A comparison of Nellore and Nellore-cross entire male cattle finished in a feedlot in a tropical area of Brazil with respect to carcass characteristics and meat quality after ageing either with or without 60 days of prior frozen storage.

Context: The use of crosses between Bos taurus and Bos indicus has boosted cattle production in tropical areas of Brazil, improving carcass and meat standards. However, there is little information on Canchim animals crossed with Nellore. Additionally, freezing is a preservation method frequently used by consumers, which allows meat to be preserved for a prolonged period, but little is known regarding this effect in meat frozen for 60 days from crossbred animals. Aims: The present study sought to evaluate the carcass performance and characteristics, and the effects of freezing prior to ageing on the meat of animals from different genetic groups finished in a feedlot. Methods: A total of 26 male cattle were used, consisting of Angus × Nellore (AAN), Canchim × Nellore (CAN) and Nellore (NEL), finished in feedlot. The carcasses were evaluated after slaughter. The steaks (Longissimus thoracis) were submitted to freezing for 0, 30 and 60 days before ageing, and were then aged for 1, 7 and 14 days. Key results: Consumption and performance was greater for AAN and CAN animals. The AAN and CAN crossbred cattle presented higher final liveweight, hot carcass weight, dressing-out percentage and rib eye area. Freezing did not affect the meat luminosity, and it reduced the shear force and the purge at 14 days of ageing when frozen for 30 and 60 days. Conclusions: The crossbreed between Canchim × Nellore animals is an alternative for termination in a feedlot. Meats frozen before ageing were more tender. Implications: Crossbred animals have better carcass performance and characteristics and the pre-freezing process yielded more tender meat. The Canchim is an alternative for crossing with pure Bos indicus animals. The use of breed crosses is an alternative for increasing animal production. For this purpose, breeds such as the Aberdeen Angus are already widely used, while Canchim animals present themselves as a viable alternative. Crossbred animals have better carcass characteristics and initial freezing for more than 30 days resulted in more tender meats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]