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Ninety Hanwoo steers (initial BW = 167.2±13.4 kg) were used to determine the effect of energy concentrations in concentrates and slaughter age on performance, carcass characteristics. Steers were allotted by BW to one of eighteen pens. Eighteen pens were randomly allotted to a low (70-70-71-72% for the growing, the early, the middle or the late fattening periods), medium (70-71-72-73%) or high (70-72- 73-74%) TDN level of concentrates. Five steers for each treatment of energy level were slaughtered every one month from 26 month of age to 31 month of age. Concentrates was fed restrictedly to achieve a predicted gain of 0.7~0.9 kg from growing stage to middle fattening stage. All steers were fed orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata L.) hay as roughage during the growing period, fed rice straw gradually substituted for orchard grass hay during the early fattening period, and fed rice straw only thereafter. Overall body weight and feed intake were not affected by TDN levels of concentrates. Average daily gain for all treatments was higher than 0.9 kg/d during the 19~21 month of age and decrease thereafter, but sustained above 0.7 kg/d. Mean concentrates intake for all treatments was 1.0~1.3% of live BW during the growing period and 1.5% during the early fattening. Thereafter, it decreased up to 1.4% during the middle fattening and 1.0% during late fattening period. Delay of slaughter end point resulted in a gradual increase of rib-eye area, back fat thickness and marbling score, especially after slaughter age of 29 month there was significant increases (P

Majumdar, S., Bhanja, S.K., Singh, R.P. and Agarwal, S.K.2005. Effect of age on the carcass traits and meat quality of turkey poults. J. Appl. Anim. Res., 27: 85–88. To study the slaughter age effect on carcass characteristics and meat composition 8 poults from each age group ie. 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 weeks were slaughtered. There was a progressive increase in ready-to-cook (eviscerated carcass including giblets) yield from 71.2% at 6th week to 77.9% at 14th week of age. Bony parts viz. back, neck and wings showed a decline, whereas, thigh part increased with increasing age of birds. Although the breast portion of turkey had higher proportion of meat (80.2%) than thighs (77%) at 6th week of age, the same tended to a progressive decline with a corresponding increase in thigh meat yield during subsequent growing periods. No consistent trends were observed in the meat yields of bony parts such as back, wings and neck. Shear force values of both leg and breast meat progressively increased with increase...

The present study was carried out to determine the influence of dietary probiotic (115-Biogallinox; containing Saccharomyces cerevisiae at 4 x 10 colony forming units/g) on growth, slaughter and carcass 8 characteristics of broilers slaughtered at different ages (35, 42 and 49 days). Day-old male Ross-308 chicks (n = 336) were weighed and randomly assigned to three dietary treatment groups [P (control): 0 g 0 probiotic/kg; P : 1 g probiotic and P : 2 g probiotic/kg] as a 3x3 factorial arrangement. Each treatment group 1 2 was replicated eight times as subgroups, comprising of 14 birds each. The broiler chickens were grown on starter (0 to 21 days) and finisher (to 35, 42 and 49 days) diets calculated to meet NRC recommendations. Body weight and feed consumption were determined weekly during the study. Means to slaughter age of body weight, daily weight gain, daily feed consumption, feed efficiency and mortality were 2524.5, 50.7, 94.4 g, 1.86 and 1.8% for P group; 2559.1, 51.4, 94.8 g, 1.85 and 0.0% for P group; 2548.3, 51.2, 95.9 g, 1.88 and 0 1 1.8% for P group, respectively. None of the live performance variables investigated differed significantly 2 between control and probiotic treatment. Similarly, probiotic treatment had no effect on the hot and cold carcass weight, carcass yield and the weight of carcass cuts and the abdominal fat pad. Means for these slaughter variables were 1543.8, 1521.3 g, 74.0, 73.4%, 31.0 g for P group; 1561.1, 1539.4 g, 74.2, 73.6%, 0 30.2 g for P group; 1558.7, 1535.2 g, 74.1, 73.5% and 31.0 g for P group, respectively. However, slaughter 1 2 age had a highly significant effect on the final body weight slaughter variables mentioned above. In this experiment probiotic supplementation of broilers, up to the level of 4 x 10 colony forming units/kg feed, did 8 not significantly affect the live performance and slaughter variables investigated.

Fifty-one crossbreed young bulls, progenies of Charolais (CH), Czech Pied (CP), Simmental (SI) and Blonde d'Aquitaine (BA) beef cattle bred at the paternal position crossed by Czech Pied at the maternal position, were reared in a typical production system and slaughtered at an average age of 578 days and live weight of 656 kg. The animals were evaluated for fattening performance and carcass quality traits (live weight at slaughter, age at slaughter, total weight gain, carcass weight, dressing percentage, net daily gain) and meat quality characteristics (dry matter, proteins, fat, ash, pH 48 , water holding capacity, remission, collagen, area of M. longissimus dorsi and cooking loss). Correlation coefficients were determined in order to discover which of the above-mentioned characteristics influenced textural properties measured by Warner-Bratzler (WB) shear device and compression test (TPA). It can be concluded from the overall assessment of the correlation coefficients that slaughter age (r = 0.68, P < 0.001), net daily gain (r = -0.54, P < 0.001), average lifetime daily gain (r = -0.50, P < 0.001) and pH 48 (r = -0.51, P < 0.001) had the major influence on the textural properties measured by WB shears. Meat texture expressed by TPA was mainly influenced by live weight at slaughter (r = 0.55, P < 0.001), carcass weight (r = 0.50, P < 0.001) and pH 48 (r = -0.54, P < 0.001). Significant differences (P < 0.001) were found out for the age at slaughter (CH × BA) and (CP × BA), slaughter weight (CP × SI) and (CP × BA) and carcass weight (CP × BA). At the same level of significance further differences were found out for pH 48 and water holding capacity (CP × SI), (CP × BA) and cooking loss (CH × CP). Highly significant differences (P < 0.01) in the textural properties (measured by WB shears) were determined between the following breeds: (CH × BA) and (CP × BA). At the level of significance P < 0.05, the highest differences were identified between (CH × SI) and (CP × SI). TPA test showed statistically significant differences between (CH × CP), (CP × SI) breeds at the level P < 0.05.

Foram avaliados os aspectos qualitativos da carne de cordeiros Santa Inês submetidos, na fase de terminação, a sistemas de alimentação diferenciados. Foram analisadas 24 pernas de cordeiros não-castrados, com idade de abate entre seis e dez meses, distribuídos eqüitativamente segundo as dietas recebidas: T1 = feno de capim-d'água + concentrado, T2 = feno de restolho de abacaxi + concentrado, T3 = palma + mistura, T4 = silagem de milho + concentrado. A utilização de quatro tipos de alimentos volumosos exerceu influência significativa sobre os teores de composição centesimal, cálcio, fósforo, colesterol, fosfolipídios, ácidos graxos saturados e poliinsaturados e nos parâmetros sensoriais da carne de ovinos Santa Inês. Os cordeiros alimentados com volumosos energéticos (T1, T2 e T4) apresentaram carnes com maiores concentrações lipídicas em (6,93; 8,09 e 8,38%, respectivamente), melhor qualidade sensorial e maiores percentuais de ácidos graxos monoinsaturados (C18:1, C16:1, com médias de 41,38; 46,40; 43,15 e 3,44; 3,34; e 2,76%, respectivamente). O uso de palma forrageira (T3) na alimentação dos cordeiros resultou em uma carne com teores de umidade, proteínas, fósforo, cálcio, colesterol e ácidos graxos saturados significativamente maiores em relação aos demais volumosos (T1, T2 e T4), porém com qualidade sensorial inferior. This study had the objective of evaluating the qualitative aspects of lamb meat from Santa Ines breed when submitted in the termination phase to different feeding systems. Twenty four legs from entire lambs with slaughter age from six to ten months were equally distributed among four different diets: T1 = capim-d'água hay + concentrate, T2 = pineapple hay + concentrate, T3 = forage palm + mixture, T4 = maize ensilage hay + concentrate. The utilization of four different forager feeds resulted in significant difference among the percentages of centesimal composition, calcium, phosphorus, cholesterol, and phospholipid, saturated and unsaturated fatty acids and in the sensorial parameters of lamb meat. Lambs fed diet with high-energy forage (T1, T2 and T3) had meat with the highest percentages of fat (6.93, 8.09 and 8.38%, respectively), and monosaturated fatty acids (C18:1, C16:1, with average of 41.38, 46.40 and 43.15 and 3.44, 3.34 and 2.76%, respectively), associated to a better sensorial quality. The use of forager palm (T3) in lamb feeding resulted in lamb meat with higher percentages of humidity, protein, phosphorus, calcium, cholesterol and saturated fatty acids in comparison with the others treatments (T1, T2 and T4), although this lamb meat had lower sensorial quality in relation to the meat obtained from the others treatments.

The objectives of this work was to investigate the effects of feeding type of concentrates during growing pe- riod and slaughter age on growth performance, feed efficiency and carcass characteristics in growing-fattening Holstein steers. Treatments were two concentrates feeding types(ad libitum or restricted 1.9 % of BW) and three slaughter ages(at 19, 22 or 25 mo). Body weight at slaughter was numerically higher(approx. 8.3 %) for the restricted than the ad libitum feeding groups. TDN intake rate was higher(8.4 %) for the restricted than the ad libitum feeding groups. One mo slaughter delay increased TDN intake by 4%. Despite the lack of significances, higher back fat thickness and rib-eye area appeared in the restricted feeding or the late slaughter groups compared with the ad libitum feed- ing or the early slaughter groups. Marbling score(mean 2.46) numerically increased when the steers were re- strictively fed concentrates compared with the ad libitum feeding groups. In addition, significant increases in the marbling score were associated with the slaughter age delay. In economic analysis, increases in total in- come were associated with the restricted feeding and the slaughter age delay. Whereas the highest monthly in- come appeared in the restricted feeding-and-slaughter at 22 mo group. In conclusion, the optimal feeding system may be 1) the restricted concentrates feeding(1.9 % of BW) during growing period and 2) the late slaughter age(22 ~ 25 mo of age) in growing-fattening Holstein steers fed rice straw.

A nineteen week experiment was conducted to evaluate a newly developed strain of toms, (British United Turkeys of America T2), compared to the currently available strains from other genetic sources (Hybrid Converter and Nicholas 700). The T2 strain grew more slowly during the brooding (0 to 5-wk) stage compared to the other two strains. At both slaughter ages (17 and 19 wk), the T2 birds were the heaviest and Nicholas 700 toms were heavier than Hybrid Converter toms. Feed conversion was not significantly different between strains at slaughter ages. Livability was higher for the Hybrid toms compared to the other two strains. Toms were selected for carcass component analysis based upon similar weights across strains at 17 wk and average BW for each strain at 19 wk of age. Regardless of slaughter age, breast yield was higher and thigh and drumstick yield were lower for T2 toms compared to the other two strains. Wing yield was consistently lower and breast skin was higher for Hybrid toms. Mortality due to cardiovascular disease was higher for Nicholas 700 toms due primarily to round heart incidence from 2 to 5 wk of age. The T2 tom strain reached market weight earlier and yielded more premium priced meat than other commercial strains at heavy market weights.

The effect of selection for growth rate on carcass and meat quality was assessed by comparing selected and control populations of rabbits measured at the same stage of maturity and slaughtered at 9 and 13 wk of age. Embryos belonging to Generation 7 were frozen, thawed, and implanted in does to produce the control group. The control group was formed from the offspring of the embryos belonging to the Generation 7. Selected animals belonging to Generation 18 (S) were compared with contemporary animals of the control group (C). Carcasses were dissected and measured according to World Rabbit Science Association recommended practices. When animals were compared at similar degrees of maturity, selection for growth rate did not produce a negative effect on carcass and meat quality. There was no increase in fat content of the carcass, and there was an improvement of the meat:bone ratio with selection, with a difference between C and S groups of -0.42. However, the carcasses of S animals have 1.45% lower water-holding capacity. Carcass quality changed markedly with animal age. Heavy rabbit carcasses had lower organ percents and a higher loin percent. Dissectible and i.m. fat content were higher in older rabbits, with older animals having 0.97 and 0.79% more dissectible and i.m. fat content, respectively. Meat quality traits improved with age of slaughter, although there was an increase in glycolytic metabolism. Results from this study indicate that selection for growth rate has little effect in carcass and meat quality when rabbits are measured at the same stage of maturity.

The effects of slaughter age, breed type and postmortem period were studied on the concentrations of free amino acids (FAA) and dipeptides (carnosine and anserine) in Longissimus dorsi muscle of beef. Slaughter age affected the levels of most FAA and dipeptides, and the concentrations of these compounds were significantly lower at 35 months of age than either 15 or 25 months of age. Slight increases were observed at 25 months compared with 15 months, but the differences were not significant except for a few FAA. These tendencies still remained when the concentrations were recalculated on the basis of protein. A significant breed effect was observed for taurine, carnosine and anserine. Almost all FAA were significantly increased during postmortem conditioning, but the level of each FAA fluctuated, and the fluctuations could not be explained statistically by slaughter age or breed differences.

SUMMARY Nutritional and environmental conditions influence broiler flock performance. Besides these factors, other less-well-understood factors, such as incubating egg characteristics, affect the embryonic life of chicks. This study demonstrated that egg storage depressed egg albumen Haugh units (HU) and chick quality; these effects of storage were greater in egg and chicks from old breeders. Absolute weight gains (AG) during the first 7 d of rearing were negatively affected by storage and age of breeders. However, the effect of storage was more obvious in chicks from eggs of younger breeders. Field reports indicate that chick weights during the first 2 wk of rearing were lower for chicks from eggs of younger hens but were not affected by the storage time. At the end of the third week, chicks from fresh eggs were heavier than those from eggs stored for 7 d, and this difference increased until 42 d. During the same period, age of hens did not affect broiler weights. Average daily weight gain (ADG) was negatively affected from the end of fourth or fifth week of rearing by egg storage or increasing age of hens, respectively. There was a significant positive relationship between 7- to 35-d-old weights and broiler weights at slaughter age (42 d). It was concluded that growth potential of chicks 1 d posthatch is partly linked to the incubating egg quality and other characteristics that can be linked to the physiological stage of breeders (e.g., age).

Nineteen chicken flocks from ten broiler farms were studied for the colonization of Campylobacter. A variety of factors such as farm location and chicken house structure, water source, rearing practice and hygiene management were investigated. Each flock was sampled weekly, from day-old-chicks to slaughter- age chickens and environmental samples which include water, feed, wood shavings, flies and chicken house environment were collected to examine for the presence of Campylobacter. In all farms, Campylobacter was not detected in one- and seven-day-old chicks. Campylobacter was first detected in 38.2% of 14-day-old-chicks and 45.3% of 21-day-old chickens. Samples of feed, wood shavings, flies and chicken house environment were all negative while only 1.5% of untreated water supplies were found positive for campylobacters. Prevalence of campylobacter s' colonization was possibly associated with untreated water, presence of other animals and unhygienic management practices; also flying birds could be a source as they were found to harbour campylobacters; in one farm where 'fishing net' was placed over the chicken house to prevent birds from entering, Campylobacter was not isolated in the chickens up t o slaughter age.

O experimento foi conduzido na Estação Experimental da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, município de Eldorado do Sul, Brasil, a fim de avaliar o desempenho de 40 bezerros filhos de vacas cruzas Bos indicus x Bos taurus até os dois anos de idade, desmamados precocemente (DP), com média de idade de 91 dias e mínimo de 70 kg de peso vivo, ou desmamados à idade convencional (DC), média de 170 dias de idade e peso médio de 131,2 kg, suplementados (Su) ou não (NSu) com ração energético-protéica com 14% de proteína bruta e 75% de nutrientes digestíveis totais, durante 91 dias no primeiro inverno. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o delineamento completamente casualizado. Os novilhos do DP foram mais leves até um ano de idade (DP=208,7 kg x DC=233,5 kg). Aos 18-20 meses de idade, os novilhos não eram mais estatisticamente diferentes em seus pesos vivos (DP=279,9 kg x DC=292,5 kg). Ao abate, os pesos vivos médios foram de 432,3 kg (DC) e 414,0 kg (DP), não diferindo também no rendimento, acabamento, conformação e classificação das carcaças. O desmame precoce não impediu o desenvolvimento e o abate dos novilhos aos dois anos de idade. A suplementação no primeiro inverno não alterou o desempenho dos novilhos ao abate. The experiment run at the Agronomic Experimental Station of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, located in the district of Eldorado do Sul, Brazil, to evaluate the performance of 40 crossbred Bos indicus x Bos taurus calves until two years old, early weaned (EW) with average age of 91 days and minimum liveweight of 70 kg, or weaned at conventional age (CW), averaging 170 days old and liveweight of 131.2 kg, supplemented (Su) or not (NSu) with energy-protein diet with 14% crude protein and 75% total digestible nutrients during 91 days in the first winter. A completely randomized experimental design was used. EW steers were lighter at one year of age (EW=208.7 kg x CW=233.5 kg). Steers with 18-20 months of age were not different in average liveweight (EW=279.9 kg x CW=292.5 kg). Steers were slaughtered at average liveweights of CW= 432.3 kg and EW=414.0 kg. Early weaning did not affect performance and carcass characteristics of steers with two years old. Supplementation in the first winter also did not affect performance of steers at slaughter.

Análises do perfil aromático da carne caprina cozida de animais mestiços foram realizadas utilizando-se animais castrados e inteiros, abatidos com idades de 175, 220, 265 e 310 dias. O perfil aromático da carne caprina foi constituído por 108 voláteis, sendo que 69 foram positivamente identificados e 39 parcialmente caracterizados utilizando-se análises de CG-EM. O perfil aromático da carne caprina foi formado por hidrocarbonetos alifáticos e alicíclicos, aldeídos, compostos benzênicos, álcoois, cetonas, terpenóides, ésteres e compostos heterocíclicos sulfurados, hexadecanal, benzeno, heptano e octadecanal foram os voláteis que apresentaram os maiores índices de abundância relativa. Nas análises quantitativa e qualitativa observaram-se uma predominância de voláteis nos extratos de carne de caprinos castrados. O número total de voláteis e a abundância relativa das diferentes classes de compostos não foram claramente afetados pelo fator idade de abate.The volatile profile of cooked goat meat was analysed using meat from castrated and intact animals slaughtered at 175, 220, 265 and 310 days. A total of 108 volatiles was detected and from them 69 was identified and a further 39 were partially characterised by GC-MS. The volatile profile was composed by hydrocarbons aliphatic and alicyclic, aldehydes, benzenoid compounds, alcohols, ketones, terpenoids, esters and sulfur compounds. Hexadecanal, benzen, heptane and octadecanal were among the volatiles with highest relative abundance. In both qualitative and quantitative analyses extracts from castrated meat had higher production of volatiles. The total number and the relative abundance of different classes of compounds seemed not to be cleared affected by slaughter age factor.

Submitted by Guilherme Lemeszenski (guilherme@nead.unesp.br) on 2013-08-22T19:06:35Z No. of bitstreams: 1 S1516-35982003000800022.pdf: 71453 bytes, checksum: 65500b6bb70d2baa3441f7d347d26d94 (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2013-08-22T19:06:35Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 S1516-35982003000800022.pdf: 71453 bytes, checksum: 65500b6bb70d2baa3441f7d347d26d94 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2003-12-01 Made available in DSpace on 2013-09-30T18:27:10Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 S1516-35982003000800022.pdf: 71453 bytes, checksum: 65500b6bb70d2baa3441f7d347d26d94 (MD5) S1516-35982003000800022.pdf.txt: 51673 bytes, checksum: 5a708e6918027d4cb2863c197f2b1f10 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2003-12-01 Submitted by Vitor Silverio Rodrigues (vitorsrodrigues@reitoria.unesp.br) on 2014-05-20T13:40:33Z No. of bitstreams: 2 S1516-35982003000800022.pdf: 71453 bytes, checksum: 65500b6bb70d2baa3441f7d347d26d94 (MD5) S1516-35982003000800022.pdf.txt: 51673 bytes, checksum: 5a708e6918027d4cb2863c197f2b1f10 (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2014-05-20T13:40:33Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 S1516-35982003000800022.pdf: 71453 bytes, checksum: 65500b6bb70d2baa3441f7d347d26d94 (MD5) S1516-35982003000800022.pdf.txt: 51673 bytes, checksum: 5a708e6918027d4cb2863c197f2b1f10 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2003-12-01 O objetivo do presente trabalho foi verificar o efeito da suplementação das ovelhas sobre a época da desmama, na produção de cordeiros superprecoces e no ciclo reprodutivo da mãe. Foram utilizadas 66 fêmeas da raça Hampshire Down, com idade entre 3 e 4 anos, e seus respectivos produtos, mantidos em pastagem de gramínea e alimentados em creep-feeding com ração concentrada. As ovelhas foram distribuídas em suplementadas (n=34) e não suplementadas (n=32) durante a lactação. Os cordeiros foram distribuídos ao acaso em quatro tratamentos: T1- cordeiros desmamados aos 34 dias (n=16) com ovelhas suplementadas; T2 - cordeiros desmamados aos 62 dias (n=18) com ovelhas suplementadas; T3 - cordeiros desmamados aos 34 dias de idade (n=16), com ovelhas não suplementadas e;T4 - cordeiros desmamados aos 62 dias (n=16) com ovelhas não suplementadas. O delineamento experimental foi o de blocos ao acaso, com arranjo fatorial 2x2. Os cordeiros dos tratamentos T2 e T4 tiveram ganhos de peso significativamente maiores que os desmamados aos 34 dias (T1 e T3). O peso à desmama aos 62 dias foi significativamente maior nos cordeiros de mães não suplementadas e os cordeiros foram abatidos mais cedo que os de ovelhas suplementadas. Os rendimentos de carcaça e o índice de compacidade foram superiores nos cordeiros desmamados aos 62 dias. Não houve diferença significativa na gordura de cobertura. Houve efeito de suplementação das mães na maciez da carne dos cordeiros. Não houve diferença significativa nos pesos das mães à desmama, mas houve diferença entre o peso ao parto e à desmama . A suplementação materna e a idade de desmama, nas condições do experimento, não interferiram na capacidade reprodutiva das matrizes. The objective of this experiment was to verify the effect of weaning age and ewe supplementation on the production of super-young lambs and on the reproductive cycle of dams. Sixty-six Hampshire Down ewes, ranging between 3 and 4 years of age, were kept with their lambs on grass pasture. All lambs were creep fed. The ewes were either supplemented (n=34) or not (n=32) during lactation. The lambs were randomly allocated to four treatments: T1 - weaned from supplemented dams at 34 days of age (n=16); T2 - weaned from supplemented dams at 62 days (n=18); T3 - weaned from not supplemented dams at 34 days (n=16); T4 - weaned from not supplemented dams at 62 days (n=16). A 2 x 2 factorial arrangement was used in a randomized block design. Lambs from T2 and T4 showed higher weight gains than those weaned at days 34 (T1 and T3). Weight at day 62 was higher and slaughter age lower in lambs weaned from not supplemented mothers. Carcass yield and compactness index were higher in the lambs weaned at day 62. Dam supplementation increased meat tenderness. No difference was observed in backfat thickness. No difference was observed in weight dams at weaning, but difference between body weight of dam at parturition and at weaning weight was observed. Neither dam supplementation nor lamb weaning age showed any effect on dam reproductive efficiency. UNESP FMVZ Zootecnia UNESP FMVZ Departamento de Melhoramento Zootécnico e Nutrição Animal UNESP IB Departamento de Química e Bioquímica Pós-Graduação em Zootecnia da FMVZ- UNESP- Botucatu Departamento de Melhoramento Zootécnico e Nutrição Animal da FMVZ - UNESP- Botucatu Departamento de Química e Bioquímica do IB-UNESP- Botucatu

Barrows and gilts (n = 128) from four breed crosses were used to investigate the effect of age at slaughter on carcass traits, proteolytic enzyme activity, and meat and fat quality. Pigs were blocked by breed cross into four blocks, and within blocks, one pen (eight barrows and eight gilts) was assigned randomly to be slaughtered at either 8 or 10 mo of age. Pigs were fed a corn-barley-soybean meal finisher diet from 104 +/- 2.5 d of age (37.7 +/- 0.33 kg BW) to the appropriate slaughter age. Carcasses from older (10 mo) pigs had lower (P < 0.01) muscularity indexes and lean cut yields than those of younger (8 mo) pigs, but dressing percentage and longissimus muscle area increased (P < 0.01) with age. Older pigs produced a redder (P < 0.01) and darker (P < 0.05) semimembranosus, with lower (P < 0.01) ultimate pH and cathepsin B and B + L activities, as well as higher (P < 0.01) aminopeptidase hydrolyzing activity than younger pigs. Moreover, the longissimus muscle of pigs slaughtered at 10 mo of age had lower (P < 0.01) drip and cooking loss percentages than that from pigs slaughtered at 8 mo of age. Ham subcutaneous fat from 10-mo-old pigs had greater (P < 0.05) percentages of oleic acid and lower (P < 0.01) proportions of moisture, linoleic, and linolenic acids than subcutaneous fat from pigs slaughtered at 8 mo of age. Results from this study indicate that fresh hams from pigs slaughtered at 10 mo of age would be more suitable for the production of high-quality, Italian, dry-cured hams.

Foram determinados peso vivo ao início do período de terminação (PIT), ganho médio diário (GMD), peso de abate (PA), peso de carcaça fria (CAR), rendimento de carcaça fria (REN), espessura de gordura subcutânea (EGS) e idade de abate em dias (IA) de 32 novilhos Braford, machos castrados, previamente desmamados aos 100 (Desmame precoce - DP) ou 180 (Desmame convencional - DC) dias de idade e abatidos aos 13-14 meses de idade. Entre o DC (06/03/01) até o início do período de terminação (09/08/01), quando passaram para uma pastagem melhorada de azevém (Lolium multiflorum L.), os bezerros permaneceram em uma área de resteva de lavoura de arroz. A partir de 04/09/01, os bezerros receberam uma suplementação energética, à base de sorgo moído, até o abate, em novembro de 2001. Os animais foram abatidos conforme avaliação visual da gordura de acabamento, independentemente do peso vivo. Os novilhos do DP tiveram PIT significativamente inferior aos novilhos do DC (182,8 kg vs. 240,5 kg). Entretanto, o GMD foi significativamente superior para os novilhos DP, sendo as médias ajustadas 1,399 e 1,269 kg/dia para DP e DC, respectivamente. O PA e o CAR foram significativamente inferiores para os novilhos do DP em relação aos novilhos do DC (328,8 e 359,4 kg de peso vivo e 174,0 e 186,7 kg de carcaça fria para DP e DC, respectivamente). Os novilhos do DP tiveram REN significativamente superiores (52,9%) aos novilhos do DC (51,9%). Não houve efeito da idade de desmame sobre a EGS, sendo 4,91 e 4,95 mm para o DP e DC, respectivamente. A IA foi influenciada pela idade ao desmame. Os novilhos do DP foram abatidos, em média, com 430,1 dias, enquanto os novilhos do DC foram abatidos, em média, com 416,9 dias de idade.Live weight at the beginning of the finishing period (IFW), average daily gain (ADG), slaughter weight (SW), cold carcass weight (CCW), carcass dressing percentage (DP), subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT) and slaughter age in days (SA) of 32 castrated males Braford, previously weaned at 100 (EW) or 180 days (CW) and slaughtered at 13-14 months old, were evaluated. From CW (03/06/01) until the beginning of finishing period (08/09/01), when passed to an improved pasture of ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum L.), the calves were maintened on a rice (Oryza sativa) post-harvested paddock. From 09/04/01, the calves had a supplementary feeding, basically Sorghum vulgare, until the slaughters in november. The steers were slaughtered according the visual fatness, independently of the liveweight. The EW steers had IFW significantly lower than the CW steers (182,8 kg vs. 240.5 kg). However, the ADG was significant greater for EW steers, with adjusted means as 1.399 and 1.269 kg/day for EW and CW, respectively. SW and CCW were lighter for EW steers (328.8 and 359.4 of live weight and 174.0 and 186.7 kg of cold carcass for EW and CW, respectively. The EW steers had greater DP (52.9%) than CW steers (51.9%). No differences were observed between treatments for SFT, being 4.91 and 4.95 mm for EW and CW, respectively. SA was affected by age at weaning, with EW steers slaughtered at 430.1 days and CW steers slaughtered at 416.9 days of age.

A total of 4355 lamb and 4299 ewe records, obtained from Sabi sheep of Zimbabwe from 1984 to 1994, were analysed to describe growth, carcass and reproductive traits and to investigate non-genetic factors influencing their expression. Year of birth, sex, birth/rearing status of lamb, dam age, age of lamb and slaughter age were significant sources of variation for body weights, average daily gain, carcass and reproductive traits except for age ( P >0.05) of lamb at 18 months of age, and ewe age for hot and cold carcass weight (HCW and CCW). Significant ( P

Carcass measurements, commercial cuts and chemical composition of the meat of 32 Boer goat (BG) kids and 32 South African Mutton Merino (MM) lambs were investigated. Two pelleted diets (offered to 16 animals per species) with either a low (LE, 9·9 MJ/kg dry matter (DM)) or a high (HE, 121 MJ/kg DM) metabolizable energy level were offered, ad libitum, for either 28 or 56 days. Thereafter the animals were slaughtered and the carcasses dissected into South African commercial cuts. The 8-9-10-rib cut of each carcass was dissected and used for chemical analysis. MM had heavier carcasses (LE: 19·87w. 15·28 kg; HE: 2401 v 17·05 kg), and proportionally heavier ribs and buttocks than BG and therefore one can expect higher prices for sheep carcasses than for those of goats. BG had significantly more moisture and protein and lower fat and energy values than MM. DM, fat and energy values increased with an increase in slaughter age in both species. BG had significantly higher concentrations of 11 of the 18 measured essential amino acids in their 8-9-10-rib cuts than the MM. Goat carcasses had higher Ca, K, Mg, Na and P levels than sheep carcasses, regardless of the diet offered. BG had a lower carcass cholesterol content than lamb (66·77 v. 99·28 mg/100 g, respectively). Palmitic (C16: 0), stearic (C18: 0) and oleic (C18: 1n9) acids comprised the greatest proportions of the fatty acids in the 8-9-10-rib cut. On both diets there was a significantly higher saturated to unsaturated (SFA: UFA) fatty acid ratio in lamb than in goat meat (LE: 0·30 v 0·845; HE 1·407 v. 0·892). It can be concluded that chemically the meat from young feedlot goats is not inferior to that of lamb, and since it has a higher protein percentage and lower fat, cholesterol and SFA it can be considered as a healthy food commodity. Since diet had little or no significant influence on the carcass weight distribution or chemical composition of the goats, BGs can be finished on a LE-diet in the feedlot. This may decrease the food cost significantly.

O presente estudo foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de avaliar, em diferentes idades da fase inicial da vida produtiva, o desenvolvimento dos compartimentos estomacais de bezerros da raça Holandês desaleitados precocemente e recebendo concentrado e volumoso ad libitum a partir do início da segunda e terceira semanas de vida, respectivamente. Foram utilizados 18 animais, distribuídos aleatoriamente em três tratamentos (idade de abate). Foram abatidos seis bezerros ao nascimento (referência), seis aos 50 dias e seis aos 110 dias de vida, para a retirada dos estômagos e mensurações de peso de tecido e volume do órgão e dos compartimentos. Os dados foram submetidos a análises de correlação e regressão, por intermédio do programa estatístico SAS (1996). Foi verificado aumento da capacidade de todos os compartimentos estomacais com o avanço da idade dos bezerros, mas com taxas de crescimento diferenciadas entre os compartimentos. Foram observadas aceleração do crescimento ruminal e retração do crescimento abomasal, com o incremento da idade. Antes dos 50 dias, ocorreu inversão nas proporções dos compartimentos rúmen-retículo e abomaso, enquanto o omaso manteve ritmo constante de desenvolvimento. The present work was carried out to evaluate the growth of stomach compartments of early weaned Holstein calves. The animals were fed concentrates and hay from the second and third week of age respectively. Eighteen animals were allotted to a completely randomized design, with three treatments (slaughter age). Six calves were slaughtered at birth, at 50 days at 110 days of age; the stomachs were withdrawn and the weight and volume of each compartment measured. Data were submitted to correlation and regression analysis through the SAS statistical program, (1996). An increase of the capacity of all the stomachs compartments was verified with the progress of the age of the calves, but with growth rates differentiated among the compartments. The increase of the reticulo-rumen growth and the decrease of the abomasum growth with increase of age were observed. Up to 50 days of age the proportion of the reticulo-rumen and abomasum stomach compartments was changed, but the omasum maintained a constant rhythm of development.

Effect of slaughter age (24, 28 and 38 months of age) on beef color stability during display of m. serratus ventralis, m. psoas major, m. semitendinosus and m. longissimus thoracis from Japanese Black steers was studied. Steak samples from muscles were over-wrapped with PVC film and displayed under fluorescent lights at 4°C for 12 days. Percentages of metmyoglobin of steak samples were determined at days 0, 3, 6, 9 and 12. The percentage of metmyoglobin of m. psoas major at day 3 of display in the 24 months group was lower (p

Grupos de caprinos mestiços castrados e inteiros foram abatidos com idades de 175, 220, 265 e 310 dias. Os efeitos da castração e idade de abate nas qualidades físico-químicas, sensoriais e aromáticos da carne caprina foi pesquisado. O efeito castração foi observado apenas para o conteúdo de cálcio, no entanto a idade de abate apresentou um efeito significativo nos teores de umidade, proteína, cálcio, ferro e pH. Os fatores idade de abate e castração não apresentaram efeito significativo nos percentuais de fosfolipídeos porém, a idade de abate afetou os percentuais de colesterol. Caprinos castrados apresentaram maior percentual de ácidos graxos insaturados e, conseqüentemente, maior relação PUFA/SFA. Os ácidos graxos foram afetados significativamente pela castração. Não foram observadas variações nos percentuais dos ácidos graxos saturados e insaturados da carne caprina de animais abatidos com diferentes idades. O fator idade de abate apresentou maior efeito nos atributos sensoriais analisados do que o fator castração. Nos extratos da carne caprina foram identificados um total de cento e oito voláteis, sendo estes: 41 hidrocarbonetos alifáticos, 12 hidrocarbonetos alicíclicos, 19 aldeídos, 9 compostos benzênicos, 9 álcoois, 7 cetonas, 4 compostos sulfurados, 2 terpenoídes, 2 ésteres e 3 outros compostos. Os extratos da carne de caprinos castrados continham maior número de compostos voláteis do que os extratos de animais inteiros. O fator idade de abate foi o parâmetro que mais afetou as características físico-químicas e sensoriais da carne caprina. O fator castração afetou diretamente a produção de voláteis. Groups of crossbred castrated and intact goats were slaughtered at 175, 220, 265 and 310 days of age. The effect of castration and slaughter age on physical-chemical, sensorial and aromatic properties was researched. Calcium content was influenced by castration; however, slaughter age had a significant effect on moisture, protein, iron, calcium and pH. Castration and slaughter age had no significant effect on phospholipids contents, but slaughter age affected the percentage of total cholesterol. Fatty acids were significantly affected by castration. Castrated goat meat contained highest unsaturated fatty acids percentage and, consequently, highest ration PUFA/SFA. There were no differences in levels of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids among the animals slaughtered at different ages. Slaughter age had a higher effect on organoleptic qualities of goat meat compared to castration. A total of 108 volatiles were presented in the extract of goat meat, they were identified as: 41 aliphatic hydrocarbons, 12 alicyclic hydrocarbons, 19 aldehydes, 9 benzenoids, 9 alcohols, 7 ketones, 4 sulphur compounds, 2 terpenoids, 2 esters and 3 other compounds. Highest numbers of volatile compounds were identified from castrated goats than from entires. Slaughter age affected more intensively the physic-chemical and sensorial characteristics of goat meat. Castration affected directly the volatile formation.

Intestinal microbial functions reflect cross-talk between a host and its flora, and external factors may influence these functions. The aim of this investigation was to follow the development of six biochemical microbial-related functions of piglets, raised outdoors (OPs) or indoors (IPs), from birth to slaughter age. The following parameters (microflora-associated characteristic; MAC) were consecutively measured at five different ages: production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), conversion of cholesterol to coprostanol and of bilirubin to urobilinogens, inactivation of trypsin, degradation of beta-aspartylglycine and of mucin. Additionally, four parameters (production of SCFA. conversion of cholesterol to coprostanol, inactivation of trypsin, degradation of beta-aspartylglycine) were investigated in faecal samples from germ-free minipigs. The differences in MAC patterns between OPs and IPs were most pronounced at 20 days of age. Differences were found in the total amount of SCFAs, proportions of the acetic, propionic and butyric acids, conversion of bilirubin to urobilinogens, degradation of faecal tryptic activity and degradation of mucin. The values found in the minipigs were within the range of a germ-free animal characteristic (GAC) pattern. Our results show that environmental factors influence the development of some intestinal microbial functions in pigs.

O experimento objetivou estimar as exigências de proteína bruta (PB) e energia metabolizável (EM) para máximo desempenho de machos de codornas japonesas criadas para a produção de carne e determinação da idade de abate que resultasse em peso máximo das aves. Quatrocentos e cinqüenta codornas foram utilizadas em delineamento experimental de blocos ao acaso, com cinco repetições de seis codornas por unidade experimental. Os tratamentos, de dietas formuladas a partir da combinação de cinco níveis de PB (18, 20, 22, 24 e 26%) e três níveis de EM (2800, 3000 e 3200kcal/kg de ração), foram alocados nas parcelas e os quatro períodos experimentais nas sub-parcelas. As variáveis estudadas durante os quatro períodos (5 a 16; 16 a 27; 27 a 38 e 38 a 49 dias de idade) foram consumo de ração (CR), ganho de peso (GP), conversão alimentar (CA) e peso vivo (PV). No período total (5 a 49 dias de idade) foram estudados consumo de ração acumulado (CRA), ganho de peso acumulado (GPA) e conversão alimentar acumulada (CAA). As exigências estimadas de PB e EM durante o primeiro (5 a 16) e terceiro (27 a 38) períodos foram 26 e 2800 e 18% e 3200kcal/kg de ração, respectivamente. A exigência de PB no segundo período (16 a 27 dias de idade) foi de 26%, não sendo possível estimar a exigência energética. No quarto (38 a 49 dias de idade) período experimental a exigência estimada de EM foi de 3200kcal/kg de ração, não sendo possível estimar a exigência protéica. No período total as exigências protéica e energética, estimadas para máximos ganhos de peso acumulados, foram de 26% e 3200kcal/kg de ração, respectivamente. As idades estimadas que resultaram em PV máximo dependeram do nível de PB e de EM da dieta, variando de 57 a 85 e 60 a 74 dias, respectivamente. The experiment aimed to estimate the crude protein (CP) and metabolizable energy (ME) requirements for maximum performance of male Japanese quails reared for meat production purpose and to further estimate the slaughter age for maximum weight of quails. Four hundred and fifty quails were used in a completely randomized design with five replicates of six quails per experimental unit. The treatments, consisting of the combination of five levels of CP (18, 20, 22, 24 and 26%) and three level of ME (2800, 3000 and 3200kcal/kg of diet), were allotted to the plots, while the four periods, to the split-plot. The studied traits during four periods (5 to 16; 16 to 27; 27 to 38 and 38 to 49 days of age) were feed intake (FI), weight gain (WG), feed:gain ratio (FG) and body weight (BW). During the whole period (5 to 49 days of age) the studied traits were total feed intake (TFI), total weight gain (TWG) and total feed:gain ratio (TFG). The estimates of CP and ME requirements, during the first (5 to 16) and third (27 to 38 days of age) periods were: 26 and 2800 and 18% and 3200kcal/kg of diet. The CP requirement in the second period (16 to 27 days of age) was 26%, however, it was not possible to estimate the ME requirement. In the fourth (38 to 49 days of age) experimental period, the estimated ME requirement was 3200kcal/kg of diet, however, it was not possible to estimate the CP requirement. For the whole period, the crude protein and metabolizable energy requirements, estimated for maximum total weight gain were 26% and 3200kcal/kg of diet, respectively. The estimated ages for maximum BW depended on the CP and ME level of diet, and varied from 57 to 85 and 60 to 74 days, respectively.

Objetivando-se estimar as exigências de proteína bruta (PB) e energia metabolizável (EM) para máximo desempenho de codornas Japonesas de ambos os sexos, para a produção de carne, além de determinar a idade ótima de abate, 450 codornas de cada sexo, num total de 900 codornas, foram utilizadas em um delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, com cinco repetições de seis codornas por unidade experimental. Os tratamentos foram constituídos do sexo das codornas e das dietas experimentais, resultantes das combinações de cinco níveis de PB (18, 20, 22, 24 e 26%) e três níveis de EM (2800, 3000 e 3200 kcal/kg de ração), e distribuídos nas parcelas e nos quatro períodos experimentais, como subparcelas. As exigências estimadas de PB e EM durante o primeiro (5 a 16), terceiro (27 a 38) e quarto (38 a 49 dias de idade) períodos foram: 26 e 2800, 18 e 3200 e 19,62% e 3200 kcal/kg ração para fêmeas e 26 e 2800, 18 e 3200 e 18% e 3200 kcal/kg ração para machos, respectivamente. A exigência de PB para fêmeas e machos no segundo período (16 a 27 dias de idade) foi de 26%, entretanto, não foi possível estimar a exigência de EM para ambos os sexos, em relação ao mesmo período. No período total, a exigência protéica estimada para ganho de peso máximo de fêmeas e machos foi de 24,73%. As idades estimadas que resultaram em peso máximo dependeram do nível de PB da dieta, variando de 91 a 189 para fêmeas e de 57 a 83 dias para machos. Four hundred and fifty quails of each sex, in a total of nine hundred quails, were assigned to a completely randomized design with five replicates of six quails per experimental unit, to estimate the crude protein (CP) and metabolizable energy (ME) requirements for maximum performance of females and males Japanese quails reared for meat production purpose and to determine the best slaughter age. The treatments were consisted of the quails sex and the experimental diets, resultant from the combination of five levels of CP (18, 20, 22, 24 and 26%) and three level of ME (2800, 3000 and 3200 kcal/kg of diet), and allotted to the plots and to the four experimental periods, as splitplots. The estimates of CP and ME requirements during the first (5 to 16), third (27 to 38) and fourth (38 to 49 days of age) periods were: 26 and 2800; 18 and 3200 and 19,62% and 3200 kcal/kg of diet for females and 26 and 2800; 18 and 3200 and 18% and 3200 kcal/kg of diet for males, respectively. The CP requirement for females and males in the second (16 to 27 days of age) period was 26%, however it was not possible to estimate the ME requirement for both sexes, in relation to the same period. For the whole period, the estimated crude protein requirement for maximum weight gain of females and males was 24.73%. The estimated ages for maximum body weight depended on the crude protein level of diet and varied from 91 to 189 days of age for females and from 57 to 83 days for males.

Objetivando-se estimar as exigências de proteína bruta (PB) e energia metabolizável (EM) para máximo desempenho de codornas Japonesas de ambos os sexos, para a produção de carne, além de determinar a idade ótima de abate, 450 codornas de cada sexo, num total de 900 codornas, foram utilizadas em um delineamento experimental de blocos casualizados, com cinco repetições de seis codornas por unidade experimental. Os tratamentos foram constituídos do sexo das codornas e das dietas experimentais, resultantes das combinações de cinco níveis de PB (18, 20, 22, 24 e 26%) e três níveis de EM (2800, 3000 e 3200 kcal/kg de ração), e distribuídos nas parcelas e nos quatro períodos experimentais, como subparcelas. As exigências estimadas de PB e EM durante o primeiro (5 a 16), terceiro (27 a 38) e quarto (38 a 49 dias de idade) períodos foram: 26 e 2800, 18 e 3200 e 19,62% e 3200 kcal/kg ração para fêmeas e 26 e 2800, 18 e 3200 e 18% e 3200 kcal/kg ração para machos, respectivamente. A exigência de PB para fêmeas e machos no segundo período (16 a 27 dias de idade) foi de 26%, entretanto, não foi possível estimar a exigência de EM para ambos os sexos, em relação ao mesmo período. No período total, a exigência protéica estimada para ganho de peso máximo de fêmeas e machos foi de 24,73%. As idades estimadas que resultaram em peso máximo dependeram do nível de PB da dieta, variando de 91 a 189 para fêmeas e de 57 a 83 dias para machos.Four hundred and fifty quails of each sex, in a total of nine hundred quails, were assigned to a completely randomized design with five replicates of six quails per experimental unit, to estimate the crude protein (CP) and metabolizable energy (ME) requirements for maximum performance of females and males Japanese quails reared for meat production purpose and to determine the best slaughter age. The treatments were consisted of the quails sex and the experimental diets, resultant from the combination of five levels of CP (18, 20, 22, 24 and 26%) and three level of ME (2800, 3000 and 3200 kcal/kg of diet), and allotted to the plots and to the four experimental periods, as splitplots. The estimates of CP and ME requirements during the first (5 to 16), third (27 to 38) and fourth (38 to 49 days of age) periods were: 26 and 2800; 18 and 3200 and 19,62% and 3200 kcal/kg of diet for females and 26 and 2800; 18 and 3200 and 18% and 3200 kcal/kg of diet for males, respectively. The CP requirement for females and males in the second (16 to 27 days of age) period was 26%, however it was not possible to estimate the ME requirement for both sexes, in relation to the same period. For the whole period, the estimated crude protein requirement for maximum weight gain of females and males was 24.73%. The estimated ages for maximum body weight depended on the crude protein level of diet and varied from 91 to 189 days of age for females and from 57 to 83 days for males.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of different housing systems, slaughter age, and sex on slaughter and carcass traits of native Turkish ducks. A total of 133 ducklings were used. One-day-old ducklings were divided into 2 housing groups, a cage system and a deep litter floor system, under uniform conditions. Housing system significantly affected hot carcass, cold carcass, breast, wing, neck, and back percentages (P < 0.05, P < 0.01, and P < 0.001). The results of the current study showed the influence of housing system, sex, and slaughter age on slaughter and carcass traits. The slaughter and carcass traits and feed conversion efficiency were higher in the deep litter floor system than in the cage system for native Turkish ducks. The slaughter and carcass traits of male ducks were higher than those of female ducks. The ideal slaughter weight for native Turkish ducks was reached at 8 weeks, whereas the results for hot carcass weight, cold carcass weight, hot carcass percentage, and cold carcass percentage were better at 10 weeks of age. Therefore, it seems most appropriate to slaughter native Turkish ducks at 10 weeks of age.

Summary The length of broiler production cycle is also an important factor when profitability is measured. This paper is to determine the effects of different market ages and down-time period, overall broiler production cycle length on performance and economic parameters based on Hungarian production and financial circumstances. A deterministic model was constructed to manage the function-like correlations of age-related daily weight gain, daily feed intake and daily mortality data. The results show that broiler production cycle length has a significant effect on production and economic performance. Cycle length is determined by the length of down-time and grow-out periods. If down-time period is reduced by one day, an average net income of EUR 0.55 per m 2 is realizable. However, the production period is not directly proportional either with emerging costs or obtainable revenues. Profit maximization is attainable if the production period is 41-42 days.

WOS: 000343727600001 Foot pad dermatitis (FPD) represents a widespread problem and constitutes a welfare issue in broiler production. This study examined the effects of genotype, (fast-, medium- and slow-growing broilers), production system (indoor and outdoor access) and sex on the incidence of FPD. A total of 2,240 1-day-old mixed male and female chicks were reared to 12 weeks of age in an 8x2 factorial design. For each of 8 genotypes, chicks were randomly allocated to 1 of 2 production systems with 2 replicates, each comprised of 70 birds per pen. A four-stage feeding program was implemented consisting of broiler starter, layer chick starter, layer chicken grower and layer chicken developer feed, with all feed and water were offered ad libitum. A continuous lighting regimen (23 hours/day) was used for the first 2 weeks, and a daily lighting regimen (14 hours/day) was used for the remainder of the study. At 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 weeks of age, 6 males and 6 females per genotype were slaughtered, and FPD scores were calculated for left feet. Mean FPD scores were found to vary significantly by genotype (0.44 and 2.35; P < 0.05), with higher FPD scores found in fast-growing chickens. A significant correlation was also found between live weight and FPD scores (0.480; P < 0.05). Additionally, FPD scores varied between genotypes with similar live weights. FPD scores increased with age (0.54 and 1.69; P < 0.05), with the increases particularly critical for fast-growing chickens. Males had higher FPD scores than females (0.67 and 1.71; P < 0.05), and chickens with outdoor access had higher FPD scores than those without outside access (1.33 and 1.06; P < 0.05). Scientific and Technological Research Council of TurkeyTurkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Arastirma Kurumu (TUBITAK) [TOVAG 109O334] This study was supported by The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey. Project number TOVAG 109O334.

The length of broiler production cycle is also an important factor when profitability is measured. This paper is to determine the effects of different market ages and down-time period, overall broiler production cycle length on performance and economic parameters based on Hungarian production and financial circumstances. A deterministic model was constructed to manage the function-like correlations of age-related daily weight gain, daily feed intake and daily mortality data. The results show that broiler production cycle length has a significant effect on production and economic performance. Cycle length is determined by the length of down-time and grow-out periods. If down-time period is reduced by one day, an average net income of EUR 0.55 per m2 is realizable. However, the production period is not directly proportional either with emerging costs or obtainable revenues. Profit maximization is attainable if the production period is 41-42 days., Original scientific paper

This study was undertaken to characterize the fatty acid profile and sensory properties of longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle of Boer kids as affected by sex (17 male, 15 female) and slaughter weight (pre-weaned 20 kg, post-weaned 30 kg). Regarding sex differences, higher percentage amounts of lauric, myristic, pentadecanoic, linolenic and docosapentaenoic acids were found in LD muscle of male compared to female kids, whereas greater amounts of oleic acid were detected in LD muscle of female kids. Also, LD of male kids contained higher percentage amounts of saturated (SFA), polyunsaturated (PUFA) and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) while higher amounts of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) were detected in LD of female kids. Regarding slaughter weight, percentage amounts of lauric, myristic, margaric, pentadecanoic, linolenic, linoleic, arachidonic and docosapentaenoic acids significantly decreased with age (P≤0.001), while percentage amounts of heptadecenoic and oleic acids significantly increased (P≤0.001). LD muscle from lighter kids contained higher percentage amounts of SFA and PUFA, while heavier kids had higher percentage amounts of MUFA and n-3/n-6 fatty acid ratio. Except meat colour, sensory traits (marbling, off-odour, flavour, juiciness and tenderness) were neither significantly affected by sex nor slaughter age.

Title of the paper: Growth, slaughter Performance and meat quality of pasture fattening calves raised on cattle out of the mother cows with beef cattle The production of calves raised on cattle depends on mother cows and the direct market. The calves mainly live on mother's milk, some cattle fodder and a little grain from the farm. Out of this reason and because of the high quality of the product it has a high reputation for the consumer. Some other advantages are for the method, the producer and the national economy because animals are used very young and though they decrease the mass of beef. The animals are slaughtered when they are dismissed. That's why pre-ripped breeds and their cross-breeding like Angus and Limousin are very suitable. The result of experiments shows that already with a slaughter age of seven–eight months you can reach a weight of 230–300 kg. With a slaughter yield of 56–58 % means this a warm weight of 140–180 kg. The valuable parts were 60–64 %. The good quality of the beef can be increased by a two weeks ripening of the meat. The consumers have a tends meat rich in protein and with a low fat content.

The effect of castration and slaughter age on fat, cholesterol, phospholipids and fatty acid contents was determined for muscles of native Brazilian goat meat. Groups of castrated and intact “Mestico” goats were slaughtered at 175, 220, 265 and 310 days of age. Castration and slaughter age had a significant effect on total cholesterol and fatty acids contents. The cholesterol content increased with advance in slaughter age. Meat from castrated goat had a higher cholesterol content than that from intacts. Goat muscle contained mostly C18:1 (38–44%), C18:0 (23–25%), C16:0 (18–21%), and C18:2 (4–6%) fatty acids. There were no differences in levels of saturated, unsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids among the four groups slaughtered at different intervals. Castrated goat meat contained significantly greater unsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids than that of intacts. Total fat and total phospholipids percentages ranged from 3.0 to 3.4 g/100 g and 10.6 to 11.1 mg/100 g, respectively for intact and castrated goats.

The effects of castration on growth and body composition of Javan rusa (Cervus timorensis russa) stags were examined at three slaughter ages in three experiments. Castration had no effects on growth rates, or liveweights at periodic weighings, at any stage in Experiments I and 2, when the stags were slaughtered at 19 and 13 months of age, respectively. In Experiment 3, monthly liveweights of castrated and entire stags were not significantly different until the stags were 21 months old. From this age, when they had recovered from their first rut season and were in their second spring/early summer, the entires grew more rapidly than the castrates. There were seasonal changes in growth in both treatments, indicating that pasture conditions influenced performance. Liveweights of entires and castrates were similar in stags slaughtered at 13 and 19 months, but castrates were smaller than entires at 25 months. Castration reduced the size of the head and skin, but there was little important effect of castration on body components at any slaughter age. Castration can be recommended as a management tool for rusa stags, especially if the animals are to be slaughtered before they exceed 19 months of age.

The effects of castration on the primal joints and the cuts of the leg joint of Javan rusa (Cervus timorensis russa) stag carcases was investigated at three slaughter ages (13, 19 and 25 months). Castration reduced the weights of some primal joints in the 19- and 25-months age groups, but not at 13 months. At 19 months, the neck, and neck plus chuck, were heavier by 35 and 17% respectively in entires (P

O objetivo deste experimento foi avaliar as eficiências biológica e econômica de sistemas de alimentação, durante os períodos críticos, como alternativa de redução da idade de abate de bovinos recriados em pastagens de Brachiaria decumbens. Sessenta bezerros F1s Angus-Nelore desmamados foram distribuídos nos seguintes tratamentos: A) sem suplementação; B) suplementação somente no primeiro período seco; C) suplementação apenas na segunda seca; D) suplementação nos dois períodos secos; e E) suplementação no primeiro período seco e confinamento no segundo. Os suplementos utilizados foram rações comerciais fornecidas diariamente em quantidades equivalentes a 0,8 e 0,9% do peso vivo, nas primeira e segunda secas, respectivamente. O confinamento durou 100 dias e os novilhos receberam, ad libitum, uma ração contendo 40% de feno de Brachiaria decumbens e 60% de concentrado. O período experimental foi da desmama até o abate (460 kg). Durante o primeiro período seco, os animais suplementados apresentaram maiores ganhos de peso diário (GPD) que os não suplementados, 460 e 70 g, respectivamente. Durante o segundo período seco, os animais confinados apresentaram maiores GPD (1.285 g), seguidos dos suplementados em pasto (580 g), enquanto os não suplementados perderam peso (-180 g). Houve aumento na capacidade de suporte dos pastos, onde os animais receberam suplementação, em 24 e 30%, durante os primeiro e segundo períodos secos, respectivamente. Os animais que passaram por restrição alimentar no segundo período seco apresentaram ganho compensatório, quando cessou a restrição, mas esse não foi suficiente para que os animais atingissem pesos de abate à mesma idade dos suplementados. As idades de abate foram 30,1; 28,0; 26,6; 24,2; e 22,0 meses, respectivamente, para os tratamentos A, B, C, D e E. Também foi apresentada a avaliação econômica. The objective of this trial was to evaluate the biological and economical feeding systems feasibility during critical periods as an alternative to reduce the slaughter ages the animals raised in Brachiaria decumbens pastures. Sixty F1s Angus-Nellore weaned calves were randomly assigned in the following treatments: A) no supplementation; B) supplementation during the dry season after weaning; C) supplementation during the second dry season of the animal's life; D) supplementation during the both dry seasons; and E) supplementation during the first dry season and feedlot in the second one. The used supplement was a commercial ration, daily supplied at about 0.8% and 0.9% of liveweight, in the first and second dry periods, respectively. The feedlot treatment lasted 100 days, and the steers received ad libitum, a diet containing 40% of B. decumbens hay and 60% of concentrate. The experimental period was from weaning to slaughter (460 kg). During the first dry season, the supplemented calves showed higher daily gains (490 g) than non supplemented (70 g). In the second dry season, the confined steers presented the highest daily gains (1,285 g), followed by supplemented ones (580 g), while non supplemented steers lost weight (-180 g). There was an increase on the pasture stocking rate capacity where the animals were supplemented, in 20 and 30%, during the first and second dry periods, respectively. In the second dry season, the steers fed with restricted diet presented a compensatory gain when the feed restriction ceased, but it was not enough to allow them to reach the slaughter weight at the same age of the supplemented ones. The slaughter weight were: 30.1; 28.0; 26.6; 24.2 e 22.0 months for treats A, B, C, D and E, respectively. The economic analysis was also presented.

O objetivo deste experimento foi avaliar as eficiências biológica e econômica de sistemas de alimentação, durante os períodos críticos, como alternativa de redução da idade de abate de bovinos recriados em pastagens de Brachiaria decumbens. Sessenta bezerros F1s Angus-Nelore desmamados foram distribuídos nos seguintes tratamentos: A) sem suplementação; B) suplementação somente no primeiro período seco; C) suplementação apenas na segunda seca; D) suplementação nos dois períodos secos; e E) suplementação no primeiro período seco e confinamento no segundo. Os suplementos utilizados foram rações comerciais fornecidas diariamente em quantidades equivalentes a 0,8 e 0,9% do peso vivo, nas primeira e segunda secas, respectivamente. O confinamento durou 100 dias e os novilhos receberam, ad libitum, uma ração contendo 40% de feno de Brachiaria decumbens e 60% de concentrado. O período experimental foi da desmama até o abate (460 kg). Durante o primeiro período seco, os animais suplementados apresentaram maiores ganhos de peso diário (GPD) que os não suplementados, 460 e 70 g, respectivamente. Durante o segundo período seco, os animais confinados apresentaram maiores GPD (1.285 g), seguidos dos suplementados em pasto (580 g), enquanto os não suplementados perderam peso (-180 g). Houve aumento na capacidade de suporte dos pastos, onde os animais receberam suplementação, em 24 e 30%, durante os primeiro e segundo períodos secos, respectivamente. Os animais que passaram por restrição alimentar no segundo período seco apresentaram ganho compensatório, quando cessou a restrição, mas esse não foi suficiente para que os animais atingissem pesos de abate à mesma idade dos suplementados. As idades de abate foram 30,1; 28,0; 26,6; 24,2; e 22,0 meses, respectivamente, para os tratamentos A, B, C, D e E. Também foi apresentada a avaliação econômica.The objective of this trial was to evaluate the biological and economical feeding systems feasibility during critical periods as an alternative to reduce the slaughter ages the animals raised in Brachiaria decumbens pastures. Sixty F1s Angus-Nellore weaned calves were randomly assigned in the following treatments: A) no supplementation; B) supplementation during the dry season after weaning; C) supplementation during the second dry season of the animal's life; D) supplementation during the both dry seasons; and E) supplementation during the first dry season and feedlot in the second one. The used supplement was a commercial ration, daily supplied at about 0.8% and 0.9% of liveweight, in the first and second dry periods, respectively. The feedlot treatment lasted 100 days, and the steers received ad libitum, a diet containing 40% of B. decumbens hay and 60% of concentrate. The experimental period was from weaning to slaughter (460 kg). During the first dry season, the supplemented calves showed higher daily gains (490 g) than non supplemented (70 g). In the second dry season, the confined steers presented the highest daily gains (1,285 g), followed by supplemented ones (580 g), while non supplemented steers lost weight (-180 g). There was an increase on the pasture stocking rate capacity where the animals were supplemented, in 20 and 30%, during the first and second dry periods, respectively. In the second dry season, the steers fed with restricted diet presented a compensatory gain when the feed restriction ceased, but it was not enough to allow them to reach the slaughter weight at the same age of the supplemented ones. The slaughter weight were: 30.1; 28.0; 26.6; 24.2 e 22.0 months for treats A, B, C, D and E, respectively. The economic analysis was also presented.

This study executed the economic return of naturally and artificially hatched geese in intensive and free-range production systems at different fattening periods. The animal material was consisted of 216 goslings which were naturally and artificially hatched from the eggs collected from back-yard. Goslings and feed was the highest share of variable expenses. Highest net profit from live and carcass sales was obtained from geese which were artificially hatched and reared in intensive (YK) and free-range (YSG) systems until 14, 16 and 18 weeks of age. Live sale relative profit was found higher at 14 weeks in YK and YSG groups. Relative profit of carcass sales in YSG and YK groups at 14 and 16 weeks; and YK group at 18 weeks. As a conclusion, when we consider feed consumption, feed conversion ratio and probable mortality at older ages-related to metabolic problems; 14 weeks seemed as the optimal slaughter age and economic return for the naturally and artificially hatched geese which were reared in intensive and free-range systems.

A brown cattle is dual purpose cattle in Slovenia mainly used for milk production. This study included 90 crossbred young bulls of two genotypes, 70 Brown x Limousin (BRxLIM) and 20 Brown x Charolais (BRxCHA). The aim of this study was to determine some growth and carcass characteristics of crossbred young bulls. Data were analysed by GLM procedure considering sire breed and year nested within sire breed as fixed effects and slaughter age as linear regression. Sire breed statistically significantly affected slaughter weight, hot carcass weight, net daily gain, dressing percentage and index of conformation. All three included effects statistically significantly affected only slaughter weight, hot carcass weight and net daily gain.

In this trial male and female chickens belonging to a dual-purpose Italian breed, Ermellinata di Rovigo (ER), were reared under a free-range production system (June-October) from 47 days of life until slaughter age, at 138 (I age) and 168 (II age) days of age. At both ages, the final body weight, the dressing-out percentage and the ready-tocook carcass weight were higher (P

Cooked meat from castrated male and intact "mestico" goats slaughtered at 175, 220, 265 and 310 days of age, were analysed by panellists and GC-MS. Slaughter age had a (P

The proximate composition and mineral content of light lambs muscle (derived from Istrian and Dalmatian Pramenka breeds) were studied. The M. Longissimus dorsi (MLD) samples of 30 carcasses were analysed and the effects of breed and sex were studied. Although lambs of investigated breeds were similar for slaughter age (2.5 months), Dalmatian Pramenka had significantly higher carcass weights (CW; P

Intact (85) and castrated (86) male pigs were slaughtered at 96.3 kg and at an average slaughter age of 150.1 days producing 79.1 kg carcasses. Either a corn or wheat-based, nutritionally equivalent ration was fed ad libitum. Nine percent less feed was required to market entire (intact) males when compared with castrates. Entire males had at least 1.9% more lean content and perhaps as much as 10% more carcass value. Little evidence was found to suggest that entire males had reduced meat quality. Preslaughter handling was an important aspect, since detrimental effects from inadequate preslaughter handling techniques appeared to be greater than those associated with gender. Therefore, considering production aspects only, entire male pigs should be able to be successfully marketed in Canada. However, detection and control of “sex-taint” and consumer acceptance of fresh pork from entire male pigs must be addressed.

A study of age-related changes in carcass traits and meat quality characteristics of Longissimus dorsi (LD) and Biceps femoris (BF) of free-ranged Iberian pigs was carried out to check whether the slaughter age used in the traditional management system of Iberian pigs is adequate. There was a great increase in live and carcass weight during fattening, principally due to an increase in fat deposition, as could be deduced from the percentage of dissectible fat and the backfat thickness. However, intramuscular fat in LD and BF showed only slight changes during the fattening. Myoglobin content tended to increase throughout lifetime in both muscles, whereas water-holding capacity decreased in intermediate ages and showed the highest values in the oldest animals. Total collagen content did not vary during lifetime; on the other hand, insoluble collagen increased from 7 to 77% of total collagen. It can be concluded that the traditional management system of Iberian pigs can be improved by fattening the pigs at a younger age, without negative consequences on the meat quality.

Groups of castrated male and intact "mestiço" goats were slaughtered at 175, 220, 265 and 310 days of age. After slaughter the carcasses were chilled for 24 h at 2°C, and pH, Aw, Ca, Fe, P, moisture, ash, protein and fat were determined on the total lean. Slaughter age had a significant (p0.01) effect on moisture, protein, iron, calcium and pH. Calcium content was influenced by castration and the slaughter age×castration interaction was significant (p0.01) for iron content. Meat from castrated males contained less moisture and protein and more fat, ash, iron and calcium than did meat from intact males. The fat, protein and iron content increased with increasing slaughter age, while moisture decreased. Composite results indicate slaughtering "mestiço" goats at 310 days exert favourable effects on the parameters investigated. ©

Submitted by Guilherme Lemeszenski (guilherme@nead.unesp.br) on 2013-08-22T18:40:14Z No. of bitstreams: 1 S1516-635X2008000200009.pdf: 517671 bytes, checksum: b28174049718efd4ea611bf29908a55e (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2013-08-22T18:40:14Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 S1516-635X2008000200009.pdf: 517671 bytes, checksum: b28174049718efd4ea611bf29908a55e (MD5) Previous issue date: 2008-06-01 Made available in DSpace on 2013-09-30T17:55:44Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 S1516-635X2008000200009.pdf: 517671 bytes, checksum: b28174049718efd4ea611bf29908a55e (MD5) S1516-635X2008000200009.pdf.txt: 29900 bytes, checksum: aff2cb27da2f839ed3726020b126ce14 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2008-06-01 Submitted by Vitor Silverio Rodrigues (vitorsrodrigues@reitoria.unesp.br) on 2014-05-20T13:15:45Z No. of bitstreams: 2 S1516-635X2008000200009.pdf: 517671 bytes, checksum: b28174049718efd4ea611bf29908a55e (MD5) S1516-635X2008000200009.pdf.txt: 29900 bytes, checksum: aff2cb27da2f839ed3726020b126ce14 (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2014-05-20T13:15:45Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 2 S1516-635X2008000200009.pdf: 517671 bytes, checksum: b28174049718efd4ea611bf29908a55e (MD5) S1516-635X2008000200009.pdf.txt: 29900 bytes, checksum: aff2cb27da2f839ed3726020b126ce14 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2008-06-01 A study was carried out to elaborate response surface models using broiler performance data recovered from literature in order to predict performance and elaborate economic analyses. Nineteen studies published between 1995 and 2005 were retrieved using the systematic literature review method. Weight gain and feed conversion data were collected from eight studies that fulfilled the pre-established inclusion criteria, and a response surface model was adjusted using crude protein, environmental temperature, and age as independent variables. The models produced for weight gain (r² = 0.93) and feed conversion (r² = 0.85) were accurate, precise, and not biased. Protein levels, environmental temperature and age showed linear and quadratic effects on weight gain and feed conversion. There was no interaction between protein level and environmental temperature. Age and crude protein showed interaction for weight gain and feed conversion, whereas interaction between age and temperature was detected only for weight gain. It was possible to perform economic analyses to determine maximum profit as a function of the variables that were included in the model. It was concluded that the response surface models are effective to predict the performance of broiler chickens and allow the elaboration of economic analyses to optimize profit. Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais Instituto de Ciências Agrárias Setor Acadêmico de Zootecnia Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária (EMBRAPA) Suínos e Aves Universidade Estadual Paulista Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal Universidade Estadual Paulista Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias Departamento de Morfologia e Fisiologia Animal

Seker, I., Bayraktar, M., Kul, S. and Ozmen, O. 2007. Effect of slaughter age on fattening performance and carcass characteristics of Japanese quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica.) J. Appl. Anim. Res., 31: 193–195. To determine the most economic slaughter age for male Japanese quails a total of 220 quail chicks were fed a standard feed up to 49 days. Rate of live weight gain started decreasing after 28 days of age. Feed consumption showed similar trend after d35. However, the feed required for each gram of weight gain exhibited steep increase after d42. Dressing percentage was the highest when the birds were slaughtered on d35. Considering these results the slaughter of male Japanese quails is recommended at 42 days of age.

Crossbreeding effects on beef production characteristics, growth, carcass and meat quality traits were registered on a total of 162 purebred Norwegian (NRF) dual‐purpose and crossbred bulls obtained from mating (AI) NRF dams with NRF, Aberdeen Angus, Hereford and Charolais sires. The offspring were reared in commercial farms until slaughter. Data were analysed by mixed models and adjusted to either constant carcass weight (305 kg), slaughter age (19.5 mos.) or carcass fat level (6% fat) end points. Improvements in beef production traits obtained by crossbreeding were highly dependent on the choice of sire beef breed. NRF × Charolais crossbreds had the highest daily carcass gain and carcass quality (fleshiness grading) at all end points. Crossbreeding with Aberdeen Angus and Hereford gave no growth advantages, an intermediate increase in carcass fleshiness grading and an increase in weight constant carcass fat level compared to purebred NRF. The small, significant breed differences observed for colour, fla...

The success of the poultry industry has been fueled by the ability to economically produce acceptable products. This accomplishment has been achieved through high selection intensities, shorter generation intervals and reduced environmental influences. The result is reduced slaughter age and increased body weight at specific ages. Muscle yields and feed conversion have also improved. Unfortunately, genetic progress has resulted in a reduction of meat quality associated with muscle texture and flavor. The most recent poultry meat quality concern is associated with muscle characteristics similar to pale-soft-exudative (PSE) pork. Molecular approaches providing relief to the PSE pork have not been documented for poultry. The molecular tools necessary for marker-assisted selection in poultry are still in their infancy. Unfortunately, the time required for marker development, and the interface of this technology with the traditional selection programs will require 8 to 12 years. Thus, other remedies should be pursued.

There are currently no scientifically defined critical management points or critical control points to manage foodborne pathogens at the pre-harvest level. Research is ongoing: much of the pre-harvest research is funded by producer organisations. The beef industry has Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) programmes in place and these are dynamic. Groups of cattlemen have made a very strong commitment to reducing foodborne pathogens in beef. Fewer Escherichia coli O157:H7 organisms are shed by feedlot cattle near the end of the feeding period than by newly arrived cattle. Moreover, there is less shedding of the organisms in cattle of slaughter age than in younger cattle. The prevalence of E. coli O157:H7 in feedlot cattle is similar to that in range cattle. This suggests that concentrating cattle in feedlot dirt pens does not increase the risk of shedding E. coli organisms. Pen maintenance, considered a good management practice, appears to be an adequate means of keeping pathogen levels in pens low. It is not likely that pre-harvest food safety programmes will eliminate the threat of pathogens such as E. coli O157:H7 or Salmonella. The management of foodborne pathogens will become part of an integrated programme to enhance food safety which includes the producer, the packer, the distributors, retailers and the consumer. The feedlot industry initiated a residue avoidance programme several years ago. As a result, the risk of chemical residues in beef from feedlots in the United States of America is near zero. Hazard analysis and critical control point-type prevention programmes, using scientifically based critical management points, will help ensure that the risk remains negligible.