBY was better than that of DA, and the modification level of m6A was higher than that of DA in LD. The m6A-Seq of LD indicated m6A peaks were mainly enriched in the coding sequence (CDS) and stop codon. A total of 161 differentially methylated genes (DMGs) and 1294 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in two breeds. GO and KEGG analysis showed that DMGs were closely related to cellular metabolism, and most of DMGs were enriched in pathways related to energy metabolism, muscle growth and development, mainly MAPK signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway and CGMP-PKG signaling pathway. The DEGs were significantly enriched in actin binding, calcium ion binding, angiogenesis, and other biological processes, and most of them were enriched in PI3K-Akt and CGMP-PKG signaling pathways. Combined analysis of m6A-Seq and RNA-Seq data revealed a negative correlation between differentially methylated m6A levels and mRNA abundance, and mRNA expression of the gene with m6A peak near 3′UTR will decrease. In addition, 11 DMGs regulating cell differentiation, muscle growth and development were identified. This study displayed the m6A profiles and distribution patterns in the goat transcriptome, determined the potential role of m6A modification in muscle growth and provided a new reference for the further study of goat skeletal muscle development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intramuscular fat contributes to the improvement of goat meat quality. N6-Methyladenosine (m6A)-modified circular RNAs play important roles in adipocyte differentiation and metabolism. However, the mechanisms by which m6A modifies circRNA before and after differentiation of goat intramuscular adipocytes remain poorly understood. Here, we performed methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) and circRNA sequencing (circRNA-seq) to determine the distinctions in m6A-methylated circRNAs during goat adipocyte differentiation. The profile of m6A-circRNA showed a total of 427 m6A peaks within 403 circRNAs in the intramuscular preadipocytes group, and 428 peaks within 401 circRNAs in the mature adipocytes group. Compared with the intramuscular preadipocytes group, 75 peaks within 75 circRNAs were significantly different in the mature adipocytes group. Furthermore, the Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses of intramuscular preadipocytes and mature adipocytes showed that the differentially m6A-modified circRNAs were enriched in the PKG signaling pathway, endocrine and other factor-regulated calcium reabsorption, lysine degradation, etc. m6A-circRNA–miRNA–mRNA interaction networks predicted the potential m6A-circRNA regulation mechanism in different goat adipocytes. Our results indicate that there is a complicated regulatory relationship between the 12 upregulated and 7 downregulated m6A-circRNAs through 14 and 11 miRNA mediated pathways, respectively. In addition, co-analysis revealed a positive association between m6A abundance and levels of circRNA expression, such as expression levels of circRNA_0873 and circRNA_1161, which showed that m6A may play a vital role in modulating circRNA expression during goat adipocyte differentiation. These results would provide novel information for elucidating the biological functions and regulatory characteristics of m6A-circRNAs in intramuscular adipocyte differentiation and could be helpful for further molecular breeding to improve meat quality in goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: As the aging population is rapidly increasing worldwide, consumer interest in age-friendly foods and healthy foods is increasing. Recently, as the nutritional value of black goat meat has been proven, the consumption of black goats has increased. However, the best age of slaughter has not been established for black goats, and studies on meat characteristics according to the age of slaughter are also insufficient. Therefore, in this study, the physicochemical properties of black goat meat according to the slaughter age (3, 6, 9, 12, 24, and 36 months of age) were investigated. As the age of the black goats increased, the shear force, redness, and yellowness increased, and the brightness decreased. In addition, the results for water holding capacity, cooking yield, mineral content, and fatty acid composition, showed that it is appropriate to slaughter black goats after 12 months of age. This study was conducted to analyze the physicochemical properties of black goat meat according to the slaughter age (3, 6, 9, 12, 24, 36 months). The moisture content tended to decrease, whereas the fat content, pH, and free amino acid composition tended to increase with increasing slaughter age. The collagen content increased significantly with the increasing slaughter age (p < 0.05). The cooking yield showed a tendency to increase up to 12 months of age, and there was no significant difference after 12 months of age. In all mineral contents, the sample for 12 months of age showed higher values than the others. Considering fatty acid composition, the saturated fatty acid content of the 12-month sample had a lower value than the other samples. However, the unsaturated fatty acid of the 12-month sample had higher values than the other samples. Therefore, the best slaughter age for black goats occurs at 12 months of age when nutrition is excellent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Parasites are a major health problem in tropical goat husbandry. Among the parasites, gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) play an important role. The control of GINs relies on the use of synthetic anthelmintics. Their use for decades has resulted in frequent GIN resistance to these treatments. Therefore, there is a need to target only the animals in need of treatment to reduce the selection for GIN resistance. The difficulty is in finding easy to use pathophysiological indicators such as anemia (with FAMACHA©, estimation of eye mucosal color), loss of weight (with body score), or hair roughness. These indicators can be used by farmers after the promotion and help of agricultural advisory services. Laboratory examinations such as the excretion of GIN eggs in feces are very useful in estimating the infection of goats, but are costly and thus remain the exception. Eighteen farmers participated in semi-directive interviews to appreciate their relation to goat GIN infection and the solutions they considered. Seventeen were investigated for GIN infection. The average infection by GINs was high, with a wide range from one farm to another. The frequency of anthelmintic treatments was negatively related to the use of body score, FAMACHA©, and hair roughness. GIN were not a major issue for traditional farmers. This is due to the important use of indicators and the belief in their value, which provides comfort to farmers that the parasites are being controlled. Gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) are a major health problem in tropical goat husbandry. The control of GIN has been nearly exclusively reliant on the use of anthelmintic treatments. Their wide use has provoked the appearance and diffusion of anthelmintic resistance. Therefore, there is a need to use anthelmintics only when they are really needed. This strategy of targeted selective treatment (TST) has been recommended. The selection of animals to be treated has been based either on the objective measures of GIN intensity (fecal nematode egg counts) performed in the laboratory or on indirect assessment such as anemia (FAMACHA©), diarrhea score or weight gains, particularly in sheep. The roughness of hair has also been proposed in goats. These indicators can be handled by the farmer. Their opinion on the importance of GINs, and the indicators that they are ready to accept and use have very rarely been studied. Goat for meat production is important in the French West Indies (especially in Guadeloupe) and GIN infection may significantly alter this production. Eighteen farmers participated in semi-directive interviews in order to appreciate their relation to goat GIN infection and the solutions they considered. Seventeen farms were investigated for fecal nematode egg counts, FAMACHA©, body score, and roughness of hair. The average infection by GINs was high (average fecal egg count 1562 and standard deviation 2028) with a wide range from one farm to another (from 0 to 25,000 eggs of GIN per gram of feces). The Haemonchus genera was predominant (54%), followed by Trichostrongylus (37%) and Oesophagostomum (9%). Young goats were less infected than adult goats since they were not yet grazing; males were more infected than females; and the Creole breed was more infected than the other breeds. Among the farming types, the professional ones were less infected compared with the traditional or mixed agriculture and husbandry farms. Those using targeted selective treatment did not have a significantly higher GIN infection than those treating the whole herd. Most of the characteristics were related and multivariate analysis could not match the intensity of GIN infection with any parameter. The frequency of anthelmintic treatments was negatively related to the use of body score, FAMACHA©, and hair roughness. The use of semi-directive interviews provided a wider understanding of the strategies and problems of farmers. The farmers valued their animals very much and diseases, in general, were a preoccupation, whereas parasites were not a major issue for traditional farmers. This is due to the important use of indicators and the belief in their value that gives comfort to the farmers that the parasites are being controlled. The extension services have well diffused the practice of indicators to the goat farmers of Guadeloupe, with some depending less on anthelmintics to control the gastrointestinal nematodes by using targeted selective treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquilaria (A.) sinensis is a medicinal plant widely grown in tropical South China. Given the abundant pruning waste of its leaves, the use of A. sinensis leaves is valuable. In this study, goats were fed a diet containing 20% A. sinensis leaves. Compared with the basal diet, feeding A. sinensis leaves to goats did not affect growth performance but considerably reduced the feeding cost. Strikingly, feeding A. sinensis leaves resulted in a significant decrease in the blood cholesterol levels (2.11 vs. 1.49 mmol/L, p = 0.01) along with a significant increase in the high-density lipoprotein levels (1.42 vs. 1.82 mmol/L, p = 0.01). There was also a tendency to lower the content of low-density lipoprotein levels in goats (0.78 vs. 0.45 mmol/L, p = 0.09). Furthermore, metabolomics analysis demonstrated that the reduction in cholesterol levels occurred in both the serum (0.387-fold change) and muscle (0.382-fold change) of goats during A. sinensis leaf feeding. The metabolic responses to feeding A. sinensis leaves suggest that the activation of lipolysis metabolism might happen in goats. These observed changes would be conducive to improving animal health and meat quality, ultimately benefiting human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Nutritional and organoleptic traits are important components of the meat industry, which can affect consumers' purchasing desire and the processing of meat quality. This study evaluated the effect of feeding system on the muscle fiber characteristics, antioxidant capacity, and nutritional and organoleptic traits of goat meat. It was found that the feeding system had great effect on muscle fiber composition, antioxidant capacity, nutritional value, and organoleptic traits of goat meat, but compared with grazing on mountain range (whole area with about 40% inclination), grazing on flatland (whole area with about 0% inclination) improved the meat nutritional value and quality by altering the myofiber characteristic and antioxidative status. This study assists us in comprehending the influence of diverse feeding systems on nutritional and organoleptic traits of goat meat so as to develop more appropriate measures to retain superior quality of goat meat and provide basic data for the development of goat meat products. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of feeding system on muscle fiber composition, antioxidant capacity, and nutritional and organoleptic traits of goat meat. Goats that grazed on flatland (whole area with about 0% inclination, FG group) and mountain range (whole area with about 40% inclination, MG group) were selected for the analysis. The results showed that grazing on flatland increased oxidized-twitch fiber percentage, the expression of the MyHC IIa gene (p < 0.001), the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) (p < 0.05), total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (p = 0.001), and radical scavenging ability (RSA) (p < 0.05); meanwhile, the MyHC IIb gene expression (p < 0.01) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content (p = 0.001) were decreased. Feeding system affected nutritional and organoleptic traits of goat meat, and grazing on flatland increased protein content, total content of monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), pH45min, a* value, and variety of volatile flavor compounds but decreased the content of saturated fatty acid (SFA), shear force, and b* value. In addition, the key flavor substances were screened using relative odor activity value (ROAV), including hexanal, heptanal, (E)-2-octenal, octanal, nonanal, decanal, (E)-2-nonenal, and 1-octen-3-ol. Among them, 1-octen-3-ol and (E)-2-nonenal were the most contributing flavor compounds in the FG and MG groups, respectively, providing distinctive odor to goat meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Corn is one of the most produced grains in the world, being the primary energy concentrate used in animal feeding due to its nutrition quality and high cultivation potential, which make it the main source of starch in the diets of ruminant animals. We compared three different moisture additives to conserve rehydrated corn-grain silage, namely water, cactus mucilage, and whey, and replaced ground corn (GC) with rehydrated corn-grain silage in the finishing of kids' diet. Cactus pear cladode mucilage was a more efficient moisture additive than water and whey for ground-corn silage. Thus, it is recommended to replace ground corn with rehydrated corn-grain silage with mucilage (RCSmucilage) in 415 g/kg because it provides better animal performance than ground corn (GC)—along with having a similar intake and digestion to it—due to better conservation of the silage at a lower cost when compared to commercial additives. The effects of the replacement of dry ground corn (GC) with corn-grain silage rehydrated with water (RCSwater), cactus pear mucilage (RCSmucilage), and whey (RCSwhey) on the growth, physicochemical composition, and fatty acid profile of goat kids' meat were investigated. Thirty-two crossbred goat kids (16.4 ± 2.50 kg initial weight) were assigned in a randomized block design with four treatments and eight repetitions. The NDF intake of goat kids fed with RCSmucilage was higher in comparison to RCSwater and RCSwhey (p = 0.0009). The dietary replacement of GC by RCSmucilage increased the final weight (p = 0.033) and meat-cooking losses (p = 0.0001) of kids. The concentrations of oleic (p = 0.046), 11,14-eicosadienoic (p = 0.033), and EPA (p = 0.010) were higher in the meat of kids fed with RCSmucilage and RCSwhey, and the α-linolenic concentration was higher (p = 0.019) for animals feeding with RCSmucilage. Meat from kids fed with RCSwhey presented the lowest ∑SFA and the highest ∑MUFA. In contrast, the ∑PUFA (p < 0.012) was higher for goats fed with RCSwater. The ∑ω3 (p < 0.0001) was higher in animals fed with RCSmucilage and RCSwhey. Desirable fatty acids were higher (p = 0.044) in animals fed with RCSmucilage and RCSwhey, and the atherogenicity (p = 0.044) and thrombogenicity (p < 0.0001) indexes were lower for goats fed the RCSwhey diet. The enzymatic activities of Δ9desaturase (C16) were higher (p = 0.027) in goat kids fed with GC and RCSmucilage, and Δ9desaturase (C18) was higher (p = 0.0497) when goats were fed with RCSmucilage and RCSwhey. Elongase activities were higher (p = 0.045) in goat kids fed with GC and RCSwater. The total replacement of GC by RCSmucilage is recommended in the diet of goat kids due to improvements in the weight gain and proportion of desirable fatty acids in the meat. In addition, RCSmucilage promoted better conservation of the silage at a lower cost when compared to commercial additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to examine the effect of a mulberry leaf total mixed ration (TMR) diet on growth performance, apparent digestibility, meat quality and the expression of related meat-quality genes (ADSL, H-FABP) in crossbred black goats. Forty-four Guizhou crossbred black goats (Nubian black goat ♂ × Guizhou black goat ♀), weighing 33.43 ± 0.55 kg, were chosen. The goats were randomly divided into four groups, with 11 test replicates in each group. Group I was the control group and fed with the traditional feeding method of roughage and concentrate supplement without adding mulberry leaf. Group II was fed with a 40% mulberry leaf pellet TMR diet. Group III was fed with a freshly processed 40% mulberry leaf TMR diet. Group IV was fed with a 40% mulberry leaf fermented total mixed rations (FTMR) diet. The results showed that the average daily gain (ADG) of group II was significantly higher than that of group I and III (p < 0.05). The apparent digestibility of group II of ether extract (EE) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) was significantly higher than that of group I (p < 0.05), and the apparent digestibility of dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) was significantly higher than that of group I (p < 0.01). Compared with group I, meat in group II had lower meat color lightness (L*) and yellowness (b*) values (p < 0.01) in the Longissimus thoracis et lumborum. The shear force of group II was significantly lower than that of group I (p < 0.05). The total fatty acids (TFA) of group II was significantly higher than that of groups I and III (p < 0.05), but the total saturated fatty acids (SFA) of group II was significantly lower that than of group I (p < 0.01). Subsequently, the Unsaturated fatty acids (USFA), Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), and Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) of group II were significantly higher than those in group I (p < 0.01). The contents of total amino acids (TAA), total essential amino acids (EAA), total non-essential amino acids (NEAA) and total of major fresh-tasting amino acids (DAA) of groups II, III and IV were significantly higher than those of group I (p < 0.05), as well as the contents of IMP (p < 0.01). The expression of the H-FABP gene in the arm triceps of group II was significantly higher than that of groups I, III and IV (p < 0.05). The expression of the ADSL gene in the Longissimus thoracis et lumborum and biceps femoris of group II was significantly higher than that of group I (p < 0.05). Collectively, the results of the current study indicated that the mulberry leaf TMR diet improved the growth performance, apparent digestibility and expression of related meat-quality master genes (ADSL, H-FABP) in crossbred black goats, which promoted the deposition of intramuscular fat (IMF) and inosinic acid (IMP) and improved the composition of fatty acids and amino acids in the muscles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) should be based on the One Health approach, involving human health, animal health, and the environment. In Ghana, previous studies on AMR have given little attention to animal source food, a major route of transmission of antibiotic-resistant zoonotic pathogens. The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria in meat sold in Accra. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study in which 270 meat samples (90 each of beef, goat meat, and chicken) were collected, and investigated for contamination with multidrug-resistant bacteria. The bacteria were subjected to susceptibility testing against amikacin (30 µg), ampicillin (10 µg), amoxicillin-clavulanate (20/10 µg), cefuroxime (30 µg), ceftriaxone (30 µg), ceftazidime (30 µg), cefepime (30 µg), ciprofloxacin (5 µg), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (1.25/23.75 µg), ertapenem (10 µg), meropenem (10 µg), imipenem (10 µg), tigecycline (15 µg), and gentamicin (10 µg). Results: Thirty-two different types of bacteria, totalling 558, were isolated, the predominant being Escherichia coli (44.6%), Aeromonas hydrophila (19.9%), Vibrio cholerae (3.4%), Aeromonas veronii (3.2%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (3.1%). The prevalence of MDR among the contaminating bacteria was 14.9%. The MDR distribution among the predominant bacteria was Escherichia coli (18.7%), Aeromonas hydrophila (11.1%), Vibrio cholerae and Aeromonas veronii (0.0% each), and K. pneumoniae (5.6%). Moreover, 2.0% of the contaminating bacteria were extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producers, all of which occurred in the chicken samples, and their distribution was: Escherichia coli (1.3%), Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pantoea spp., Enterobacter cloacae, and Serratia plymuthica (0.2% each). Conclusions: The meat samples were heavily contaminated with Escherichia coli and Aeromonas hydrophila, and less frequently, with Vibrio cholerae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and other organisms. The prevalence of multidrug-resistant bacteria was moderate (14.9%), while that of ESBL producers was low (2%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goats are an important livestock and goat meat is essential to local people. The intramuscular fat (IMF) content has a great influence on the quality of goat meat. The intramuscular preadipocytes differentiation is closely related to the IMF deposition; however, its potential regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. CircRNAs were revealed to be involved in multiple biological progressions. In this study, we took primary goat intramuscular preadipocyte (GIMPA) as the study model to verify the function and mechanism of chi-circ_0006511, which was abundant and up-regulated in mature adipocytes (GIMA). The results showed that the expression level of chi-circ_0006511 gradually increased in the early stage of GIMPA differentiation, and chi-circ_0006511 was confirmed to promote GIMPA lipid droplets aggregation and up-regulate the adipogenic differentiation determinants, further promoting GIMPA differentiation. Mechanistically, chi-circ_0006511 exerts its function by sponging novel-miR-87, thereby regulating the expression of CD36. The results from this study provided novel significant information to better understand the molecular regulatory mechanism of intramuscular preadipocytes differentiation, thereby providing a new reference for the intramuscular fat adipogenesis in goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diversified strategies to incorporate healthier lipids in processed meat products are being developed. Alternative fat sources to replace animal fat associated with the reduction of fat content are some of the methods used to obtain healthier meat products well recognized by consumers. In order to create a healthier product that can also be consumed in the Halal and Kosher consumer markets, an experimental study was developed to assess the effects of replacing the pork fat (4%) with the same amount of hydrogel emulsion incorporating olive oil or sunflower oil. Three burgers were randomly selected from each lot manufactured and analyzed in triplicate. Burgers were physicochemical analyzed for pH, water activity, composition, fatty acid profile, color, yield, texture, oxidative stability, and volatile compounds and compared according to the fat source. Burgers with hydrogel emulsions can be considered reduced-fat meat products with a healthier fatty acid profile than pork fat burgers. The use of hydrogel emulsions did not negatively affect the quality characteristics assessed in the product and improved the oxidative stability during the storage of cooked burgers. By the characteristics and formulations evaluated, the replacement of pork fat with olive oil hydrogel emulsion proved to be the most effective strategy for obtaining a healthier goat meat product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The skeletal muscle growth and development affects the production of goat meat. Here, we performed transcriptome sequencing of longissimus dorsi muscle of goats at two development stages (namely, 1-month-old and 9-month-old) by RNA sequencing, assessing the lncRNA expression profile during skeletal muscle development. This study identified regulatory lncRNAs and pathways related to the development of skeletal muscle, providing a reference for future study on the molecular mechanism that regulates the skeletal growth and development. LncRNAs are essential for regulating skeletal muscle. However, the expression profile and function of lncRNAs in goat muscle remains unclear. Here, an average of ~14.58 Gb high-quality reads were obtained from longissimus dorsi tissues of 1-month-old (n = 3) and 9-month-old (n = 3) Wu'an black goats using RNA sequencing. Of a total of 3441 lncRNAs, 1281 were lincRNAs, 805 were antisense lncRNAs, and 1355 were sense_overlapping lncRNAs. These lncRNAs shared some properties with goats, such as fewer exons, shorter transcript, and open reading frames (ORFs) length. Among them, 36 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DE lncRNA) were identified, and then 10 random lncRNAs were validated by RT-qPCR. Furthermore, 30 DE lncRNAs were neighboring 71 mRNAs and several genes were functionally enriched in muscle development-related pathways, such as APC, IFRD1, NKX2-5, and others. Additionally, 36 DE lncRNAs and 2684 mRNAs were included in co-expression interactions. A lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network containing 4 lncRNAs, 3 miRNAs, and 8 mRNAs was finally constructed, of which XR_001296113.2 might regulate PDLIM7 expression by interaction with chi-miR-1296 to affect skeletal muscle development. This study revealed the expression profile of goat lncRNAs for further investigative studies and provides a fuller understanding of skeletal muscle development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes the effect of adding carrot on the nutritional and biological value of canned goat meat. Four batches of canned goat meat were produced: control (without carrot), and three experimental treatments T10, T20, and T30 that was canned goat meat with the addition of 10, 20, and 30% carrot, respectively. Canned goat meat with 30% added carrot had the lowest fat (5.76%) and protein (17.08%) content. The mass fraction of fiber was significantly increased, up to 1.96% in T10, 2.33% in T20, and 2.71% in T30. The same trend was observed for β-carotene content (from 0.78 mg/100 g in the control sample to 1.91 mg/100 g in T30). Among the amino acids, histidine was significantly increased in T30 (p < 0.05), and lysine in T20 and T30 (p < 0.05). There was also evidence of increased vitamin A, B6 (pyridoxine), B9 (folic acid), and B5 (pantothenic acid) content in experimental samples than in the control sample. Among the minerals, the most significant increase was in potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus levels in samples with carrot. Organoleptic evaluation showed differences in color, taste, consistency, and odor. Thus, the addition of carrots increases the nutritive value and improves the palatability of canned goat meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 11 fresh goat legs were collected at the retail level. Mesophiles, Pseudomonas spp., Enterobacteriaceae, staphylococci, enterococci, Clostridium perfringens, Campylobacter spp., and Listeria monocytogenes counts were determined. Nine samples were free of antibiotic residues, while in the other two samples the presence of sulfadiazine and doxycycline was detected. The antimicrobial resistance of E. coli, staphylococci, Macrococcus spp., and enterococci isolates was also evaluated. Clostridium perfringens was found in two samples. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was detected in one sample. S. epidermidis isolated from one sample containing doxycycline residues showed resistance to mupirocin. Moreover, multi-resistant S. epidermidis and M. caseolyticus were found. Most of the isolated Enterococcus faecium were multi-resistant. Neither extended-spectrum β-lactamase -producing E. coli nor vancomycin-resistant enterococci were detected in any sample. The presence of doxycycline or sulfadiazine could affect the goat meat microbiota since less microbial diversity was found in these samples compared to those free of antibiotics. The presence of antibiotic residues could increase the antimicrobial resistance of enterococci in fresh goat meat. The presence of multidrug-resistant bacteria in goat meat could be considered a potential threat and should be monitored. Special measures should be taken at the farm level and during slaughter to reduce antimicrobial resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adulterated, poor-quality, and unsafe foods, including meat, are still major issues for both the food industry and consumers, which have driven efforts to find alternative technologies to detect these challenges. This study evaluated the use of a portable near-infrared (NIR) instrument, combined with chemometrics, to identify and classify individual-intact fresh goat muscle samples. Fresh goat carcasses (n = 35; 19 to 21.7 Kg LW) from different animals (age, breeds, sex) were used and separated into different commercial cuts. Thus, the longissimus thoracis et lumborum, biceps femoris, semimembranosus, semitendinosus, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus muscles were removed and scanned (900–1600 nm) using a portable NIR instrument. Differences in the NIR spectra of the muscles were observed at wavelengths of around 976 nm, 1180 nm, and 1430 nm, associated with water and fat content (e.g., intramuscular fat). The classification of individual muscle samples was achieved by linear discriminant analysis (LDA) with acceptable accuracies (68–94%) using the second-derivative NIR spectra. The results indicated that NIR spectroscopy could be used to identify individual goat muscles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Industrial hemp is currently being investigated as a potential new crop in the U.S. after the passage and approval of the 2014 and 2018 Farm Bills. Hemp plants grow efficiently, and its seeds are used in the production of hemp oil, leaving hempseed meal (HSM) as a byproduct, which is reported to be rich in crude protein (CP) around 30–38% on a dry matter basis and fiber, making it a possible feedstuff and a protein source for ruminants. However, limited work has been carried out to evaluate the effects of utilizing HSM as feedstuffs for goats on their carcass characteristics. This study aims to investigate the effects of feeding various levels of HSM on the carcass traits of the crossbred Boer goats. Results suggest that including up to 30% of HSM in the diet of growing meat goats has no adverse effects on their carcass traits and meat quality. These results might be encouraging for the hemp industry as HSM could potentially be marketed and used as an alternative protein source for livestock. Hempseed meal (HSM) is the byproduct of hemp seeds and is rich in crude protein and fiber, making it an ideal candidate as a feedstuff for ruminants. The objective of the present study is to evaluate the effects of feeding different levels of HSM on the carcass traits of crossbred Boer goats. Forty castrated goat kids (approximately six months, 25.63 ± 0.33 kg) were assigned to one of four treatments (n = 10) in a completely randomized design. Goats were fed pelleted diets (50% forage and 50% concentrate) with additional supplementation of HSM: control with 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% of the total diets. Goats were harvested and processed after a 60-day feeding trial. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the mean values of dressing percentages, carcass weights, body wall thickness, and ribeye area among treatments. Marbling scores and percentages of moisture, fats, proteins, and collagen in the muscles showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) among the treatments. Results suggest that including up to 30% of HSM in the diet of growing meat goats does not affect their carcass traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meat quality dictates consumer preferences with hygiene forming a key component, especially in meat types with declining popularity, such as sheep and goat meat. Aiming to increase the marketability of sheep and goat meat, we examined 370 sheep and goat carcasses from two abattoirs in Greece. Tests included enumeration of the total mesophilic viable count, total psychrophilic viable count and coliform count, and detection of Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes and presumptive ESBL Escherichia coli. Moreover, designated samples of meat were used to measure pH, moisture, total fat and protein content. Goat carcasses had significantly higher microbial counts compared to sheep carcasses. Lamb and kid carcasses had larger TMVC, TPVC and coliform counts compared to carcasses from adult animals. One strain of L. monocytogenes (0.8%), typed as serovar 1/2a (3a), was isolated from one adult sheep carcass. Twelve strains of ESBL Escherichia coli (25%) were isolated; there were not any strains of Salmonella spp. The average values of pH, moisture, total fat and total protein were 5.83%, 67.76%, 7.21% and 21.31%, respectively, for sheep carcasses and 5.70%, 68.2%, 5.69% and 24.10%, respectively, for goat carcasses. The results showed a small deviation in assessed parameters, implying the uniformity of the conditions concerning rearing and slaughtering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sheep and goat meat production includes the increased demand for grass-fed and organic meat and value-added products such as sausages, meatballs, and burgers. Regarding sheep and goat meat products, Teixeira et al. [[1]] present a comprehensive overview of the origin and type of the most important sheep and goat processed meat products produced worldwide. The latter work studied the effect of replacing pork as a source of fat with an olive oleogel in goat meat burgers, with the aim of modifying and improving the meat's fatty acid profile. [Extracted from the article]

Simple Summary: Anaplasmosis is an important tick-borne disease caused by Anaplasma spp., significantly threating public health safety and breeding industry. The present study reported the occurrence of Anaplasma infection among dairy, cashmere, and meat goats in Shaanxi province, northwestern China, with the total prevalence of 58.5% (298/509) in goats. Anaplasma phagocytophilum, A. bovis, and A. ovis were the dominant species in meat, dairy, and cashmere goats, respectively, with the absence of A. ovis in meat goats. Furthermore, the different influencing factors (production categories, species, regions, and ages) were analyzed, and statistically significant differences were found. Frequent occurrence of Anaplasma in this study indicated One Health-based intervention approaches were urgently needed to block the transmission between humans and animals. Anaplasma spp. are important tick-borne pathogens endangering the health of humans and various animals. Although several studies have reported Anaplasma infection in livestock in China, little is known about the impact of production categories on the occurrence of Anaplasma species. In the present study, PCR tools targeting the 16S rRNA and msp4 genes were applied to investigate the prevalence of Anaplasma spp. in 509 blood samples of dairy (n = 249), cashmere (n = 139), and meat (n = 121) goats from Shaanxi province. The prevalence of Anaplasma spp. was 58.5% (298/509) in goats, and significant differences (p < 0.001) were identified in the prevalence among production categories, with the highest in meat goats (84.3%, 102/121), followed by cashmere goats (58.3%, 81/139) and dairy goats (46.2%, 115/249). Significant differences (p < 0.001) in prevalence were also found among sampling sites and age groups. Meanwhile, the prevalence was 36.9% (188/509) for A. phagocytophilum, 36.1% (184/509) for A. bovis, and 11.0% (56/509) for A. ovis, and significant differences (p < 0.001) in prevalence of A. phagocytophilum, A. bovis and A. ovis were recognized among production categories and sampling sites. A. phagocytophilum, A. bovis and A. ovis were dominant species in meat, dairy, and cashmere goats, respectively, and A. ovis was absent in meat goats. Co-infections were found in 124 (24.4%) investigated samples. Goats aged < 2, 3–6, and 7–12 months, and goats from Qingjian and Zhenba were risk factors associated with the occurrence of Anaplasma. Phylogenetic analysis indicated separate clades for the distribution of A. phagocytophilum from different ruminant, reflecting potential host adaption within this species. This study reported the colonization occurrence of Anaplasma spp. among production categories in goats in Shaanxi province and enriched our knowledge on the transmission of Anaplasma spp. in goats in China. Considering the existence of zoonotic A. phagocytophilum in goats in this study and previous reports, interventions based on One Health are needed to be developed to control the transmission of Anaplasma spp. between humans and animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Italian agrifood sector, one observes heterogeneity in the types of quality certification processes. This heterogeneity cannot be explained by standard governance theories like transaction costs economics (TCE). We use the governance value analysis (GVA) perspective that synthesizes TCE and a resources-based view (RBV), to suggest that the observed heterogeneity in organizational forms is a result of heterogeneous differentiating strategies that farms have pursued in the face of competitive pricing pressures. To empirically test GVA, data are obtained using a survey methodology on lamb meat produced by local farms in the Abruzzo region of Italy, challenged by price-costs squeeze. Our empirical test evidences the relevance of the adopted approach, enlightening different organizational arrangements, strictly linked to both the strategic positioning and to the farms' resources and core competencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quality and safety are important challenges in traditional fermented sausage technology. Consequently, the development of a tailored starter culture based on indigenous microbiota constitutes an interesting alternative. In the present study, spontaneously fermented goat meat sausageswere created and analyzed using a physicochemical andmicrobiological approach. Thereafter 170 lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains were isolated and preliminary characterized by phenotypic assays. The hygienic and technological properties, and growth and fermentative potential of isolates using a goat-meat-based culture medium were evaluated. All strains proved to have bioprotective features due to their acidogenic metabolism. Almost all grew optimally in meat environments. LAB isolates presented proteolytic activity against meat proteins and enriched amino acid contents of the goat-meat-based model. The most efficient strains were four different Lactobacillus sakei isolates, as identified by genotyping and RAPD analysis. L. sakei strains are proposed as optimal candidates to improve the production of fermented goat meat sausages, creating a new added-value fermented product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goat "sarapatel" is a product made from blood and viscera. For the first time, the microbiological and nutritional quality of "sarapatel" samples (n = 48) sold under different conditions (in street markets, butcher shops, and supermarkets under refrigeration, frozen or at room temperature) was evaluated. Goat "sarapatel" is a nutritive food, with each 100 g providing, on average, 72 g of moisture, 2 g of ash, 18 g of protein, 9 g of lipids, 2 g of carbohydrates, 282 mg of cholesterol, and high amounts of unsaturated fatty acids and essential amino acids. The analysis of the "sarapatel" samples shows that none of them contain Salmonella spp. or L. monocytogenes. High counts (>104) of total coliforms, thermotolerant coliforms, and sulfite-reducing Clostridium were detected, and coagulase-positive Staphylococcus was found in 31.25% of samples. The storage conditions evaluated (refrigeration, frozen or at room temperature) did not affect the physicochemical quality of the "sarapatel"; however, the unsatisfactory microbiological quality indicates that it is necessary to improve the health-sanitary aspects of the processing and sale of this product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper evaluates the concentrations of water- and fat-soluble precursors of meat flavour, with the aim of characterising the effect of species on the volatile profile of grilled goat and lamb meat. Compared to goat, lamb meat had higher levels of saturated fatty acids-SFA, monounsaturated fatty acids-MUFA and polyunsaturated fatty acids- PUFA and similar levels of sugars and free amino acids, except for lysine and glycine, which were higher in goat. Major differences were detected in lipid-derived volatiles; only pyrazine, thiazole, and some Strecker aldehydes were at different concentrations in these species. Volatile compounds derived from the oxidation of linoleic acid were at higher levels in meat from lamb due to the higher concentration of the latter, while compounds formed from α-linolenic acid were at higher levels in goat. It can be concluded that lamb meat has a stronger flavour profile compared to goat meat because it has the highest concentrations of lipid-derived volatile compounds, primarily straight saturated alkanals, pyrazines and thiazole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The study aimed to compare the carcass measurements and the quality and composition of meat from male kids of the Polish Carpathian native goat breed slaughtered at the ages of 9 and 12 months. A dressing percentage was higher in older kids than in younger ones, as well as final weight and cold carcass weight. The weight of valuable cuts differed between groups, and it was significantly higher in 1-year-old kids. No differences were found in basic ingredients, such as moisture, protein, ash and vitamins A and E, depending on the kids' slaughter age. Significant differences occurred in relation to the physicochemical parameters, fatty acid profile and organoleptic properties. Roasted meat from the Carpathian kids scored high marks in the organoleptic assessment and the meat obtained from older animals was rated higher. The native breed of Carpathian goats, once abundant in the foothills of Poland, practically died out and was replaced by other, more efficient breeds. As a result of reintroduction activities and its inclusion in the genetic resources program, breeding was restored. The dynamically developing population of Carpathian goats is an extremely valuable element of biodiversity and a potential for the development of the market for its products, including goat meat. The study aimed to compare the carcass measurements and the quality and composition of meat from male kids of the Polish Carpathian native goat breed slaughtered at the ages of 9 and 12 months. Muscle samples were taken from the leg (m. biceps femoris) to determine the meat chemical composition and physicochemical and sensory parameters, as well as the fatty acid profile. The dressing percentage was higher in older kids (41.27%) than in younger ones (37.89%), as well as final weight and cold carcass weight. The weight of valuable cuts such as the loin and leg differed between groups, and it was significantly higher in 1-year-old kids. No differences were found in basic ingredients, such as moisture, protein, ash and vitamins A and E, depending on the kids' slaughter age. The fat concentration was significantly higher in the group of younger kids. Significant differences occurred in relation to the physicochemical parameters, fatty acid profile and organoleptic properties. The findings demonstrated that the meat of older kids was characterised by darker colour and a slightly higher pH, and it contained a higher concentration of hypocholesterolemic fatty acids (DFA) and a more favourable DFA/OFA ratio. Roasted meat from the Carpathian kids scored high marks in the organoleptic assessment and the meat obtained from older animals was rated higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]