Meat quality and wholesale cuts of Barki lambs carcass fed Azzawi date

Abstract EN

Effects of replacing 50 or 100% of corn grains in the concentrate feed mixture by Azzawi date on wholesale cuts and meat quality of Barki lambs were evaluated.

Twenty one male Barki lambs (five months old and 24.2 ± 3.0 kg average body weight) were divided into three equal groups (n=seven each).

Group 1 (G1) was fed a basal diet consisting of 50% alfalfa hay and 50% concentrate mixture and served as control.

The other two groups were fed the basal diet but 50 (G2) or 100 % (G3) of corn grains of the concentrate mixture were replaced by Azzawi date.

The experimental period lasted for 173 days and thereafter all lambs were slaughtered after 24 hrs fasting.

Carcasses were chilled at 4o C for 24 h.

Samples of eye muscle (Longsimus dorssi) were collected (rib cut 9-11) from the carcass to evaluate the physical and chemical properties of Barki lambs meat.

Results indicated that significant differences (p <0.05) among dietary groups in wholesale cuts % except shoulder and rack %, which showed no significant difference (p>0.05).

Also, results showed a significant difference (P<0.05) among dietary groups for physical components (%) of rib cut (lean meat and fat %).

Higher percentages of lean meat and lower fat percentage were observed in G2 and G3 than G1.

No significant differences were observed in physical properties (cooking loss%, shear force, water holding capacity, plasticity and color) and chemical composition of meat among dietary groups.

Significant differences (p <0.05) for the aroma, flavor, tenderness, and juiciness were observed among dietary groups.

G2 and G3 had higher score in meat acceptability than those from the control group.

In conclusion, Azzawi date could replace corn grains and hence can be successfully used in feeding small ruminants with no adverse effects on their physical, chemical and sensory characteristics of Barki lambs meat.