Growth Performance, Carcass and Meat Traits of Autochthonous Arouquesa Weaners Raised on Traditional and Improved Feeding Systems

Abstract

Arouquesa is an autochthonous bovine breed known for its Arouquesa PDO beef labeling. There are several production systems under the definition of PDO labeling. This study aimed to compare the effect of different production systems on carcass and meat traits for the Arouquesa breed. Two trials differing in diet and weaning age were conducted. The first trial included a TF group fed the traditional way and weaned at 9 months; a TF + S1 group, equal to TF, but with a starter supplement; and finally, a S1 + S2 group that was fed with a starter and a growth supplement and weaned at 5 months. The second trial was composed of a TF + S3 group fed like the TF + S1 group but reared until 12 months with a finishing supplement, and finally, the S3 group fed like the S1 + S2 group but reared until 12 months. In the first trial, the TF + S1 and S1 + S2 groups showed higher final live weight and average daily gain. In the second trial, we observed differences in the subcutaneous fat that was higher in the S3 group. Regarding meat traits, we observed differences in exudative and cooking losses in the first trial. In general, supplementation improved meat production without affecting meat quality parameters.

Non-Invasive Biomarkers in Saliva and Eye Infrared Thermography to Assess the Stress Response of Calves during Transport

“…In this study, 20 Arouquesa breed calves with an average age of 9 months (261.8 ± 33.4 days) and a live weight of 233.4 ± 40.7 kg were used. These animals were reared in traditional housing in their production area [23]. They were kept in pens of 2 to 5 each and a minimum space of 2.5 m 2 per animal.…”

“…The Arouquesa, as an example of bovine breeds in the Centre and North of Portugal, is generally transported for slaughter, preferably at around 9 months of age, a period of greater susceptibility to suffering from stress [23]. Therefore, this study proposes to evaluate the stress response in Arouquesa calves during transportation to the slaughterhouse, using animal-based parameters, through low-invasive techniques that evaluate the changes in ocular IRT images and oxidative stress parameters of saliva.…”

Meat Quality in Katerini and Podolian Young Bulls Raised on Pasture: A Comparison between Organic Production Systems in Greek and Italian Environments

“…In recent decades, Mediterranean grasslands have received little attention from scientific research, as they are perceived as marginal lands, where grazing activity is the only viable solution. However, following correct management, grasslands can become an important feeding source for livestock and can therefore improve their overall productivity [12,13].…”