Effects of genotype and sterilization of chickens on growth rate, slaughter yield, whole poultry colour and physicochemical properties of poularde meat obtained from a hybrid breed of conservative chickens and meat roosters.

The aim of the study was to determine the effects of genotype and sterilization on growth rate, carcass and meat quality. The subject of the study included hybrids obtained by crossing Ross 308 meat roosters with hens included in the genetic resource protection program in Poland, i.e. Yellow-Legged Partridge (Ż-33), Rhode Island Red (R-11) and Sussex (S-66). 8-week-old birds of each genetic group, i.e. ♂Ross 308x ♀Ż-33, ♂Ross 308 × ♀R-11, and ♂Ross 308x ♀S-66, were equally divided into pullets (K, control) and poulardes (P, experimental group). The sterilization procedure was performed in the 9th week of life. The birds were fed ad libitum with whole-portion starter- and grower diets, and finisher mixes with 2% powdered whey addition. Beginning from the 11th week, outdoor access was provided. The raising was completed in the 18th week. The slaughter and meat quality assessment were performed based on 6 pieces from each group. It was found that poulardes obtained by crossing domestic general-purpose hen breeds with Ross 308 roosters achieved a slightly higher body mass, yet significantly higher content of pectoral muscles and deposit fat in the whole poultry, compared to pullets. Poularde whole birds were distinguished by higher colour saturation towards yellow, and pectoral muscles were lighter compared to pullets. Poularde meat was more tender and obtained better sensory evaluation results. The influence of hen genotype was noted in the case of body mass, musculature, whole poultry fat content and colour, as well as meat tenderness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]