COMPOSIÇÃO QUÍMICA DA CARNE DE CABRITOS ABATIDOS EM IDADES DIFERENTES.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition of meat from three portions of the carcass of kids raised in range conditions and slaughtered at 8-9 or 11-12 months old. The trial was conducted in the region of Alto Camaquã and had 15 animals per group. Chemical composition of the carcass (moisture, protein, ashes, fats, and cholesterol) was determined from the shoulder, loin, and legs. Kids slaughtered younger had higher moisture and ash content in all three portions (p<0.05) when compared to older animals. Fat levels only were higher in kids slaughtered at an older age (p<0.05). Cholesterol content only on the leg, was lesser than the two other portions in younger animals (p<0.05). There were no differences observed between the three portions on the older animals. Older kids at slaughter had higher content of protein and fat but cholesterol remained unchanged. The three portions of the carcass had distinct chemical composition. Our results suggest that in range conditions the slaughter of animals should occur at 11-12 months old, resulting in meat with higher nutritional content in all portions of the carcass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]