Search

Crossbreeding is a well-established practice in livestock production aimed at improving reproductive and productive traits. This study evaluated the effects of crossbreeding on rabbits, focusing on comparisons between purebred Flemish Giant (n = 10), New Zealand White (n = 23), and their crossbred offspring (n = 27). Various parameters, including litter size, body weight, growth rate, and mortality, were assessed. The results demonstrated that crossbred rabbits presented a 15% faster growth rate than purebred rabbits, along with the lowest mortality rate and highest total meat output. This phenomenon, attributed to hybrid vigour, effectively blends the large frame of the Flemish Giant with the good litter size of the New Zealand White. Furthermore, statistical analyses, including ANOVA and Tukey‒Kramer’s honestly significant test, confirmed the significant effects of breed class on productivity, body weight, and carcass yield. Growth curves estimated using the Gompertz model highlighted the superior performance of crossbred rabbits under semiarid conditions. Notably, crossbreeding resulted in offspring with the highest dressing percentage and overall improved performance, offering potential advantages for rabbit producers worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seeds of lesser-known tropical legume trees are currently being promoted as a cost-effective method of increasing broiler productivity, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Several feeding trials have evaluated the effects of baobab seed meal (BSM) on broiler chicken productivity. However, due to differences in experimental conditions among feeding trials, drawing broad conclusions using this large volume of data appears difficult. Thus, the meta-analytic effect of BSM on growth performance [i.e., feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and body weight gain (BWG)] and carcass characteristics of broilers were investigated using 14 peer-reviewed published articles. These articles were retrieved via a systematic search conducted on Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Elicit.com, and PubMed databases. The effect size was calculated via a random effect model, and results were expressed as standardised mean differences (SMD) at 95% confidence intervals. The pooled results showed that broilers fed BSM had significantly lower BWG (SMD = −0.77; −0.19, −0.30; p < 0.001), dressed carcass weight (SMD = −0.84; −1.44, −0.23; p = 0.007), and higher FCR (SMD = 0.55; 0.19, 0.91; p < 0.001) than those fed control diets. However, feed intake, dressing percentage, and weights of breast, thigh, and drumstick were not significantly affected. Subgroup analyses showed that the Marshall strain-fed BSM-based diets had significantly heavier BWG (p < 0.001) than the Hubbard, Ross, and Anak strains. Similarly, results revealed that broilers fed soaked and roasted BSM had significantly better FCR and BWG than broilers fed sundried and fermented BSM. Broilers fed BSM-based diets from days 29–56 (SMD = 0.17; −0.51, 0.84; p = 0.622) and days 1−56 (SMD = −0.89; −1.41, −0.36; p < 0.001) had significantly improved FCR compared to those offered BSM-based diets from days 1–21 (SMD = 2.58; 1.65, 3.51; p < 0.001), days 1–28 (SMD = 0.85; 0.35, 1.34; p < 0.001), and days 22–42 (SMD = 1.82; 1.02, 2.62; p < 0.001). Similarly, broilers fed BSM-based diets from days 29–56 (SMD = 0.21; −0.38, 0.79; p = 0.484) and days 1−56 (SMD = 0.92; 0.16, 1.69; p = 0.018) had significantly higher BWG than those offered BSM-based diets from days 1–21 (SMD = −3.39; −4.41, −2.37; p < 0.001), days 1–28 (SMD = −1.32; −1.91, −0.72; p < 0.001), and days 22–42 (SMD = −2.24; −2.75, 1.73; p < 0.001). Meta-regression revealed a low to moderate effect of processing methods, broiler strains, inclusion level, and feeding duration as covariates, explaining most of the sources of heterogeneity. In conclusion, broilers fed 1–10% of soaked, and roasted BSM from days 1 to 56 had improved growth performance parameters when compared to those on the control.

Bacground: Morphologic measurements such as body lenght, wither height, heart girth, chest width, body leght, cannon‐bone circumference is used to predict carcass weight. For this purpose, estimating carcass weight with measurements of key bones such as ankle bones, which play a significant role in the balance distribution of body weight, seems possible. Objectives: The aim of this study is to create new regression models for effective carcass weight estimation by using the morphometric data of the talus and calcaneus bones of hair goats. Methods: Study materials consisted of talus and calcaneus bones obtained from abattoir products of hair goat kids (12–18 months old, 20 female and 20 male) and adult hair goats (36–48 months old, 20 female and 20 male). Morphometric measurements of the talus and calcaneus of each animal were taken by a digital caliper. Using the morphometric measurements, an index and a factor were calculated for each bone. Regression analysis and correlations were examined in IBM SPSS 21 programme. Results: As a result, statistical analysis of GLc, GLt, Bd, Calfactor and Talfactor were statistically significant on predicting carcass weight. Conclusion: Specific anatomical structures, such as certain bone measurements, such as talus and calnaneus could serve as indicators of growth performance and also carcass weight performance. In addition new anatomical factors and indices may be produced and new regression methods may be applied with these new parameters to predict carcass weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of increasing hot carcass weight (HCW) on pork ham and belly processing characteristics. Pigs (n = 85) were slaughtered and divided into 3 HCW categories: Average (99 to 109 kg), Heavy (116 to 126 kg), and Very Heavy (134 to 144 kg). Fresh hams were fabricated and further processed as 3-piece (inside, outside, and knuckle) boneless cured hams. Fresh belly quality measurements were taken before bacon processing. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure in SAS including the main effect of weight class, with sex and sire line as random blocking effects. Means were considered significant at P ≤ 0.05. There were no differences (P = 0.08) in ham processing characteristics including pump uptake, retention, and cook yield. However, cured hams from heavier car- casses were less red and less yellow (P < 0.01). Heavier carcasses produced longer, thicker, and wider bellies (P < 0.01), but bellies did not differ in firmness (P = 0.16). Despite reduced pump uptake (P < 0.01), bellies from heavier carcasses had greater cooked yield than those from lighter carcasses (P < 0.01). Total area of sliced bacon increased with increasing carcass weight. Bacon slice lean area percentage decreased (P < 0.01) in bacon from Very Heavy carcasses compared to lighter carcasses. Iodine value was decreased (P = 0.04) approximately 2.5 units from 68.6 in fresh bellies from Average carcasses to 66.2 in bellies from Very Heavy carcasses. Overall, processing characteristics of hams and bellies were not impaired at heavier carcass weights, though the consumer acceptability of larger slices of bacon from heavier carcasses should be determined.

Abstract Bacground Morphologic measurements such as body lenght, wither height, heart girth, chest width, body leght, cannon‐bone circumference is used to predict carcass weight. For this purpose, estimating carcass weight with measurements of key bones such as ankle bones, which play a significant role in the balance distribution of body weight, seems possible. Objectives The aim of this study is to create new regression models for effective carcass weight estimation by using the morphometric data of the talus and calcaneus bones of hair goats. Methods Study materials consisted of talus and calcaneus bones obtained from abattoir products of hair goat kids (12–18 months old, 20 female and 20 male) and adult hair goats (36–48 months old, 20 female and 20 male). Morphometric measurements of the talus and calcaneus of each animal were taken by a digital caliper. Using the morphometric measurements, an index and a factor were calculated for each bone. Regression analysis and correlations were examined in IBM SPSS 21 programme. Results As a result, statistical analysis of GLc, GLt, Bd, Calfactor and Talfactor were statistically significant on predicting carcass weight. Conclusion Specific anatomical structures, such as certain bone measurements, such as talus and calnaneus could serve as indicators of growth performance and also carcass weight performance. In addition new anatomical factors and indices may be produced and new regression methods may be applied with these new parameters to predict carcass weight.

The dynamics of cattle body chemical composition during growth and fattening periods determine animal performance and beef carcass quality. The aim of this study was to estimate the empty body (EB) and carcass chemical composition of growing beef-on-dairy crossbred bulls (Brown Swiss breed as dam with Angus, Limousin or Simmental as sire) using three-dimensional (3D) imaging. The 3D images of the cattle’s external body shape were recorded in vivo on 48 bulls along growth trajectory (75–520 kg BW and 34–306 kg hot carcass weight [HCW]; set 1) and on 70 bulls at target market slaughter weight, including 18 animals from set 1 (average 517 ± 10 kg BW and 289 ± 10 kg HCW; set 2). The linear, circumference, curve, surface and volume measurements on the 3D body shape were determined. Those predictive variables were used in partial least square regressions, together with the effect of the sire breed whenever significant (P

This study aimed to determine the effect of lactic acid bacteria probiotics on the performance of Kampung Unggul Balitbangtan (KUB) chicken. A total of 48 KUB chickens aged 2 weeks were randomized into 4 treatments and each treatment consisted of 12 chickens. This study was conducted for 8 weeks. This study used 4 different treatments including (P0) not using probiotics, (P1) using probiotics of 1 mL/L drinking water, (P2) using probiotics of 2 mL/L drinking water, and (P3) using probiotics of 3 mL/L drinking water. The data were analyzed using ANOVA continued with Duncan’s Multiple distance test. As a result, reported that the data had a significant difference in the increase in feed efficiency and carcass weight. In conclusion, the administration of probiotics of 3 mL/L of drinking water can increase feed efficiency and carcass weight in KUB chickens.

Deer hunting has traditionally had great relevance due to the diversity of resources obtained from it, such as meat. Our aim has been to analyse the total post-mortem weight, dressed carcass weight and carcass yield, as well as their variations as a function of years, sex, age and hunting season (autumn vs. winter). Also, predictive equations for carcass weight from total weight were performed. A total of 947 red deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus) of both sexes, hunted from 1989 to 1993 in the Quintos de Mora National Reserve, Spain, were analysed. Seasonal and interannual differences were detected in all weight measures and carcass yield, conditioned by sex, age and climatic factors such as temperature. In general, to obtain a higher meat yield deer extractions should be carried out in autumn. In addition, carcass weight variation (measured on cold carcasses dressed without head and feet, keeping skin, lateral diaphragm portions, fat deposits and legs) can be considered a good indicator of body condition that integrates seasonal nutritional gains and/or losses and long-term nutritional legacies. This index provides information on the animal's natural history and ecological environment conditions, making its standardized record an essential tool for monitoring wild game populations.

Sumba Ongole (Bos indicus) is a native beef cattle that adapts well in Sumba Island of Indonesia. This study was carried out to perform a genome-wide association study for body weight (BW) and carcass weight (CW) in Sumba Ongole (SO) bulls. A total of forty-eight (n=48) SO bulls were used in this study. The data were collected from the slaughterhouse at Bogor City, West Java, Indonesia, and were analyzed using a genomic software of TASSEL 5.0 to obtain the best genetic marker. The result showed that the threshold Manhattan plot (-Log10P3) was used to select SNP markers for BW and CW in SO bulls. The two (2) SNP markers at BTA1, i.e., ARS-BFGL-NGS-3162 (CEP63 gene) and ARS-BFGL-NGS-78232 were significantly associated with BW and CW, respectively. Nonetheless, the genetic diversity in both SNP markers was low, with a PIC value of less than 0.30. In conclusion, the heterozygous TG bulls in CEP63 gene have higher CW than homozygous TT bulls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deer hunting has traditionally had great relevance due to the diversity of resources obtained from it, such as meat. Our aim has been to analyse the total post-mortem weight, dressed carcass weight and carcass yield, as well as their variations as a function of years, sex, age and hunting season (autumn vs. winter). Also, predictive equations for carcass weight from total weight were performed. A total of 947 red deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus) of both sexes, hunted from 1989 to 1993 in the Quintos de Mora National Reserve, Spain, were analysed. Seasonal and interannual differences were detected in all weight measures and carcass yield, conditioned by sex, age and climatic factors such as temperature. In general, to obtain a higher meat yield deer extractions should be carried out in autumn. In addition, carcass weight variation (measured on cold carcasses dressed without head and feet, keeping skin, lateral diaphragm portions, fat deposits and legs) can be considered a good indicator of body condition that integrates seasonal nutritional gains and/or losses and long-term nutritional legacies. This index provides information on the animal´s natural history and ecological environment conditions, making its standardized record an essential tool for monitoring wild game populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waterfowl is an important animal-protein source, which has the potential to get a bigger share in the animal production sector. However, waterfowl farming practices and welfare standards are not well established yet. Stocking rate is one of the farming standards that can enhance the productivity, behavior, and well-being of birds; however, rare studies are available in this area. Thus, this article (1) gives an overview of the recent global waterfowls’ meat and egg production and their population distribution, (2) reviews the effects of stocking rate on social, feeding, and sexual behaviors, (3) shows the effects of stocking rate on growth performance, carcass weight, and meat quality of ducks and geese, and (4) declares the relationship between the stocking rate and egg production. Conclusively, an optimal stocking rate standard can improve behaviors, productivity (meat-egg), and meat quality. Moreover, using weight (kg)/m2 will help in affording the required space allowance for different ducks and geese under various housing systems. The fish-waterfowl production system could be a promising and sustainable solution for increasing waterfowl production, maintaining the welfare of birds, saving energy, and reducing the water footprint of waterfowl meat. Based on prior research findings, we recommended adopting the stocking rate (SR) standard for specific duck and goose breeds to achieve an optimal production-welfare balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the effect of lactic acid bacteria probiotics on the performance of Kampung Unggul Balitbangtan (KUB) chicken. A total of 48 KUB chickens aged 2 weeks were randomized into 4 treatments and each treatment consisted of 12 chickens. This study was conducted for 8 weeks. This study used 4 different treatments including (P0) not using probiotics, (P1) using probiotics of 1 mL/L drinking water, (P2) using probiotics of 2 mL/L drinking water, and (P3) using probiotics of 3 mL/L drinking water. The data were analyzed using ANOVA continued with Duncan’s Multiple distance test. As a result, reported that the data had a significant difference in the increase in feed efficiency and carcass weight. In conclusion, the administration of probiotics of 3 mL/L of drinking water can increase feed efficiency and carcass weight in KUB chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The production of biofuels has caused an increase in the prices of agricultural commodities. Thus, the ecological footprint, social inclusion and profitability of production systems have encouraged the use of agro-industrial products as an alternative in ruminant feeds. Objective: To evaluate carcass yields, non-carcass components, and the economic viability of including licuri oil in diet of Santa Ines ewes. Methods: A total of 32 Santa Ines ewes (multiparous, non-lactating, 2-4 years old, and 36.7±0.87 kg of body weight--BW) were allotted to a randomized block design with four treatments (diets containing 0, 2, 4 or 5% licuri oil) with eight replicates per treatment, and confined for 77 days. Results: The incremental inclusion of licuri oil promoted a quadratic response on slaughter BW, carcass and true yields, chest widths, heart fat, pancreas, omental fat, and ribeye area (p<0.05). Carcass, heart and loin weight, shank yield, fat thickness and loin fat were reduced (p<0.05); while cooling losses, left half-carcass weight, saw blade yield, and proportion of meat in the loin increased (p<0.05) with increasing dietary levels of licuri oil. The control diet resulted in the best gross revenue (USD$609.39); however, there was a loss (USD$50.96) regarding economic performance indicators. Conclusion: The use of up to 2% licuri oil in the diet increased carcass yield of discard ewes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Rabbit meat production presents high labor costs per rabbit, making it less competitive than other meats. Concentrate feed, the prime feeding option in rabbit meat production represents an important share of total production cost. Therefore, to reduce rabbit meat production costs and make it more competitive, it is essential to incorporate alternative feed sources with reduced costs. The study aimed to investigate the effect of supplementation with oat hay and whole carrot from self-production, presented singly or in combination on rabbit production efficiency. The results revealed that combined supplementation with oat hay and whole carrot resulted better than supplementation presented independently and reduced concentrate intake (39.2% less or minus 1107 g/animal) without affecting carcass meat weight. At the same time, supplementation with oat hay represented the lowest feeding cost of all in the analysis (less than 14% of the cost associated with feeding exclusively on concentrate feeding). Therefore, the supplementation of rabbit's diet either with oat hay singly or in combination with whole carrot, from self-production, is an effective option to reduce rabbit's production cost. Is it possible to reduce feeding costs in rabbit meat production without compromising rabbit health and productive yield? The study tested four feeding strategies: Control group (CC) fed exclusively with concentrate feed; group CT supplemented with whole carrot; group OH supplemented with oat hay; and Group CO supplemented with oat hay and whole carrot. Each feeding strategy was tested in 20 rabbits, randomly allocated in five cages with four rabbits each. The average daily weight gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and the amount of concentrated feed consumed daily were estimated in all experimental groups. Group CC displayed the best ADG (37.1 g/rabbit/day), carrot had no significant influence on ADG (34.2 g/rabbit/day), but oat hay had a negative impact (p < 0.05), either used alone or in combination with carrot (33.0 and 32.6 g/rabbit/day, respectively). Supplementation with carrot, oat hay, or both increased the FCR (p < 0.001). Nevertheless, there were no significant differences in final live weight or carcass weight between the rabbits in the different experimental groups. In conclusion, supplementation with oat hay, carrot, or both can be a valid approach to reducing production costs by decreasing concentrate feed without affecting rabbit's health and meat yield. The combined supplementation with oat hay and carrot proved to be the best option in reducing the amount of concentrate feed ingested by rabbits (less than 1107 g/animal), but at current market values, supplementation exclusively with oat hay was the less expensive feeding strategy (less 14% than fed exclusively with concentrate feeding). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our objective was to evaluate the productive parameters of ewes and their lambs in relation to ewe age and to develop models for predicting lamb weight at birth and weaning in a tropical warm-climate pasture. Individual data were collected from 273 ewes and 273 lambs, between 2013 and 2021. During this period all animals were kept on pastures of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu All lambs in the experiments were supplemented in creep-feeding. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed using the PROC SUMMARY procedure in SAS (SAS University Edition, SAS Institute Inc. Cary, CA, USA). Pearson correlation coefficients between variables were estimated using the PROC CORR procedure in SAS (SAS University Edition, SAS Institute Inc. Cary, CA, USA). Model adjustments and variable selection were performed using PROC REG in SAS (SAS University Edition, SAS Institute Inc. Cary, CA, USA). The STEPWISE option and Mallow's C(p) were used to select the variables included in the equations. Outliers were identified by evaluating the studentized residuals based on the predicted values from the equations. Residual analysis was predicted by regression minus observed values and those that fell outside the range of -2.5 to 2.5 were removed. Several statistics were used to assess the predictability of the equations, including the coefficients of determination (r2) and mean standard error (RMSE). The average ewe age at lambing was 3.4 ± 1.7 years, with an average weight of 56.9 ± 8,9 kg and average body condition score (BCS) of 2,4 ± 0.8 points. The average ewe age at weaning was 51.1 ± 7.9, with average BCS of 1.8 ± 0.8 points. The average lamb at birthing was 3.9 ± 0.9 kg. The average lamb at weaning was 21.0 ± 4.9, with daily gain of 0.2 ± 0.1 kg/day and total gain of 17.1 ± 4.7 kg birth to weaning. The lamb produced by ewe at lambing was 5.3 ± 1.7 kg/ewe. The lamb weaned by ewe at weaning was 28.7 ± 10.8 kg/ewe. The ratios of lamb produced per ewe at birth and at weaning were 0.1 ± 0.03 and 0.6 ± 0.2, respectively. The lamb’s birth weight showed a positive linear relationship with the age of the ewe, increasing by 115 g per year of age. The regression equations adjusted for ewe age had maximum points ranging from 4.2 to 5.2, occurring at average age of 4,7 years. The other characteristics showed a quadratic tendency. The results suggest the culling of ewes at five years of age to generate lambs with ideal weight at birth and at weaning raised in warm tropical pastures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The production of biofuels has caused an increase in the prices of agricultural commodities. Thus, the ecological footprint, social inclusion and profitability of production systems have encouraged the use of agroindustrial products as an alternative in ruminant feeds. Objective: To evaluate carcass yields, non-carcass components, and the economic viability of including licuri oil in diet of Santa Ines ewes. Methods: A total of 32 Santa Ines ewes (multiparous, non-lactating, 2–4 years old, and 36.7±0.87 kg of body weight—BW) were allotted to a randomized block design with four treatments (diets containing 0, 2, 4 or 5% licuri oil) with eight replicates per treatment, and confined for 77 days. Results: The incremental inclusion of licuri oil promoted a quadratic response on slaughter BW, carcass and true yields, chest widths, heart fat, pancreas, omental fat, and ribeye area (p

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different levels of concentrate supplementation on carcass characteristics of heifers finished on Tifton 85 pasture. Thirty-two cross-breed heifers (Charolais and Nellore) on average aged 25.51 months and weighing 298 kg were used in a completely randomized experiment. The animals were distributed uniformly to receive four different levels of concentrates based on the body weight: 0.0; 0.4; 0.8 and 1.2%. Animals were slaughtered at 29 months of age. There was increasing linear effect of levels energy supplementation on: slaughter weight, hot and cold carcass weights,hot and cold dressing percentage, thigh thickness, carcass compactness, and L* and b* color values. It was observed quadratic effect of levels of energy supplementation on the percentage of fat in the carcass. Different levels of energy supplementation did not modify the accumulation of vital organs and visceral fat or the sensory attributes of the meat. Higher levels of energy supplementation promote increases in carcass traits of heifers when finished on Tifton 85 pasture.

Many producers reseed old pasture (OP) with the objective of improving lamb performance. Old pasture was reseeded with perennial ryegrass plus white clover (RGC), RGC plus chicory (CG), RGC plus tyfon (TG), chicory (C), or tyfon (T) to generate five treatments. In addition, a contiguous block of OP was included in the study for comparative purposes. Lambs (n = 286) were assigned to one of the five treatments plus the section of OP from just after weaning until slaughter. Grazing commenced 45 days after the desiccation of OP for reseeding. All lambs were managed by rotational grazing and drafted for slaughter at a specified target BW. No concentrate supplement was offered during the study. For the RGC, CG, TG, C and T treatments and the OP section, the average herbage NDF concentrations were 524, 473, 402, 352, 256 and 565 (SE 15.4) g/kg DM; total grazing days were 5 213, 4 005, 4 466, 2 262, 3 496 and 3 677 (SE 629.3); BW gain to slaughter was 211, 175, 205, 211, 199 and 203 (SE 9.5) g/day; days to slaughter were 91, 100, 84, 86, 78 and 88 (SE 4.8). Compared to RGC, the C, T, CG and TG treatments had lower herbage NDF concentrations (P 0.05) for BW gain or days to slaughter. Chicory yielded significantly fewer (P

There are several by-products obtained in agricultural systems that can contribute to small-scale production systems within backyards, in this sense, the production of oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) has been integrated into the rural family economy in Mexico. After harvesting the fruiting bodies, the remainder is known as sold-out substrate, this by-product has been destined for other agricultural uses such as: medium for seedlings, vermiculture or fertilizer; however, there are studies where it has been used in the diet of bovine cattle. In this study, the effects of sold-out substrate (corn stubble) of P. ostreatus in the diet of broilers with different percentages of protein, on feed conversion ratio, carcass yield, and broiler meat quality were evaluated. A total of 120 broilers Ross 308 were randomly assigned in 12 pens with concrete floor and curly shaving with an area of 3 m2. During the initial period (1 to 28 days), all broilers were fed commercial feed® mixture. On day 29, the broilers were weighed and divided into four treatment groups and fed diets with different percentages of protein until the end of the experiment. Feed conversion ratio was significantly higher in treatment control (TC) compared to the other treatments; however, the performance parameters were not affected by the diet supplemented with sold-out substrate, likewise, the color and quality of the meat were in a normal range (48 < L* < 51) and with a good amount of crude protein. Sold-out substrate of P. ostreatus from corn stubble presented a high mineral content of Mg, Na, K, Fe, Cu, and Mn suitable to be considered in diets for feeding backyard broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The beef industry plays a crucial role in the livestock supply chain, and data are becoming increasingly vital for informed decision-making. In Australia, significant amounts of data are collected within cattle farms; however, due to a lack of suitable data-driven methods, much of the data go to waste without being effectively utilized. This study developed a statistical model to predict the carcass weight (CW) of grass-fed beef cattle at four different stages before slaughter using farm-level data. Two statistical modelling approaches were used, and results were compared. Four timespans prior to the slaughter, i.e., 1 month, 3 months, 9–10 months, and at weaning, were considered in the predictive modelling. Seven phenotypic features of cattle were used to describe the CW. The results showed that the CW of the cattle was strongly associated with the animal's body weight at each stage before slaughter. The CW can be predicted with an average error of 4% (~12–16 kg) at three months before slaughter. The predictive error increased gradually when moving away from the slaughter date, where the prediction error at weaning was ~8% (~20–25 kg). The outcomes of this study demonstrate the value of using historical data in optimizing production and improving efficiency in the supply chain. Gaining insights into the utilization of farm-level data for decision-making within the beef industry is vital for improving production and profitability. In this study, we present a statistical model to predict the carcass weight (CW) of grass-fed beef cattle at different stages before slaughter using historical cattle data. Models were developed using two approaches: boosted regression trees and multiple linear regression. A sample of 2995 grass-fed beef cattle from 3 major properties in Northern Australia was used in the modeling. Four timespans prior to the slaughter, i.e., 1 month, 3 months, 9–10 months, and at weaning, were considered in the predictive modelling. Seven predictors, i.e., weaning weight, weight gain since weaning to each stage before slaughter, time since weaning to each stage before slaughter, breed, sex, weaning season (wet and dry), and property, were used as the potential predictors of the CW. To assess the predictive performance in each scenario, a test set which was not used to train the models was utilized. The results showed that the CW of the cattle was strongly associated with the animal's body weight at each stage before slaughter. The results showed that the CW can be predicted with a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 4% (~12–16 kg) at three months before slaughter. The predictive error increased gradually when moving away from the slaughter date, e.g., the prediction error at weaning was ~8% (~20–25 kg). The overall predictive performances of the two statistical approaches was approximately similar, and neither of the models substantially outperformed each other. Predicting the CW in advance of slaughter may allow farmers to adequately prepare for forthcoming needs at the farm level, such as changing husbandry practices, control inventory, and estimate price return, thus allowing them to maximize the profitability of the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to find the correlation between different live animal physical measurements and some economically important carcass parameters and to predict these carcass parameters using multiple linear regression models. Heart girth and flank girth showed a highly significant (p

Introduction: Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified genetic markers for cattle production and reproduction traits. Several publications have reported Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) for carcass-related traits in cattle, but these studies were rarely conducted in pasture-finished beef cattle. Hawai'i, however, has a diverse climate, and 100% of its beef cattle are pasture-fed. Methods: Blood samples were collected from 400 cattle raised in Hawai'i islands at the commercial harvest facility. Genomic DNA was isolated, and 352 highquality samples were genotyped using the Neogen GGP Bovine 100 K BeadChip. SNPs that did not meet the quality control standards were removed using PLINK 1.9, and 85 k high-quality SNPs from 351 cattle were used for association mapping with carcass weight using GAPIT (Version 3.0) in R 4.2. Four models were used for the GWAS analysis: General Linear Model (GLM), the Mixed Linear Model (MLM), the Fixed and Random Model Circulating Probability Unification (FarmCPU), the Bayesian-Information and Linkage-Disequilibrium Iteratively Nested Keyway (BLINK). Results and Discussion: Our results indicated that the two multi-locus models, FarmCPU and BLINK, outperformed single-locus models, GLM and MLM, in beef herds in this study. Specifically, five significant SNPs were identified using FarmCPU, while BLINK and GLM each identified the other three. Also, three of these eleven SNPs ("BTA-40510-no-rs", "BovineHD1400006853", and "BovineHD2100020346") were shared by multiple models. The significant SNPs were mapped to genes such as EIF5, RGS20, TCEA1, LYPLA1, and MRPL15, which were previously reported to be associated with carcass-related traits, growth, and feed intake in several tropical cattle breeds. This confirms that the genes identified in this study could be candidate genes for carcass weight in pasture-fed beef cattle and can be selected for further breeding programs to improve the carcass yield and productivity of pasture-finished beef cattle in Hawai'i and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate quality and sensory variation in wild boar meat in comparison to pork. Meat quality in wild boar is expected to vary more compared to pork due to different feeding environment, age and gender. In order to be able to promote wild boar meat as a sustainable high-quality product, there is a need to evaluate the variation in meat quality attributes, including technological, compositional and sensory/texture aspects. We evaluated carcass characteristics, pH, colour, lipid profile and sensory aspects of wild boar meat of different age and gender and compared them with pork. Wild boars had lower carcass weight (p = <0.0001) and higher ultimate pH (p = 0.0063) compared to domestic pigs. Intramuscular fat content had a tendency to be higher in wild boar meat (p = 0.1010), as well as the proportion of nutritional valuable n-3 FA (p = 0.0029). The colour of pork was more pink (p = 0.0276) and pale (p = <0.0001) compared to meat from wild boar. Meat from wild boar gilts received the highest sensory scores. Based on these findings, we suggest that meat from younger animals could be sold in different cuts directly while meat from older animals might be more suitable for the production of sausage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Pork belly is the most preferable and expensive primal cut among various primal cuts in Korea. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of pig carcass grade with the amount of pork belly (kg). Methods: In total, 350 179 Landrace, Yorkshire, and Duroc (LYD) pigs were graded with the Korean Pig Carcass Grade System. Amount of pork belly cut was estimated with an AutoFom III equipment. Key results: Distribution characteristics of carcass weight, backfat thickness, belly weight, and belly fat percentage were analysed. When the yield of pork belly was investigated by grade, lower-grade carcass had a higher amount of pork belly (P < 0.0001). The correlation coefficients between carcass weight and belly weight were 0.798 for Grade 1+, 0.906 for Grade 1, and 0.932 for Grade 2 (P < 0.0001). The correlation between backfat thickness and belly weight was lower with a decreasing grade. Regression analysis was performed with carcass weight or backfat thickness as a dependent variable and belly weight as an independent variable. Coefficients of determination (ρ 2) of carcass weight and belly weight for each grade were higher for a lower grade (0.637 for Grade 1+, 0.821 for Grade 1, 0.867 for Grade 2). Conclusion: The lower-grade pork belly, the most expensive in Korea, had a higher quantity of pork belly, and the correlation coefficient between pork belly and carcass weight and between pork belly and backfat thickness was higher as the lower grade level increased. Implication: For a reasonable price of pork in the market, the current lean meat-based carcass-grading system should also include the yield of each primal cut. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of the pig carcass grade system with the pork belly carcass weight and backfat thickness. The correlation coefficient did not show significance between pig carcass grade and backfat thickness. However, a significant difference was found in carcass weight. The grading system should be modified to reflect the meat quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study evaluated the effect of sex and slaughter weight on carcass traits and non-carcass components of 1,489 horses (739 geldings and 750 females, classified into eight groups according to their weight). Data were analyzed under a completely randomized design. Geldings had a higher (P < 0.05) hot carcass yield (HCY) and cold carcass yield (CCY) than females; however, fat yellowness values (b*) were greater (P < 0.05) in females. Slaughter weight (SW) affected the carcass characteristics. Hot carcass weight (HCW), cold carcass weight (CCW), HCY, and CCY increased (P < 0.05) in accordance with slaughter weight, while cool loss percentage (CL%) was lower (P < 0.05) in horses weighing more than 300 kg. In addition, the non-carcass components decreased (P < 0.05) as the weight of the horses increased. In conclusion, sex and body weight are factors to consider in the production of equine meat since they affect carcass characteristics and noncarcass components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to understand and predict the intake and performance of Nellore cattle finished in the feedlot. Individual data from 144 non-castrated male Nellore steers finished in the feedlot between the years 2016 and 2020 were used. Descriptive statistical analyses and Pearson's correlation were performed. The outliers were tested by evaluating the studentized residuals in relation to the values predicted by the equations. Residues that were outside the range of − 2.5 to 2.5 were removed. The goodness of fit of the developed equations was evaluated by the coefficients of determination (r2) and root mean square error (RMSE). The mean dry matter intake (DMI) was 10.2 kg/day, neutral detergent fiber intake (NDFI) was 3.4 kg/day, corresponding to 33.3% of DMI, crude protein intake (CPI) was 1.6 kg/day, and total digestible nutrient intake (TDNI) was 7.1 kg/day. The CPI to ADG ratio was 1.3 kg CPI/kg ADG and the TDNI to CPI ratio was 4.5 kg TDNI/kg CPI. The averages of productive performance were 1.3 kg/day for average daily gain (ADG), 152.6 kg for total weight gain (TWG), and 497.8 kg for final body weight (FBW) in average days in the confinement of 115.7 days. The intake measures correlated significantly with the performance measures, except for carcass yield and days in the feedlot. TWG had a high positive correlation with ADG (r = 0.84), while FBW had a positive correlation (r = 0.86) with hot carcass weight (HCW). Measures of intake, performance, and days in the feedlot can be used as predictors of DMI, FBW, HCW, TWG, and ADG. The prediction equations had satisfactory precision and accuracy for non-castrated Nellore cattle finished in feedlot systems under tropical conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Tropical Animal & Veterinary Sciences / Jurnal Ilmu Peternakan dan Veteriner Tropis is the property of Fakultas Peternakan Universitas Papua and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The study of meat productivity of introduced cattle breeds in Western Siberia using adaptive technologies is of scientific and practical interest. We carried out the experiment on five cattle groups of Hereford, Limousin, Charolais, Aubrac and Salers bull calves. Furthermore, we determined the indicators of weight growth from birth to 18 months and meat productivity at the age of 18 months. At birth, live weight control was carried out at 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18 months when weighing animals in the morning before feeding and watering. We studied meat productivity during the control slaughter of animals at the Yalutorovsky meat processing plant. Three heads from each group were slaughtered. The slaughter was carried out according to the Lenin All-Union Academy of Agricultural Sciences [VASKhNIL] method. The experimental material was processed by the method of variation statistics using the Microsoft Excel software application. Steers of French meat breeds surpass Hereford cattle breeds in terms of live weight and average daily growth. The carcass weight of Charolais animals is 329.5 kg, which is 75.3 kg more than in Hereford bulls, P≥0.999. The results of the chemical analysis indicate that the highest fat content is contained in the minced meat of Hereford bulls – 10.6%. Introduced cattle breeds, when bred under new conditions, showed a fairly high level of meat productivity, carcasses were obtained during slaughter, with an optimal ratio of tissues and chemical composition of carcasses, in terms of the yield of edible parts in the carcass and the meat content coefficient, they surpass the Hereford cattle breed. Thus, French meat breeds are promising for beef production in Western Siberia.

Introduction: Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified genetic markers for cattle production and reproduction traits. Several publications have reported Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) for carcass-related traits in cattle, but these studies were rarely conducted in pasture-finished beef cattle. Hawai’i, however, has a diverse climate, and 100% of its beef cattle are pasture-fed.Methods: Blood samples were collected from 400 cattle raised in Hawai’i islands at the commercial harvest facility. Genomic DNA was isolated, and 352 high-quality samples were genotyped using the Neogen GGP Bovine 100 K BeadChip. SNPs that did not meet the quality control standards were removed using PLINK 1.9, and 85 k high-quality SNPs from 351 cattle were used for association mapping with carcass weight using GAPIT (Version 3.0) in R 4.2. Four models were used for the GWAS analysis: General Linear Model (GLM), the Mixed Linear Model (MLM), the Fixed and Random Model Circulating Probability Unification (FarmCPU), the Bayesian-Information and Linkage-Disequilibrium Iteratively Nested Keyway (BLINK).Results and Discussion: Our results indicated that the two multi-locus models, FarmCPU and BLINK, outperformed single-locus models, GLM and MLM, in beef herds in this study. Specifically, five significant SNPs were identified using FarmCPU, while BLINK and GLM each identified the other three. Also, three of these eleven SNPs (“BTA-40510-no-rs”, “BovineHD1400006853”, and “BovineHD2100020346”) were shared by multiple models. The significant SNPs were mapped to genes such as EIF5, RGS20, TCEA1, LYPLA1, and MRPL15, which were previously reported to be associated with carcass-related traits, growth, and feed intake in several tropical cattle breeds. This confirms that the genes identified in this study could be candidate genes for carcass weight in pasture-fed beef cattle and can be selected for further breeding programs to improve the carcass yield and productivity of pasture-finished beef cattle in Hawai’i and beyond.

Feed additives is important to improve the appearance of duck production. The purpose of this study was to determine the weight and proportion of Mojosari Laying Duck carcass parts that contained calcium phytobiotics. Twenty-four flocks of 120 mojosari laying ducks (24-week-old) were used. Variation Analysis was used to statistically examine the data (ANOVA). Duncan's Multiple Distance Test is used if the study's data show a substantial difference between treatments. A Complete Randomized Design is employed using 6 treatments and 4 tests, each containing 5 mojosari laying ducks. Treatment (P0) is the control feed, (P1) is the control feed plus zinc bacitracin, (P2) is the control feed plus phytobiotics 0.25%, (P3) is the control feed plus phytobiotics 0.50%, (P4) is the control feed plus phytobiotics 0.75%, and (P5) is the control feed plus 1% phytobiotics. The findings demonstrated that the addition of phytobiotic calcium did not significantly affect carcass weight or the percentage of carcass parts (P>0.05). However, (P2) increased the carcass weight compared to the control meal. Weight of the carcass produced is 792.50±91.06 – 972.50±86.84. The percentage of carcasses is 50±0.05 - 57±0.07. The percentage of back pieces was 32.19±1.54 – 36.32±2.94. The percentage of chest pieces was 7.26±0.84 – 8.63±0.97. The percentage of wing pieces was 14.46±0.48 – 13.63±1.93. The percentage of upper thigh pieces produced was 9.50±0.82 – 10.35±2.31, and the percentage of lower thigh pieces was 11.48±0.91 – 13.34±1.97. Results showed that the addition of phytobiotic calcium did not significantly affect the proportion of parts and carcass weight (P>0.05).

Cull dairy cows account for around 27 percent of total head EU beef and veal production. For the Netherlands specific, even 42 percent (European Commission, 2022). As they are primarily kept to produce milk, red meat production is an additional source of revenue for dairy farmers. Insights in postmortem health observations that are not always visible on the living animal such as heart or liver issues, bruises, adhesions and injuries on the locomotor system, may contain valuable information for farmers to increase revenue and reduce losses in red meat production from cull dairy cows. Our goal was to obtain insights in the association of postmortem health observations with carcass weight and trimming losses. Data of 592,268 slaughter cows were available for analysis and models were built to explain carcass and trimming loss by the postmortem health observations. Carcass weight is lower for younger cows (-3.2 to -84.9 kg), cows with multiple health observations (-7.4 to -34.3 kg) and specific observations for the locomotor system (-16.7 to -22.7 kg), back (-17.9 kg), hindquarter (-21.6 kg) and chest and ribs (-15.5 to -27.6 kg). Total number of health observations (+2.0 to +6.5 kg), observations on the locomotor system (+3.3 to +5.4 kg) and on the chest and ribs (+2.2 to +9.8 kg) were the main predictors for trimming loss. Carcass weight is more affected by systemic health issues and diseases prior to slaughter leading to a negative energy balance and consequently reduced carcass weight. Trimming loss is more a consequence of the focus on meat quality and food safety in the slaughter process. Better understanding of the effect of on-farm management, on health, carcass weight and trimming loss will provide new insights for farmers and veterinarians but will also give them more action perspective to improve dairy farm preventive management and reduce losses at slaughter.

Simple Summary: Withers height and chest girth in calves were significantly correlated with carcass weight and body weight, regardless of sex. Meanwhile, the relationship between blood metabolites and carcass weight differed according to sex. Body measurements and blood metabolites measured during the growing period could be used to determine the nutritional and physiological status of cattle and predict the final carcass weight, but the animal factor, such as sex, should be considered. This study aimed to identify the growth performance and blood factors associated with carcass weight in Japanese Black calves based on 675 performance tests and field carcass records. We measured the body weight, withers height, and chest girth at the start of fattening age (approximately 8–10 months) and analyzed eight blood factors, including vitamins and metabolites. Single- and two-trait animal models were used to estimate the heritability and genetic correlations. The heritability estimates for growth performance were moderate to high (ranging from 0.48 to 0.74), and those for blood metabolites were low to moderate (ranging from 0.19 to 0.51). Estimates for genetic correlations of carcass or body weight with body weight, withers height, and chest girth were high (ranging from 0.42 to 0.80). The body weight and withers height at 8 months of age are possibly closely related to the final carcass weight. The blood metabolites associated with body weight were vitamin E in steers (castrated males) and β-carotene in heifers. Our findings indicate that body measurements and blood metabolites measured during the growing period could be used to determine the nutritional and physiological status of cattle as well as predict carcass weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal level of noni fruit extract supplemented with Cu and Zn (ENF) as feed additives in the meat conversion of Sentul chickens. The study used 100 DOC Sentul chickens that were kept until 12 weeks old. The experimental design used was a completely randomized design (CRD) with 5 treatments and 4 replications, namely basal ration (PO), basal ration added with 50 mg/kg Bacitacin Zn (P1), Basal ration added with 125 mg/kg ENF (P2), Basal ration was added with 250 mg/kg ENF (P3), and Basal ration was added with 375 mg/kg ENF (P4). The parameters observed were protein consumption, body weight gain, carcass weight, protein conversion, and meat protein conversion. The results showed that the five treatments had a significant effect on all treatments in Sentul chickens. It can be said that providing a basal ration that was added up to a level of 375 mg/kg of noni fruit extract supplemented with Cu and Zn (P4) quantitatively had results that were close to the positive control results (P1) so that the noni fruit extract with Cu and Zn supplements was expected substitute for antibiotics that can improve livestock performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We fitted statistical models, which assumed single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) marker effects differing across the fattened steers marketed into different prefectures, to the records for cold carcass weight (CW) and marbling score (MS) of 1036, 733, and 279 Japanese Black fattened steers marketed into Tottori, Hiroshima, and Hyogo prefectures in Japan, respectively. Genotype data on 33,059 SNPs was used. Five models that assume only common SNP effects to all the steers (model 1), common effects plus SNP effects differing between the steers marketed into Hyogo prefecture and others (model 2), only the SNP effects differing between Hyogo steers and others (model 3), common effects plus SNP effects specific to each prefecture (model 4), and only the effects specific to each prefecture (model 5) were exploited. For both traits, slightly lower values of residual variance than that of model 1 were estimated when fitting all other models. Estimated genetic correlation among the prefectures in models 2 and 4 ranged to 0.53 to 0.71, all <0.8. These results might support that the SNP effects differ among the prefectures to some degree, although we discussed the necessity of careful consideration to interpret the current results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Woody roughage produced from Japanese white birch (Betula platyphylla var. japonica) in response to high-temperature/high-pressure steam treatment was assessed for application in the fattening of Japanese Black cattle. We found that whereas the average carcass weight of six cattle fed fermented bagasse and rice straw as a conventional roughage was 437 kg, that of six cattle fed woody roughage instead of fermented bagasse was 472 kg (P < 0.10). However, the average carcass weight of five cattle fed twice the amount of woody roughage was 451 kg, which was not significantly different from that of cattle fed the conventional roughage. In this assessment, we detected no significant difference in the fatty acid composition of the chest M. longissimus thoracis, or in other traits associated with meat quality. Similarly, no significant difference was detected in the daily gain of cattle fed the conventional and woody roughage feeds for approximately the first 10 months of fattening. Moreover, blood tests and medical examinations performed during this period revealed no health problems among the assessed cattle. At approximately 10 months following the commencement of fattening, the fecal solids of cattle fed the conventional and woody roughage and feed were 0.89 and 1.13 times, respectively (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the rumination times of cattle fed woody roughage (301 min/day) trended to be longer than those of cattle fed the conventional roughage (333 min/day) (P < 0.10). We also assessed the effect of switching the fermented bagasse diet of the entire ranch to woody roughage, and compared the carcass performance of 50 Japanese Black fattening cattle before and after switching. We accordingly detected improvements in four of the seven assessed major grading traits. The average carcass weights before and after switching were 443 kg and 464 kg, respectively, and an increase in carcass weight was confirmed even when age and breeding value were taken into consideration (P < 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was carried out with the purpose of estimating hot carcass weight by using parameters such as race, carcass weight and age with Multivariate Adaptive Regression Spline (MARS) algorithm. To achieve this goal, 700 cattle data belonging to the years 2017-2018, which were taken in equal numbers from 7 different breeds, were used. A total of 700 data were used, taking equal numbers of data from each breed. In order to test the accuracy of the model created in the research, the data set was divided into two data subsets as training and test subsets. In order to test the compatibility of these separated subsets with the MARS model, a new package program named “ehaGoF” which estimates 15 goodness of fit criteria was used. According to the analysis results, the MARS model with the smallest SDRATIO (0.157, 0.130) and the highest determination coefficient (R2) (0.975, 0.983) of the training and test sets, respectively, was determined. Looking at the other fit values, it is seen that the training and test set are quite compatible. In terms of hot carcass weight among the breeds, it was determined that the Limousine race performed higher than the other breeds. As a result, the implementation of the MARS algorithm can allow livestock breeders to obtain effective clues by using independent variables such as breed, age, and body weight in estimating hot carcass weight.

This study aimed to determine the effect of lactic acid bacteria probiotics on the performance of kampung super chicken. Kampung super chicken is the result of a cross between a layer chicken and a superior kampung super chicken. A total of 48 kampung super chickens aged 14 days were randomized into 4 treatments and each treatment consisted of 12 chickens. This study was conducted for 1 week of adaptation and 5 weeks of treatment. This study used 4 different treatments including P0 not using probiotics, P1 using probiotics as much as 1 ml/liter drinking water, P2 using probiotics as much as 2 ml/liter drinking water and P3 using probiotics as much as 4 ml/liter drinking water. In conclusion, based on the results of the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) showed that p

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of the use of probiotic lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactococcus lactis, and Bifidobacterium sp) on feed efficiency, carcass weight and carcass percentage in broiler ducks. Probiotics lactic acid bacteria produce bacteriocins and organic acids that inhibit the growth of pathogenic microbes in the digestive tract of poultry, so that the intestinal villi of broiler ducks are healthy. Besides that, probiotics are able to reduce cholesterol levels in meat when consumed by humans and can improve health. This study used 48 peking ducks. The probiotics of Lactic Acid Bacteria used were a concentration of 1.2 x 108 CFU/ml. In this study there were four different treatments, namely P0 (without probiotics), P1 (given 1 ml probiotics/liter drinking water), P2 (given 2 ml probiotics/liter drinking water) and P3 (given 3 ml probiotics/liter of drinking water). The results of the feed efficiency study showed that there was a significant difference (p0.05). The highest carcass weight was P3 (1749.92 g) and the lowest was P0 (1709.25 g). The results of the study on the percentage of carcass weight showed a significant difference (p

Is it possible to reduce feeding costs in rabbit meat production without compromising rabbit health and productive yield? The study tested four feeding strategies: Control group (CC) fed exclusively with concentrate feed; group CT supplemented with whole carrot; group OH supplemented with oat hay; and Group CO supplemented with oat hay and whole carrot. Each feeding strategy was tested in 20 rabbits, randomly allocated in five cages with four rabbits each. The average daily weight gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and the amount of concentrated feed consumed daily were estimated in all experimental groups. Group CC displayed the best ADG (37.1 g/rabbit/day), carrot had no significant influence on ADG (34.2 g/rabbit/day), but oat hay had a negative impact (p < 0.05), either used alone or in combination with carrot (33.0 and 32.6 g/rabbit/day, respectively). Supplementation with carrot, oat hay, or both increased the FCR (p < 0.001). Nevertheless, there were no significant differences in final live weight or carcass weight between the rabbits in the different experimental groups. In conclusion, supplementation with oat hay, carrot, or both can be a valid approach to reducing production costs by decreasing concentrate feed without affecting rabbit’s health and meat yield. The combined supplementation with oat hay and carrot proved to be the best option in reducing the amount of concentrate feed ingested by rabbits (less than 1107 g/animal), but at current market values, supplementation exclusively with oat hay was the less expensive feeding strategy (less 14% than fed exclusively with concentrate feeding).

As pork consumption increases, rapid and accurate determination of porcine carcass grades at abattoirs has become important. Non-destructive, automated inspection methods have improved slaughter efficiency in abattoirs. Furthermore, the development of a calibration equation suitable for non-destructive inspection of domestic pig breeds may lead to rapid determination of pig carcass and more objective pork grading judgement. In order to increase the efficiency of pig slaughter, the correct estimation of the automated-method that can accommodate the existing pig carcass judgement should be made. In this study, the previously developed calibration equation was verified to confirm whether the estimated traits accord with the actual measured traits of pig carcass. A total of 1,069,019 pigs, to which the developed calibration equation, was applied were used in the study and the optimal estimated regression equation for actual measured two traits (backfat thickness and hot carcass weight) was proposed using the estimated traits. The accuracy of backfat thickness and hot carcass weight traits in the estimated regression models through stepwise regression analysis was 0.840 (R2) and 0.980 (R2), respectively. By comparing the actually measured traits with the estimated traits, we proposed optimal estimated regression equation for the two measured traits, which we expect will be a cornerstone for the Korean porcine carcass grading system.

Native livestock breeds are part of the history of the Nordic people and comprise a resource for future food production. In this study, net gain and carcass characteristics of two Danish, three Finnish, one Icelandic, six Norwegian and five Swedish native cattle breeds were retrieved and compared to commercial breeds: two beef breeds and two dairy breeds. Breed data were collected from national databases and sorted into six animal categories: young bull, bull, steer, heifer, young cow and cow, for which means and standard deviations were calculated within each country. The native breeds ranged from small-sized milking type breeds with low net gain, carcass weights and EUROP classification to larger multipurpose breeds with high net gains, carcass weights and EUROP classification. All Finnish and most of the Norwegian and Swedish native breeds had lower net gain and carcass weight than the dairy breeds in the same category and country, but with similar carcass conformation and fatness scores. The two Danish native breeds had higher net gain, carcass weight and conformation class than the reference dairy breed, but lower than the reference beef breeds. The net gain and carcass traits of the Icelandic native breed were similar to the smallest-sized native breeds from the other countries. The carcass traits of the native breeds indicate that they have comparative advantages in an extensive production system based on forage and marginal grasslands. They may also succeed better in the value-added markets than in mainstream beef production.

This study evaluated the correlation between hot carcass weight (HCW), back fat thickness (BFT), and fatness of whole pork belly and belly slices. Pork bellies were obtained from 50 barrows and 50 gilts. The fat content (v/v) of the whole pork belly and belly slices was measured using computer tomography and hyperspectral image analysis, respectively. Barrows and gilts showed significant differences only for HCW (p<0.05). The fat content of pork belly slices varied with location and was the highest at the 10 th thoracic vertebra (TV). Although no significant difference was observed in the fat content between the belly slices of the 6 th TV and the 12 th -14 th TVs (p>0.05), a difference in the fat distribution was observed. HCW and BFT were significantly correlated with the fat content of whole pork belly, but not with the fat content of pork belly slices. Therefore, HCW and BFT are not suitable for monitoring the fatness of pork belly slices, and further research on the factors that can be used for monitoring the fatness of pork belly is necessary., Competing Interests: The authors declare no potential conflicts of interest., (© Korean Society for Food Science of Animal Resources.)

The impact of age, live weight, and growth rate of the bulls of Ukrainian breeds on the area of “muscle eye” (cross-section of m. longissimus dorsi when the carcass is divided into front and rear between the 12th and 13th ribs) was studied. The correlation between the size of the “muscle eye” and the carcass's characteristics and the meat's qualitative indicators was also determined. The research was conducted on the bulls of Ukrainian black-and-white dairy (UBWDB) and Ukrainian meat (UMB) breeds. Living animals “muscle eye” area was determined with the ultrasonic analyser Emperor 860, after slaughter. It was found that UMB bulls have the area of “muscle eye” twice as big as their UBWDB peers. The “muscle eye” area increases when growing the cattle to 400 – 450 kg. In the future, it will be practically independent of the age and weight of the animals and remains stable. An increase in the average daily gains within the breed leads to an increase in the “muscle eye” area. The area of “muscle eye” has a weak negative connection (r = -0.193) with meat tenderness and dry matter content (r = -0.345) and a positive one with slaughter weight (r = 0.614) and slaughter yield (r = 0.653). Of the three parameters (length, depth, and area) of “muscle eye”, the greatest impact on the technological properties of meat has depth. Its increase has a negative connection with meat tenderness (r = -0.810) and moisture (r = -0.474), but it has a positive impact on the moisture retention capacity (r = 0.338) and weight of weighed portion after heat treatment. The obtained results can be used to clarify the optimal growing parameters of the bulls of Ukrainian black-and-white dairy and meat breeds for meat and determine the optimal age and live weight of the cattle slaughter.

There are several by-products obtained in agricultural systems that can contribute to small-scale production systems within backyards, in this sense, the production of oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) has been integrated into the rural family economy in Mexico. After harvesting the fruiting bodies, the remainder is known as sold-out substrate, this by-product has been destined for other agricultural uses such as: medium for seedlings, vermiculture or fertilizer; however, there are studies where it has been used in the diet of bovine cattle. In this study, the effects of sold-out substrate (corn stubble) of P. ostreatus in the diet of broilers with different percentages of protein, on feed conversion ratio, carcass yield, and broiler meat quality were evaluated. A total of 120 broilers Ross 308 were randomly assigned in 12 pens with concrete floor and curly shaving with an area of 3 m2. During the initial period (1 to 28 days), all broilers were fed commercial feed® mixture. On day 29, the broilers were weighed and divided into four treatment groups and fed diets with different percentages of protein until the end of the experiment. Feed conversion ratio was significantly higher in treatment control (TC) compared to the other treatments; however, the performance parameters were not affected by the diet supplemented with sold-out substrate, likewise, the color and quality of the meat were in a normal range (48 < L* < 51) and with a good amount of crude protein. Sold-out substrate of P. ostreatus from corn stubble presented a high mineral content of Mg, Na, K, Fe, Cu, and Mn suitable to be considered in diets for feeding backyard broilers.

Gaining insights into the utilization of farm-level data for decision-making within the beef industry is vital for improving production and profitability. In this study, we present a statistical model to predict the carcass weight (CW) of grass-fed beef cattle at different stages before slaughter using historical cattle data. Models were developed using two approaches: boosted regression trees and multiple linear regression. A sample of 2995 grass-fed beef cattle from 3 major properties in Northern Australia was used in the modeling. Four timespans prior to the slaughter, i.e., 1 month, 3 months, 9–10 months, and at weaning, were considered in the predictive modelling. Seven predictors, i.e., weaning weight, weight gain since weaning to each stage before slaughter, time since weaning to each stage before slaughter, breed, sex, weaning season (wet and dry), and property, were used as the potential predictors of the CW. To assess the predictive performance in each scenario, a test set which was not used to train the models was utilized. The results showed that the CW of the cattle was strongly associated with the animal’s body weight at each stage before slaughter. The results showed that the CW can be predicted with a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 4% (~12–16 kg) at three months before slaughter. The predictive error increased gradually when moving away from the slaughter date, e.g., the prediction error at weaning was ~8% (~20–25 kg). The overall predictive performances of the two statistical approaches was approximately similar, and neither of the models substantially outperformed each other. Predicting the CW in advance of slaughter may allow farmers to adequately prepare for forthcoming needs at the farm level, such as changing husbandry practices, control inventory, and estimate price return, thus allowing them to maximize the profitability of the industry.

This study was conducted to investigate the influence of age and body weight on carcass composition of white Fulani cattle raised n Akwa Ibom State University, Obio Akpa, Nigeria. Nine male white Fulani cattle were used for the study, which were categorized into three age groups (3 - 3.5, 4 - 5 and 5.5 - 6.5 years) respectively. Data on the animal carcass composition and external offal (slaughter weight, carcass weight (CW) and dressing percentage) were obtained, predicting model for carcass composition were also generated. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance. The results indicated that means for dressing percentages for the three age groups were 52.93 ± 1.18, 51.84 ± 0.53 and 53.92 ± 0.76 respectively. The results also indicated that age had significant influence (p<0.05) on live weight (LW), carcass composition and some external offal. The correlation between LW and carcass compositions were high with correlation coefficient ranging from 0.64 - 0.97, 0.90 - 1.00 and 0.71 - 0.99 for age groups 3 - 3.5 years, 4 - 5 years and 5.5 - 6.5 years respectively. However, the correlation between age, carcass composition and external offal were also positively high with correlation coefficient ranging from 0.50 - 1.00, 0.84 - 1.00 and 0.78 - 0.96 respectively across the different age group. Thus, this study revealed a strong and positive (p<0.001) relationship between animal age, LW, carcass composition and some external offal. The present study could be used as reliable indices for carcass composition and some external offal prediction or estimation as age strongly influenced animal LW and carcass trait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was conducted to evaluate the replacement potential of Acacia nilotica dried leaf meal for Noug Seed Cake (NSC) to supplement low quality grass hay in the diet of crossbred sheep (25% Dorper). In doing so, four treatments were set up in such a way that 0%, 33%, 67%, and 100% NSC is replaced with dried leaf of Acacia nilotica from a conventional supplement while the treatments were kept isonitrogenous. The experiment was set up in a Randomized Complete Block Design, with initials weight used as the blocking factor. Twenty animals were allocated to the four treatments. The experiment consisted of hundred days of feeding trial followed by evaluation of carcass components at the end. In addition, the experimental feed ingredient was studied in vitro for gas production, methane (CH4) production, fractional rate of degradation (Kd), and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD). In view of chemical composition, grass hay contained lower crude protein (CP = 3.2% DM) and high cell wall contents that makes it lower quality feed. On the other hand, Acacia nilotica leaf meal was moderate in quality (CP = 14.3% DM) that can support moderate level of ruminant production. In an in vitro study, Acacia nilotica was found to have lower (P < 0.01) levels of CH4, total gas, kd, and IVDMD compared to the other feed ingredients. This indicates that tannin have an effect on Acacia nilotica feed. Partial and complete replacement of NSC with Acacia nilotica leaf meal significantly increased total dry matter intake (TDMI) (P < 0.001). Average daily gain (ADG) and dressing percentage was also higher for leaf meal supplemented groups. Hot carcass weight was in the range of 14.8–17.8 kg, which is higher than the national average carcass weight for Ethiopian sheep, and it was also found to be higher when NSC was partially (33%) as well as completely replaced by the leaf meal. In general, NSC can be replaced either partially or completely with Acacia nilotica leaf meal in the diet of 25% Dorper crosses while weight gain as well as carcass yield is promoted. The maximum inclusion level of Acacia nilotica was 61.3% or 319.2 g per day for 25% Dorper cross sheep fed natural pasture hay as a basal diet.

• In vivo 3D imaging to estimate empty body and carcass chemical composition. • Body shape traits captured by 3D imaging of growing beef-on-dairy crossbred bulls. • Along the growth trajectory and at terminal slaughter BW, chemical component masses are well estimated. • Estimates of chemical component proportions are slightly less precise. • On-farm body composition phenotyping throughout the cattle's production cycle. The dynamics of cattle body chemical composition during growth and fattening periods determine animal performance and beef carcass quality. The aim of this study was to estimate the empty body (EB) and carcass chemical composition of growing beef-on-dairy crossbred bulls (Brown Swiss breed as dam with Angus, Limousin or Simmental as sire) using three-dimensional (3D) imaging. The 3D images of the cattle's external body shape were recorded in vivo on 48 bulls along growth trajectory (75–520 kg BW and 34–306 kg hot carcass weight [ HCW ]; set 1) and on 70 bulls at target market slaughter weight, including 18 animals from set 1 (average 517 ± 10 kg BW and 289 ± 10 kg HCW; set 2). The linear, circumference, curve, surface and volume measurements on the 3D body shape were determined. Those predictive variables were used in partial least square regressions, together with the effect of the sire breed whenever significant (P < 0.05), with leave-one-out cross-validation to estimate water, lipid, protein, mineral and energy mass or proportions in the EB and carcass. Mass and proportions were determined directly from postmortem grinding and chemical analyses (set 1) or indirectly using the 11th rib dissection method (set 2). In set 1, bulls' BW and HCW were estimated via 3D imaging, with root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 12 kg and 6 kg, respectively. The EB and carcass chemical component proportions were estimated with RMSEP from 0.2% for EB minerals (observed mean 3.7 ± 0.2%) to 1.8% for EB lipid (11.6 ± 4.2%), close to the RMSEP found for the carcass. In set 2, the RMSEP for estimation via 3D imaging was 9 kg for BW and 6 kg for HCW. The EB energy and protein proportions were estimated, with RMSEP of 0.5 MJ/kg fresh matter (10.1 ± 0.8 MJ/DM) and 0.2% (18.7 ± 0.7%), respectively. Overall, the estimations of chemical component proportions from 3D imaging were slightly less precise for both sets than the mass estimations. The morphological traits from the 3D images appeared to be precise estimators of BW, HCW as well as EB and carcass chemical component masses and proportions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]