Prediction of the body composition of lambs from the composition of their non-carcass components

Abstract

Information on the chemical composition of Suffolk X Blackface lambs was collected and used to predict empty body (EB) component weights from empty body weight (EBW) and non-carcass (NC) component weights. EBW accounted proportionately for 0-94, 0-89 and 0-95 of the variation in EB crude protein, fat and energy content. A combination of NC component weights accounted proportionately for 0-94, 0-95 and 0-96 of the variation in EB crude protein, fat and energy content. EBW and a combination of NC component weights together accounted proportionately for 0-97, 0-97 and 0-98 of the variation in EB crude protein, fat and energy content. Chemical analysis of NC components is cheaper and easier than whole body analysis and provides a viable alternative to sample joint or specific gravity analysis.