Sustainable sheep production and consumer preference trends: compatibilities, contradictions, and unresolved dilemmas

Complete Mitochondrial Genome for Lucilia cuprina dorsalis (Diptera: Calliphoridae) from the Northern Territory, Australia

The Australian sheep blowfly, Lucilia cuprina dorsalis, is a major sheep ectoparasite causing subcutaneous myiasis (flystrike), which can lead to reduced livestock productivity and, in severe instances, death of the affected animals. It is also a primary colonizer of carrion, an efficient pollinator, and used in maggot debridement therapy and forensic investigations. In this study, we report the complete mitochondrial (mt) genome of L. c. dorsalis from the Northern Territory (NT), Australia, where sheep are prohibited animals, unlike the rest of Australia. The mt genome is 15,943 bp in length, comprising 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs), 22 transfer RNAs (tRNAs), and a non-coding control region. The gene order of the current mt genome is consistent with the previously published L. cuprina mt genomes. Nucleotide composition revealed an AT bias, accounting for 77.5% of total mt genome nucleotides. Phylogenetic analyses of 56 species/taxa of dipterans indicated that L. c. dorsalis and L. sericata are the closest among all sibling species of the genus Lucilia, which helps to explain species evolution within the family Luciliinae. This study provides the first complete mt genome sequence for L. c. dorsalis derived from the NT, Australia to facilitate species identification and the examination of the evolutionary history of these blowflies.

Prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in Sheep and Goats in Jiangsu, China

Sheep and goats serve as crucial hosts for Cryptosporidium spp. and are primarily responsible for its transmission via the fecal-oral route. This can result in symptoms such as lamb weight loss, diarrhea, and even fatalities, leading to significant economic losses. Currently, there is a lack of scholarly research investigating the prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. infection in sheep and goats specifically within Jiangsu province. This study collected fecal samples from sheep and goats, extracted their DNA, amplified target bands using nested PCR, sequenced the DNA, constructed a phylogenetic tree, and identified the genetic genotype. In total, 3 positive samples were identified out of 398 samples. Furthermore, the gene sequences of these samples exhibited significant homology with C. xiaoi in GenBank. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the Cryptosporidium spp. parasites under investigation are phylogenetically related to C. xiaoi. Conducting epidemiological investigations and accurately identifying the species of Cryptosporidium spp. is of utmost importance not only for the mutton sheep farming industry in Jiangsu but also for the proactive safeguarding of human health.

Understanding Circular RNAs in Health, Welfare, and Productive Traits of Cattle, Goats, and Sheep

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are unique noncoding RNA molecules, notable for their covalent closed-loop structures, which play a crucial role in regulating gene expression across a variety of biological processes. This review comprehensively synthesizes the existing knowledge of circRNAs in three key livestock species: Bos taurus (cattle), Ovis aries (sheep), and Capra hircus (goats). It focuses on their functional importance and emerging potential as biomarkers for disease detection, stress response, and overall physiological health. Specifically, it delves into the expression and functionality of circRNAs in these species, paying special attention to traits critical to livestock productivity such as milk production, meat quality, muscle development, wool production, immune responses, etc. We also address the current challenges faced in circRNA research, including the need for standardized methodologies and broader studies. By providing insights into the molecular mechanisms regulated by circRNAs, this review underscores their scientific and economic relevance in the livestock industry. The potential of circRNAs to improve animal health management and the quality of animal-derived products aligns with growing consumer concerns for animal welfare and sustainability. Thus, this paper aims to guide future research directions while supporting the development of innovative strategies in livestock management and breeding.

Seroprevalence and potential risk factors of brucellosis in sheep from America, Africa and Asia regions: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Brucellosis, a neglected and global zoonotic disease, infect a variety of mammals, among which sheep are one of the main hosts. This disease results in huge economic losses and is a widespread concern around the world.

RESULT

Based on the selection criteria, 40 articles from 2010 to 2021 of five databases (CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, PubMed and Science Direct) reported in America, Africa and Asia were included. The data showed that during this period, the overall seroprevalence of sheep brucellosis on these three continents was 6.2%. At the regional level, sheep brucellosis had the highest seroprevalence (8.5%) in Africa and the lowest seroprevalence (1.9%) in the Americas. With regard to the age of the sheep, the seroprevalence was significantly higher in adult sheep (15.5%) than in lambs (8.6%). Further, the seroprevalence was significantly higher in sheep that had abortion (44.3%) than in pregnant (13.0%) and non-pregnant sheep (9.5%). With regard to herd size, herds with >20 sheep (35.4%) had a significantly higher seroprevalence than herds with <20 sheep (16.8%). In terms of farming and grazing mode, free-range rearing (8.4%) was associated with a significantly higher seroprevalence than intensive farming (2.8%), and mixed grazing (37.0%) was associated with a significantly higher seroprevalence than single grazing (5.7%).

CONCLUSION

Sheep brucellosis is widely distributed in sheep-rearing regions of America, Africa and Asia, and sheep are susceptible to brucellosis by themselves or from other infectious sources. Therefore, timely monitoring of ovine brucellosis and improving farming and grazing patterns are critical to reducing the prevalence of brucellosis.

Optimization Strategies to Adapt Sheep Breeding Programs to Pasture-Based Production Environments: A Simulation Study

Strong differences between the selection (indoor fattening) and production environment (pasture fattening) are expected to reduce genetic gain due to possible genotype-by-environment interactions (G × E). To investigate how to adapt a sheep breeding program to a pasture-based production environment, different scenarios were simulated for the German Merino sheep population using the R package Modular Breeding Program Simulator (MoBPS). All relevant selection steps and a multivariate pedigree-based BLUP breeding value estimation were included. The reference scenario included progeny testing at stations to evaluate the fattening performance and carcass traits. It was compared to alternative scenarios varying in the progeny testing scheme for fattening traits (station and/or field). The total merit index (TMI) set pasture-based lamb fattening as a breeding goal, i.e., field fattening traits were weighted. Regarding the TMI, the scenario with progeny testing both in the field and on station led to a significant increase in genetic gain compared with the reference scenario. Regarding fattening traits, genetic gain was significantly increased in the alternative scenarios in which field progeny testing was performed. In the presence of G × E, the study showed that the selection environment should match the production environment (pasture) to avoid losses in genetic gain. As most breeding goals also contain traits not recordable in field testing, the combination of both field and station testing is required to maximize genetic gain.

Evaluation of trace elements in forages and their effect on gastrointestinal parasite burden in grazing sheep

This study was designed to evaluate the trace elements (minerals) in forages fed to sheep and their effect on gastrointestinal parasite burdens. The ultimate objective was to determine the correlation between the burden of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites and the level of trace minerals in sheep serum as a result of the forages they grazed on. A total of 384 faecal samples were collected from sheep in each of the districts (Sialkot and Multan) and examined quantitatively using the McMaster technique. Serum collected from them and plants were pre-treated, and spectrophotometry was used to determine the concentration of trace minerals (Mn, Co, Cu, and Zn). The level of these trace elements differed significantly (P < 0.05) in forages from both districts. In the district of Sialkot, the highest concentrations (mg/Kg) of Zn (38.53 ± 0.16) were found in Cichorium intybus, Cu (41.57 ± 0.07) in Cynodon dactylon, Mn (39.61 ± 0.05) in Parthenium hysterophorus, and Co (1.42 ± 0.03) in Coronopus didymus. In the district of Multan, the highest concentrations (mg/Kg) of Zn (39.43 ± 0.46) were found in Cichorium intybus, Cu (25.76 ± 0.36) in Cynodon dactylon, Mn (34.29 ± 0.53) in Launaea nudicaulis, and Co (1.74 ± 0.08) in Brachiaria raptens. The prevalence of GI parasites in sheep populations in district Sialkot was 34%, while in district Multan, it was 32%. In tehsil Sialkot of district Sialkot, Zn and Cu were significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with eggs per gram (EPG) of faeces, while in tehsil Multan City of district Multan, only Cu was significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with EPG. The potential mechanism behind the role of trace minerals in lowering the burdens of GI parasites requires more investigation. It is recommended that plants with high content of trace minerals should be utilized as part of comprehensive preventive and control strategies against GI parasitism in ruminant animals like sheep.

Exploring Consumer Behavior and Preferences in Welfare-Friendly Pork Breeding: A Multivariate Analysis

This study investigates consumer behavior and interest in "welfare-friendly" forms of pork production, considering the growing presence of animal welfare-focused breeding practices. The aim is to outline the typical profile of pork consumers and identify the key attributes influencing their purchasing decisions. A survey was conducted on a sample of 286 individuals after excluding those who only consumed beef and/or poultry or identified as vegetarians/vegans. Regression coefficients (b), 95% Confidence Intervals (95% C.I.), and p-values were reported for univariate and multivariate models. Statistical significance was determined at p < 0.05 (indicated in bold). The findings indicate that younger participants show greater sensitivity towards consuming meat raised using welfare-friendly methods, raising considerations about the age composition of the sample. The research's originality lies in evaluating consumer interest in pork raised with animal welfare-respecting techniques. The use of appropriate statistical tools, such as multivariate and multilayer models, allows effective solutions for multidimensional hypothesis testing problems in non-parametric permutation inference.

Space allowance impacts behavior, productivity, reproductivity and immunity of sheep-a review

Sheep is an important producing animal in subtropical and arid regions; however, sheep farming practices and welfare standards are still not well established. To move to either intensive or intensive sheep production, stocking density (animal/area, SD) is a significant factor that influencing the welfare and productivity of animals. However, there are discrepancies in space allowance standards for wool, meat, and dairy sheep at different stages. Thus, this review article sheds light on (1) the geographical distribution of wool, meat-type, and dairy sheep populations; (2) the effects of interaction among space allowances, housing systems, and group size on the social, feeding, and aggressive behaviors and human-sheep contact; (3) the effects of space allowance on wool, growth performance, and milk production of sheep; (4) the relationship between space allowance and reproductive performance; (5) the effects of stocking rate on immunity; and (6) suggestions to mitigate the stress and deleterious influences of SD on the productivity of sheep. In conclusion, the larger space allowance with access to an outdoor yard can improve social and feeding behaviors, meat and milk yield, and wool quality. Moreover, ewes are more sensitive to SD, so they should receive an adequate space allowance at each stage. The changes in behavioral responses of each sheep breed refer to their different requirements. Therefore, there is a need to determine the impact of housing aspects, especially space allowance and enrichment tools on the productive performance and welfare indices of sheep for implementing welfare-economic standards for sheep production.

Sustainable Husbandry?-A Comparative LCA of Three Lamb Breeding Systems in Turkey

The agricultural sector has historically been the forefront economic sector in Turkey and is crucial for the rural sustainability and the pastures that are critical for biodiversity. However, inadequate policies and factors such as climate change and malpractices result in brittle pastures, rural-urban migration, and a declining agricultural sector. Also, pastures have been left without function and appropriated to other land uses such as quarries, energy power plants, and mines. Although the husbandry sector produces significant greenhouse gas emissions, pastures have a significant capacity of CO2 sequestration. In this study, Life cycle assessment (LCA) is applied to quantify the advantages and disadvantages of the transition between extensive and intensive production. The methodology presents a holistic analysis of the several impact categories and amounts of relevant products, services, and resource emissions along their life cycles. In order to assess the environmental effects of the lamb meat production, three sheep breeding systems in Turkey are evaluated. The study aims to promote a sustainable use of natural resources/assets without compromising the quality, competitiveness, or animal welfare and obtain recommendations for the future husbandry systems and rural development in Turkey. As an overall result, it can be stated that the intensification of sheep farming can lead to a decrease of greenhouse gas emissions per kg of meat. However, extensive sheep farming shows less impacts on soil acidification or eutrophication and can even be beneficial for erosion resistance or biodiversity if properly managed.

Ovarian Response and Fertility after Short-Term Progestagen/eCG Treatments Are Compromised in Nulliparous Sheep during Non-Breeding Season

The objective of this investigation was to determine the ovarian response, fertility, and prolificacy of nulliparous sheep when compared to multiparous sheep after a short-term (7 days) CIDR/eCG treatment which was administered during the non-breeding season. All the multiparous sheep, whereas only 54% of the nulliparous ewes, showed signs of estrus. However, 81.8% of the multiparous sheep and 100% of the nulliparous ewes ovulated. Fertility was also low after short-term progesterone treatments during the anestrous season in maiden sheep (30.8 vs. 72.7% in multiparous ewes). Such results indicate significant differences in the response to CIDR/eCG protocols for induction and synchronization of estrus and ovulation between nulliparous and multiparous sheep during the non-breeding season.

A Comparative Study on Microbiological and Chemical Characteristics of Small Ruminant Carcasses from Abattoirs in Greece

Meat quality dictates consumer preferences with hygiene forming a key component, especially in meat types with declining popularity, such as sheep and goat meat. Aiming to increase the marketability of sheep and goat meat, we examined 370 sheep and goat carcasses from two abattoirs in Greece. Tests included enumeration of the total mesophilic viable count, total psychrophilic viable count and coliform count, and detection of Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes and presumptive ESBL Escherichia coli. Moreover, designated samples of meat were used to measure pH, moisture, total fat and protein content. Goat carcasses had significantly higher microbial counts compared to sheep carcasses. Lamb and kid carcasses had larger TMVC, TPVC and coliform counts compared to carcasses from adult animals. One strain of L. monocytogenes (0.8%), typed as serovar 1/2a (3a), was isolated from one adult sheep carcass. Twelve strains of ESBL Escherichia coli (25%) were isolated; there were not any strains of Salmonella spp. The average values of pH, moisture, total fat and total protein were 5.83%, 67.76%, 7.21% and 21.31%, respectively, for sheep carcasses and 5.70%, 68.2%, 5.69% and 24.10%, respectively, for goat carcasses. The results showed a small deviation in assessed parameters, implying the uniformity of the conditions concerning rearing and slaughtering.

Identification of differentially expressed long noncoding RNAs in the ovarian tissue of ewes Shal and Sangsari using RNA-seq

Background

The ovary has an important role in reproductive function. Animal reproduction is dominated by numerous coding genes and noncoding elements. Although long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) are important in biological activity, little is known about their role in the ovary and fertility.

Methods

Three adult Shal ewes and three adult Sangsari ewes were used in this investigation. LncRNAs in ovarian tissue from two breeds were identified using bioinformatics analyses, and then target genes of LncRNAs were discovered. Target genes were annotated using the DAVID database, and their interactions were examined using the STRING database and Cytoscape software. The expression levels of seven LncRNAs with their target genes were assessed by real‐time PCR to confirm the RNA‐seq.

Results

Among all the identified LncRNAs, 124 LncRNAs were detected with different expression levels between the two breeds (FDR < 0.05). According to the DAVID database, target genes were discovered to be engaged in one biological process, one cellular component, and 21 KEGG pathways (FDR < 0.05). The PES1, RPS9, EF‐1, Plectin, SURF6, CYC1, PRKACA MAPK1, ITGB2 and BRD2 genes were some of the most crucial target genes (hub genes) in the ovary.

Conclusion

These results could pave the way for future efforts to address sheep prolificacy barriers.

Distribution and Difference of Gastrointestinal Flora in Sheep with Different Body Mass Index

Fat deposition is the key factor affecting the efficiency of animal husbandry production. There are many factors affecting fat deposition, in which the gastrointestinal microbiota plays an important role. Therefore, the body mass index (BMI) was introduced into the evaluation of sheep fat deposition, and the different microbiota and functional pathways of the sheep gastrointestinal tract in different BMI groups were analyzed. We selected 5% of individuals with the highest and lowest BMI from a feed test population (357 in whole group). Microorganisms in 10 sites of the gastrointestinal tract in 36 individuals (18 in each group) were evaluated by 16S rRNA V3−V4 region sequencing. There were differences (p < 0.05) in fat deposition traits between different BMI groups. In the 10 parts of the gastrointestinal tract, the diversity and richness of cecal microflora in the high-BMI group were higher than those in low-BMI Hu sheep (p < 0.05). Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) showed that there was separation of the cecum between groups, and there were differences in the cecal microbial community. Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) showed that most biomarkers were in the cecum. On the basis of an indepth study of cecal microorganisms, 26 different bacterial genera were obtained (p < 0.05). Correlation analysis between them and the characteristics of fat deposition in sheep showed that Colidextribacter, Alloprevotella, and Succenivibrio were positively correlated with fat deposition, while Lachnospiraceae_ND3007_Group was negatively correlated (p < 0.05). The above results show that the cecum may be an important part leading to the difference of BMI in sheep, and its microorganisms may affect the level of fat deposition.

Metabonomic identification of serum biomarkers related to heat stress tolerance of sheep

Heat stress is considered as a limiting factor for sheep production; it is necessary to screen for sheep breeds with heat tolerance. This study was to compare the serum metabolomes of Hu sheep and Dorper sheep and identify potential biomarkers related to heat stress. The results revealed that the respiratory rate, heart rate, and rectal temperature of Dorper sheep were significantly higher than those of Hu sheep. Compared to Dorper sheep, the serum activities of total antioxidant capacity and glutathione peroxidase in Hu sheep were significantly higher, while the concentration of malondialdehyde was lower. Metabolomics analysis identified 107 differential serum metabolites. The pathways enriched from the altered serum metabolites between the two breeds were mainly involved in protein metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, and lipid metabolism. The levels of antioxidant- and energy-related metabolites were higher in the serum of Hu sheep than that of Dorper sheep; however, the levels of lipid catabolism- and inflammation-related were higher in the serum of Dorper sheep. The results indicate that Hu sheep had better heat stress resistance capability than Dorper sheep. Moreover, high levels of metabolites in the serum of Hu sheep are potential biomarkers for heat stress tolerance, including l-methionine, s-adenosylmethionine, and nicotinuric acid.

Productive and reproductive consequences of crossbreeding Dohne Merino with Corriedale in Uruguayan sheep production systems

Context For extensive production systems, crossbreeding may be a tool that can be used to achieve production of quality wool and meat to suit market specifications. Aims To evaluate two levels of crossbreeding of Dohne Merino (DM) sires with Corriedale (C) ewes on productive and reproductive traits of the crossbreed progeny in comparison with purebred C progeny. Methods Two studies using three genotypes – 100% C (100C), 50% DM×50% C (50DM) and 75% DM×25% C (75DM) – were carried out. In Study 1, growth, wool production and nematode resistance were evaluated (n= 1652). In wethers, carcass weight, subcutaneous tissue thickness, weight of high value cuts, meat shear force and fresh meat colour were also evaluated. Before first mating, the presence and number of corpus luteum was recorded to evaluate puberty and ovulation rate, respectively, in 380 18-month-old hoggets. In Study 2, fertility, prolificacy and lambing percentages were measured in 382 ewes. Key results Increasing the percentage of DM was associated with heavier animals (P&lt;0.01). The heaviest fleece weight, broadest fibre diameter and longest staple length were recorded in 100C, and the lowest in 75DM (P&lt;0.001). Crossbred animals had heavier carcasses, boneless legs and French racks than 100C (P&lt;0.001). Subcutaneous tissue thickness GR adjusted for carcass weight was thicker in 100C, intermediate in 50DM and lowest in 75DM (P&lt;0.001). Meat quality and nematode resistance traits were not affected by crossbreeding. Genotype affected the proportion of hoggets cyclic at first mating (P&lt;0.05), being greater in 50DM than in C hoggets, although both proportions were similar to 75DM. Fertility was not affected (P&gt;0.05) by genotype, whereas prolificacy and lambing percentage were greater in the animals of the 50DM vs 100C and 75DM (P&lt;0.05). Conclusions Wool quality, animal growth, carcass weight and composition, and onset of puberty were improved by crossbreeding C ewes with DM sires. A reduction in wool production, and minor influences on prolificacy and lambing percentage were detected. Implications Crossbreeding C ewes with DM sires can benefit wool and meat production in comparison with purebred C production systems.

Detecting Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in MEF2B and UCP3 and Elucidating Their Association with Sheep Growth Traits

Herein we detected single nucleotide polymorphisms in MEF2B and UCP3 by DNA sequencing and the KASPar technology and analyzed their association with sheep growth traits. Two synonymous mutations, g.1826 C > T and g.10266 G > C, were detected, respectively, and they were found to be significantly associated with sheep growth traits (p < 0.05). In case of MEF2B g.1826 C > T, the average body weight and chest and cannon circumference of sheep with the CC genotype were significantly higher than those of sheep with the CT and TT genotypes (p < 0.05). Moreover, in case of UCP3 g.10266 G > C, the average body weight and chest and cannon circumference of sheep with the GG genotype were significantly higher than those of sheep with the GC and CC genotypes (p < 0.05). Moreover, the average body weight of sheep with the CC/GG genotype was higher compared with those of other genotype combinations. We also assessed MEF2B and UCP3 expression in different sheep tissues, confirming their expression in all examined tissues. To summarize, we believe that the polymorphisms identified in MEF2B and UCP3 can serve as molecular markers for sheep growth traits.

Efficiency Analysis as a Tool for Revealing Best Practices and Innovations: The Case of the Sheep Meat Sector in Europe

Simple Summary

The European sheep meat sector faces technical, market and financial challenges that threaten its economic performance and overall sustainability. At the same time, the sector is characterized by poor and slow adoption of innovations that could help towards facing these challenges. In this study, the technical efficiency of extensive, semi-intensive and intensive sheep meat farms in France, Spain and the UK was explored to reveal the profile of the most efficient ones and identify the best practices and innovations that these farms apply. The most efficient sheep meat farms reared large flocks, used available infrastructure at full capacity and managed human labor in a rational way. These best farms emphasized feeding and grazing innovations, marketing strategies, breeding programs and use of digital technologies. The uptake of such practices and innovations by farms of similar production systems could help to increase the productivity and economic performance of the sheep meat sector.

Abstract

The slow adoption of innovations is a key challenge that the European sheep sector faces for its sustainability. The future of the sector lies on the adoption of best practices, modern technologies and innovations that can improve its resilience and mitigate its dependence on public support. In this study, the concept of technical efficiency was used to reveal the most efficient sheep meat farms and to identify the best practices and farm innovations that could potentially be adopted by other farms of similar production systems. Data Envelopment Analysis was applied to farm accounting data from 458 sheep meat farms of intensive, semi-intensive and extensive systems from France, Spain and the UK, and the structural and economic characteristics of the most efficient farms were analyzed. These best farmers were indicated through a survey, which was conducted within the Innovation for Sustainable Sheep and Goat Production in the Europe (iSAGE) Horizon 2020 project, the management and production practices and innovations that improve their economic performance and make them better than their peers.

Review: Factors affecting sheep carcass and meat quality attributes

Sheep meat comes from a wide variety of farming systems utilising outdoor extensive to indoor intensive with animals of various ages at slaughter. In Europe, slaughter may occur from 4 weeks of age in suckling light lambs to adult ages. More than any other animal species used for meat production, there are strong country-specific preferences for sheep meat quality linked to production system characteristics such as dairy or grassland-based systems. This article critically reviews the current state of knowledge on factors affecting sheep carcass and meat quality. Quality has been broken down into six core attributes: commercial, organoleptic, nutritional, technological, safety and image, the latter covering aspects of ethics, culture and environment associated with the way the meat is produced and its origin, which are particularly valued in the many quality labels in Europe. The quality of meat is built but can also deteriorate along the continuum from the conception of the animal to the consumer. Our review pinpoints critical periods, such as the gestation and the preslaughter and slaughter periods, and key factors, such as the animal diet, via its direct effect on the fatty acid profile, the antioxidant and volatile content, and indirect effects mediated via the age of the animal. It also pinpoints methodological difficulties in predicting organoleptic attributes, particularly odour and flavour. Potential antagonisms between different dimensions of quality are highlighted. For example, pasture-feeding has positive effects on the image and nutritional attributes (through its effect on the fatty acid profile of meat lipids), but it increases the risk of off-odours and off-flavours for sensitive consumersand the variability in meat quality linked to variability of animal age at slaughter. The orientation towards more agro-ecological, low-input farming systems may therefore present benefits for the image and nutritional properties of the meat, but also risks for the commercial (insufficient carcass fatness, feed deficiencies at key periods of the production cycle, irregularity in supply), organoleptic (stronger flavour and darker colour of the meat) and variability of sheep carcass and meat quality. Furthermore, the genetic selection for lean meat yield has been effective in producing carcasses that yield more meat, but at a penalty to the intramuscular fat content and eating quality of the meat, and making it more difficult to finish lambs on grass. Various tools to assess and predict quality are in development to better consider the various dimensions of quality in consumer information, payment to farmers and genetic selection.

Growth performance, carcass traits and meat quality of lambs fed increasing level of Macadamia nut cake

A total of 40 lambs were divided into four different treatments according to the inclusion level of the macadamia nut cake: C-control (0%), M1 (6.5%), M2 (12%) and M3 (20%). Feed was provided twice a day; animal weighing along with body condition scoring occurred within a 14-day interval. The lambs were slaughtered at the end of the performance test. Analysis of variance was performed through the Mixed procedure of the SAS, as well as linear and quadratic regression analysis. The groups presented differences between the treatments (P <0.05) for dry matter intake (DMI), ethereal extract intake (EEI), consumption in relation to live weight percentage and feed conversion ratio (FCR). The lowest mean DMI was obtained by the animals that received the M2 and differed from the C treatment, whose average was the highest. The EEI was highest for the M3 group and the FCR was also better for this group. There was a linear effect for EEI and FCR, and quadratic for crude protein intake. There was no effect for carcass characteristics, and only initial pH had a decreasing linear effect. The macadamia nut cake was effective in promoting the performance of the animals, since there was an improvement in feed conversion.

Effect of Different Finishing Strategies and Steer Temperament on Animal Welfare and Instrumental Meat Tenderness

Simple Summary

Animal welfare is one of the most important quality attributes for meat consumers and a potential tool for differentiation in farms where husbandry is based on extensive rearing systems and high animal welfare standards. However, there is not enough contextualized scientific information in relation to these systems and some others that are emerging, with a higher level of intensification. In this experiment, we compared animal welfare between different fattening systems, through the combination of several indicators regarding physiology, behavior, health, productivity, and meat tenderness. Animal temperament, as well as its impact on welfare and meat quality, was also considered. From our results, we concluded that finishing strategies based on pastures that ensure an adequate level of nutrition and health would be more appropriate for fattening animals, from both the animal welfare and the meat quality perspectives. Intensification up to certain levels (pasture plus supplement), without deprivation of certain behaviors and with constant monitoring of health, should provide productive benefits without compromising animal welfare. In confined systems with 9 m² per animal, the challenge is greater in relation to animal welfare because of restrictions of important behaviors and greater risks of dietary diseases. It is considered that, if some conditions of the confined system are improved, such as the space available per animal and the strict prevention and constant monitoring of diet disorders, it could be a valid alternative for fattening cattle. Temperament could be improved through good handling, with positive impacts on welfare, productivity, and meat tenderness.

Abstract

The aim of this experiment was to evaluate the effect of different fattening systems from pasture to concentrate and temperament on animal welfare (AW) and meat quality (MQ). Eighty-four Hereford steers were randomly assigned to the following groups: T1, pasture (4% of animal live weight: LW); T2, pasture (3% LW) plus concentrate (0.6% LW); T3, pasture (3% LW) plus concentrate (1.2% LW); T4, an ad libitum concentrate treatment. Temperament was assessed by three individual tests: crush score, flight time, and exit speed, building a multicriterial temperament index (TIndex). The flight zone was also registered for each treatment. AW was assessed through the integration of indicators of productivity, physiology, and behavior, as well as by monitoring the health status within each treatment. Shear force was registered for MQ. Differences in average daily gain were due to the different energetic composition of the diets (T4 > T3 > T2 > T1) and were not attributable to animal welfare problems. Animals from T4 had the higher average daily gain (ADG) but welfare was negatively affected, being evident through physiological indicators, the restriction or deprivation of relevant behaviors, diet-related diseases, and mortality. T1, T2, and T3 did not appear to compromise animal welfare. However, strict preventive measures and monitoring should be taken during the habituation process and when using any new diet that includes concentrate, because of possible dietary diseases. Shear force values were lower in T1. None of the animals in our experiment were excitable or aggressive, but there was a positive response to handling in all treatments. In addition, regardless of diet, calmer animals had higher average daily gain and lower shear force values; thus, temperament appears to have a significant influence on productivity and meat quality.

Measuring the Economic Performance of Small Ruminant Farms Using Balanced Scorecard and Importance-Performance Analysis: A European Case Study

Given the increasing complexity of the agro-food sector, the analysis of financial performance alone may not be sufficient to assess the economic sustainability of farmers. This paper presents a practical method to measure the performance of farm businesses by combining the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) theoretical framework and Importance–Performance Analysis (IPA). The proposed model of Business Performance Indicators (BPI) measurement allows identification and validation of the indicators that consistently measure the latent dimension of the BSC framework while allowing identification Buin of the BPI areas where farm businesses need to concentrate their efforts to assure economic sustainability. The method was applied to small ruminant farm businesses across Europe through visits and interviews. The case study application showed that the model could help measure the performance of small farms while allowing detection of the areas of fragility and intervention. The case study results showed that finance and internal business management were the most relevant farmers’ weaknesses, alongside low priority given to innovation. In conclusion, to prevent the potential long-term decline of the sector, the study provided evidence for policy changes to support the farmers’ innovation potential and a higher level of integration in the supply chain.

Dentition can predict maturity in young Merino sheep

Context A unique population of Merino sheep recorded for a range of production and reproduction traits presented an opportunity to calculate sire variation in dentition which may indicate maturity and influence marketing and selection decisions. A change in the definition of ‘lamb’ in the Australian sheep industry warranted an investigation of the relationship between production, reproduction and dentition. Aims To assess the variation in timing of dentition changes in Merino sheep and determine whether there are associations with key production and reproduction traits. Methods A population of 2150 pedigree-recorded Merino sheep were studied to analyse the sire variation in progeny for a range of dentition changes and production and reproduction traits. Dentition phenotypes included the age animals started to lose the deciduous lamb teeth, the age when one permanent incisor was in wear and the amount of time between these two events. Production records included bodyweight, fat and muscle traits. Reproduction records from the female progeny included the outcome of pregnancy scanning after the first joining opportunity. Sire variation for the age dentition changed was analysed. The effect of progeny age at hogget categorisation on production and reproduction was analysed. Key results Progeny that were heavier, fatter and with higher muscle measurements matured earlier. Female progeny were more likely to be pregnant if classed as hoggets earlier in life. Conclusions Dentition records provided useful indicators of maturity in Merino sheep in this study and can be used to inform decisions regarding the timing of marketing options and the likelihood of success when assessing female progeny for suitability to join at ~18 months of age. Implications Merino sires can exhibit a wide range of variation with respect to the age at which their progeny will mature, as indicated by their dentition. If animals are heavier at an earlier age, they are more likely to mature earlier, which has to be considered when planning nutritional requirements for growing out young male progeny, and females could be more successful as young breeders. Dentition is a useful tool to indicate maturity in young Merino sheep.

A multi-stakeholder participatory study identifies the priorities for the sustainability of the small ruminants farming sector in Europe

The European small ruminants (i.e. sheep and goats) farming sector (ESRS) provides economic, social and environmental benefits to society, but is also one of the most vulnerable livestock sectors in Europe. This sector has diverse livestock species, breeds, production systems and products, which makes difficult to have a clear vision of its challenges through using conventional analyses. A multi-stakeholder and multi-step approach, including 90 surveys, was used to identify and assess the main challenges for the sustainability of the ESRS to prioritize actions. These challenges and actions were identified by ESRS experts including farmers, cooperatives, breeding associations, advisers and researchers of six EU countries and Turkey. From the 30 identified challenges, the most relevant were economy-related challenges such as 'uncertainty of meat and milk prices', 'volatility of commodity prices', 'low farm income', 'high subsidy dependency' and 'uncertainty in future changes in subsidies' resulting in 'a sector not attractive to young farmers'. Most of these challenges were beyond the farmer's control and perceived as difficult to address. Challenges were prioritized using an index, calculated by multiplying the relevance and the feasibility to address measures. The identified challenges had a similar priority index across the whole sector with small differences across livestock species (sheep vs goats), type of products (meat vs dairy) and intensification levels (intensive vs semi-intensive vs extensive). The priorities were different, however, between socio-geographical regions (Southern vs Central Europe). Some of the top prioritized challenges were linked to aspects related to the production systems ('low promotion of local breeds' and 'slow adaptability of high producing breeds') and market practices ('unfair trade/lack of traceability'). The majority of the priority challenges, however, were associated with a deficient knowledge or training at farm level ('poor business management training', 'lack of professionalization', 'slow adoption of innovations'), academia ('researchers do not address real problems') and society as a whole ('low consumer education in local products', 'low social knowledge about farming', 'poor recognition of farming public services'). Thus, improved collaboration among the different stakeholders across the food chain with special implication of farmers, associations of producers, academia and governments is needed to facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity building. These actions can contribute to make ESRS economically more sustainable and to adapt the production systems and policy to the current and future societal needs in a more region-contextualized framework.

Physiological parameter values for physiologically based pharmacokinetic models in food-producing animals. Part III: Sheep and goat

This report is the third in a series of studies that aimed to compile physiological parameters related to develop physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models for drugs and environmental chemicals in food‐producing animals including swine and cattle (Part I), chickens and turkeys (Part II), and finally sheep and goats (the focus of this manuscript). Literature searches were conducted in multiple databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and ProQuest), with data on relevant parameters including body weight, relative organ weight (% of body weight), cardiac output, relative organ blood flow (% of cardiac output), residual blood volume (% of organ weight), and hematocrit reviewed and statistically summarized. The mean and standard deviation of each parameter are presented in tables. Equations describing the growth curves of sheep and goats are presented in figures. When data are sufficient, parameter values are reported for different ages or production classes of sheep, including fetal sheep, lambs, and market‐age sheep (mature sheep). These data provide a reference database for developing standardized PBPK models to predict drug withdrawal intervals in sheep and goats, and also provide a basis for extrapolating PBPK models from major species such as cattle to minor species such as sheep and goats.

Effects of dietary energy content and source using by-products on carcass and meat quality traits of cull ewes

In cull ewes, energy supply by time short periods can affect growth, carcass traits, and meat quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of biscuit bran (BB) and cashew nut bran (CNB) in diets with different total digestible nutrient (TDN) content on animal performance and carcass and meat traits of cull ewes. Twenty Morada Nova cull ewes, with the initial BW of 30.1 ± 3.56 kg, and three years of age were distributed in a completely randomized design into factorial scheme 2 × 2, with two energy sources (BB and CNB) × two levels of TDN. All diets were isoproteic with variations in TDN content increased by 10% (TDN10) and 25% (TDN25) above the recommended requirement for the study category, which was 66.0% TDN. The experimental period lasted 56 days, in which daily intake in relation to metabolic weight and weight performance of the animals was determined. The hot carcass, the cold carcass, commercial cuts, loin eye area, and subcutaneous fat thickness were measured, obtained, or calculated. A sample of the Longissimus lumborum (LL) muscle was used by determination of physical-chemical composition, sensory, and fatty acid (FA) profile analysis. The ANOVA was performed to access the effect of diet and energy level on the characteristics studied, and means were compared by the Turkey and Kruskal Wallis tests at 5% of probability. A higher daily gain weight was observed from TDN25 (P = 0.006). Among by-products, higher nutrient intakes were observed in animals fed with BB diets (P < 0.01), except for crude protein. The same patterns have been observed for live weight, reconstituted half-carcass, higher yield in fat thickness, and internal carcass length. Cashew nut bran produced darker colored meat (P = 0.017) and higher cooking weight loss (P = 0.008). Higher lipid content was observed in animals submitted to diets with CNB and TDN25 (P = 0.001). The internal length of the carcass was higher in animals fed with BB (P = 0.041). All diets did not effect on sensory characteristics (P > 0.05). Total digestible nutrient in 25% above recommended promotes higher weight gain and meat with higher lipid content and less weight loss by cooling. The inclusion of BB, compared to CNB, provides a higher weight of carcasses and better conformation, in addition to lower total lipid content with higher proportion for monounsaturated FAs in meat, providing more attractive features for the consumer market.

Relating Lying Behavior With Climate, Body Condition Score, and Milk Production in Dairy Cows

Attention on animal behavior and welfare has been increasing. Scientific knowledge about the effect of behavior and welfare on animals' production augmented and made clear the need of improving their living conditions. Among the variables to monitor in dairy cattle farming, lying time represents a signal for health and welfare status as well as for milk production. The aim of this study is to identify the relationship among the lying behavior of dairy cows and milk production, body condition score (BCS), weather variables, and the temperature–humidity index (THI) in the barn from a dairy farm located in Northern Italy. One-year data were collected on this farm with sensors that allowed monitoring of the environmental conditions in the barn and the activity of primiparous lactating cows. Principal components analysis (PCA), factor analysis (FA), generalized linear model select (GLMSelect), and logistic analysis (LA) were carried out to get the relationships among variables. Among the main results, it emerges that the effect of weather parameters is quite restrained, except for THI > 70, which negatively affects the lying time. In addition, the most productive cows are found to lie down more than the less productive ones, and the parameters of milk production, lying time, and BCS are found to be linked by a similar trend.

Review of Huang-huai sheep, a new multiparous mutton sheep breed first identified in China

Huang-huai sheep are a new multiparous mutton sheep breed that has been cultivated by domestic scientific research institutes, governments, and sheep farms in China. Huang-huai sheep were bred using Dorper sheep as a sire and Small-tailed Han sheep as a dam. The breeding of Huang-huai sheep started in 2003, and three stages have been carried out: crossbreeding innovation, fixation in a two-way-crossbred closed flock, and herd propagation. A pilot test of Huang-huai sheep was conducted on 6 sheep farms from 2017 to 2018, and hereditary properties and production performance were evaluated in 2019. Huang-huai sheep were identified on site by the National Livestock and Poultry Resources Committee of China in December 2019 and approved as a new multiparous mutton sheep breed in China. The genetic distance showed that Huang-huai sheep are most closely related to Dorper sheep, Luxi black-headed sheep, and Small-tailed Han sheep, but the genetic distances are subspecies (0.02–0.20) each other. The body weights of adult Huang-huai sheep are 98.1 ± 5.2 kg (♂) and 71.7 ± 3.5 kg (♀), and those of 6-month-old Huang-huai sheep are 58.50 ± 6.55 kg (♂) and 52.45 ± 5.67 kg (♀). The slaughter rates of 6-month-old sheep are 56.02 ± 1.25% (♂) and 53.19 ± 1.19% (♀). The estrus cycle of Huang-huai sheep is 19.32 ± 2.8 days, the first estrus cycle occurs at 168 ± 12 days, the annual lambing rate of ewes is 252.82% ± 10.69%, the survival rate of lambs is 95.79 ± 0.95%, and the number of weaned lambs per ewe per year is 2.38 ± 0.14. The growth performance, carcass quality, and reproductive performance of Huang-huai sheep have been improved, resulting in considerable economic and social benefits and broader market prospects. This breed represents a new multiparous mutton sheep breed adapted for industrial sheep farms in China.

Consumer liking of M. longissimus lumborum from New Zealand pasture-finished lamb is influenced by intramuscular fat

Palatability of meat is known to be affected by intramuscular fat (IMF), but the effect in relatively low-fat New Zealand lamb is unknown. This study evaluated the eating quality of 108 loins (M. longissimus lumborum) from a single flock of ewe-lambs. Loins ranged from 1.09-5.68% IMF and were stratified into 6 groups: 1.65, 2.12, 2.65, 3.20, 3.58 and 4.40%. Consumers' (n = 165) overall liking of lamb increased significantly at around 3% IMF, achieving maximum scores at 4% IMF. One consumer cluster (n = 111) showed a linear increase in overall liking with increasing IMF%, regarded as 'IMF lovers: the more the better', while a second cluster (n = 54) preferred 2.5-3.5% IMF, described as 'IMF optimizers: just the right amount'. IMF% was modestly correlated (~ + 0.25) with all sensory attributes except juiciness. Liking scores were modestly correlated with monounsaturated (~ + 0.25) and polyunsaturated (~ - 0.20) fatty acids. Results suggest aiming for IMF% levels in New Zealand lamb beyond 3% to maximize eating quality for premium markets in particular.

A New Approach to LCA Evaluation of Lamb Meat Production in Two Different Breeding Systems in Northern Italy

Lamb meat production provides vital landscape-management and ecosystem services; however, ruminant farming produces a considerable share of the world's greenhouse gas emissions. To measure and compare the advantages and disadvantages of the intensification of livestock farming, an integrative analysis was conducted in this study by combining environmental impact analysis and animal welfare assessment. This approach is the first of its kind and is the innovative aspect of this paper. The methodology of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) entails the holistic analysis of various impact categories and the associated emission quantities of products, services, and resources over their life cycle, including resource extraction and processing, production processes, transport, usage, and the end of life. The outlines of LCA are standardized in DIN EN ISO 14040/14044. To assess the environmental impacts of the production of lamb meat in northern Italy, two case studies were undertaken using the LCA software GaBi. The analysis is based on primary data from two sheep-breeding systems (semi-extensive and semi-intensive in alpine and continental bioregions, respectively) combined with inventory data from the GaBi database and data from the literature. The assessment was conducted for the functional unit of 1 kg of lamb meat and focuses on the impact categories global warming potential, acidification potential, and eutrophication potential. For an overall evaluation of the supply chain, we have also considered a parameter indicating animal welfare, in keeping with consumer concerns, employing an analysis of chronic stress as shown by cortisol accumulation. The goal is to derive models and recommendations for an efficient, more sustainable use of resources without compromising animal welfare, meat quality, and competitiveness. The aim of this study is to provide a standard for individualized sustainability analyses for European lamb production systems in the future. From the LCA perspective, the more intensive case-study farm showed a lower impact in global impact factors and a higher impact in local impact categories in comparison with the more extensively run farm that was studied. From the animal welfare perspective, lower amounts of the stress hormone cortisol were found on the extensively managed case-study farm.

Association of a polymorphism in exon 3 of the IGF1R gene with growth, body size, slaughter and meat quality traits in Colored Polish Merino sheep

This study aimed to genotype the polymorphism (c.654G > A) in the exon 3 of the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor gene (IGF1R) and to analyze its association with growth, body size, slaughter and meat quality traits in Colored Polish Merino sheep. In total, 67 traits were analyzed. The IGF1R polymorphism was genotyped using the polymerase chain reaction single-strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) method. The MIXED procedure of the SAS software was used to assess the genotypic effects of the polymorphism (c.654G > A) on production traits of interest. The IGF1R c.654G > A genotypes were found to have a significant effect on the average daily gain between the 56th and 78th day of life, cold carcass, leg part, leg cut, fore shank, and kidney weights, as well as eye of loin depth, intramuscular fat content, and water-holding capacity of meat. The results suggest that the studied polymorphism may provide useful information for marker-assisted selection for increased meat performance in Colored Polish Merino sheep.

Effects of type of tropical pasture and concentrate supplementation level on the carcass traits of grazing lambs

The nutritional requirements can be met, and carcass quality can be achieved by using concentrate supplementation in the diets of grazing lambs. This study evaluated the effects of different concentrate supplementation rates (0 %, 1.5 %, and 3 % of body weight) and tropical pastures (Panicum maximum cv. `Aruana' and Brachiaria brizantha cv. `Marandu') on lamb carcass traits. Thirty-six male Suffolk lambs, with an initial body weight of 22.54 ± 2.72 kg, were evaluated in a 3 × 2 factorial experimental design. The concentrate used consisted of milled soybean, maize, and oat grains. The pasture species affected empty body weight and commercial cuts. The use of concentrate supplementation affected carcass weight, yield, indexes, and commercial cuts. Also, the use of concentrate supplementation improved the weight of muscle and fat content. Based on discriminant analysis it is possible to identify the rearing systems, when all variables where used, or the level of concentrate supplementation when variables of weight were used. Carcasses of animals on grass-only diets were different and easier to discriminate. The use of concentrate supplementation on rearing lambs improves the quality of carcass traits. The period of finishing can be shorted with supplementation of 3 % of body weigh in Aruana and Marandu grass. The discriminant analysis can identify the differences between rearing systems based on all carcass traits. This analysis can be used to develop carcass traceability systems.

Feeding Fungal-Pretreated Corn Straw Improves Health and Meat Quality of Lambs Infected with Gastrointestinal Nematodes

Simple Summary

Non-chemical strategies to control gastrointestinal nematode (GINs) infections are urgently needed to support the sustainable development of the livestock industry. The potential anti-parasitic properties in fungal-pretreated corn straw on health and meat quality of lambs infected with GINs were investigated in this study. In summary, feeding fungal-pretreated corn straw improved health and meat quality, including meat color and tenderness. Improved meat traits were attributed to fungal-pretreated corn straw providing additional dietary protein for lambs and secreting some nematicidal metabolites to repel GINs, which increased PCV and plasma iron content of lambs and reversed negative effects of GINs on meat quality.

Abstract

Infections with gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) adversely affect meat color in lambs. Although white-rot fungi (WRF) pretreatment increases nutritional value and fiber digestion of corn straw for lambs, whether it can improve meat quality of lambs infected with GINs is unknown. The objective of this experiment was to study effects of feeding WRF-pretreated corn straw on the health and meat quality of lambs infected with GINs. Sixteen healthy Ujumqin lambs were orally drenched with 3rd-stage GINs larvae and randomly divided into two dietary treatments of control (CON) and WRF diets for 70 days of feeding. Results showed that feeding WRF-pretreated corn straw decreased L* and b* values (p < 0.05) and increased a* value (p < 0.01) of both longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) and semimembranosus (SM) muscles of lambs infected with GINs. Feeding WRF-pretreatment corn straw decreased fecal egg count (p = 0.014) and increased packed cell volume (p = 0.013) of lambs from 28 d of feeding and increased plasma iron content (p = 0.008) of lambs from 56 d of the feeding. Feeding WRF-pretreatment corn straw decreased myosin heavy-chain (MyHC)-I (p = 0.032) and MyHC-IIα (p = 0.025) content in LTL muscle and MyHC-I (p = 0.022) and MyHC-IIβ (p = 0.048) in SM muscle of lambs. In conclusion, although there were no significant changes in the content of most amino acids or increased intensity of better flavor compounds, meat quality and health of lambs infected with GINs was significantly improved by feeding WRF-pretreated corn straw due to increased PCV and meat color and tenderness.

Effects of Feeding Increasing Levels of Yerba Mate on Lamb Meat Quality and Antioxidant Activity

Simple Summary

The population’s growing concern for health and the increased consumption of natural products have led to the study of the use of bioactive compounds in animal feed, especially those containing antioxidants. An example of this is yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis), a plant highly consumed in South America due to its antioxidant properties, which benefit human health and can reduce the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. However, the effects of yerba mate on animal feed as well as the composition and preservation of meat products are unknown. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of the inclusion level of yerba mate extract in the lamb’s diet on meat quality traits, antioxidant activity, and shelf-life. Our results showed that the use of the extract in lamb feed did not negatively affect the characteristics of lamb meat nor increase lipoperoxidation during a six-day storage period. The inclusion of 4% yerba mate extract (YME) resulted in a higher value in the yellow colour of the meat.

Abstract

The present study investigated the inclusion of yerba mate extract (YME) in the lamb’s diet on meat quality traits, antioxidant activity, and shelf-life. Thirty–six lambs were distributed according to a block design with the following groups: control group without YME (0%) and three treatment groups with 1, 2, and 4% YME inclusion in the dry matter. The animals were fed these diets for 53 days. Samples were collected from the Longissimusthoracis (LT) muscle to analyze antioxidant activity and meat quality. Samples were placed on a counter display simulating a retail environment for 0, 3, and 6 days at 4 ± 2 °C. All data were analyzed using a MIXED model with orthogonal contrasts. Inclusion of 1 and 4% YME in the diet changed the yellow (b*) and the chroma (C*) of the meat (p ≤ 0.05). The pH, colour, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and carbonyl values were influenced by the retail display time for all the evaluated treatments (p ≤ 0.03). However, neither diet nor the retail display time influenced the oxidation of proteins or the antioxidant enzyme activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione activity (GSH) in meat. Therefore, the inclusion of 4% YME showed positive results in the yellow and colour stability parameters of the meat without increasing the lipid peroxidation values or altering the normal meat quality parameters in lambs.

Motivations and Barriers for Sheep and Goat Meat Consumption in Europe: A Means-End Chain Study

This international study involving seven European countries (Italy, UK, Finland, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey) was conducted to explore the relevant reasons that affect both consumer and non-consumer perceptions of sheep and goat meat. Laddering and means-end chain theory were applied. The results indicate that consumers associate sheep and goat meat with a unique taste, authenticity and natural production, linked with values such as health and enjoyment of life. In contrast, non-consumers mainly feel disgusted when they think and feel about these meats, and do not associate any specific health benefits to their consumption, disliking their taste, odour and fat content. This study is based on qualitative research. Only analytical generalizations are possible, expanding the theory on what drives consumer behaviour when purchasing meat. No previous means-end chain studies are available in the literature regarding small ruminants' meat consumer preferences.

Effect of information on geographical origin, duration of transport and welfare condition on consumer's acceptance of lamb meat

Animal production system and welfare conditions can influence consumers’ acceptance, as meat from animals grazing in natural pasture and labelled with information about high standards of welfare is preferred. In addition, geographical origin of food is recently considered one of the main information influencing the consumers’ acceptance. Local products are collectively associated with high quality attributes by the consumers related to shorter transport and good welfare. Lamb meat is considered local and typical food; however, it is common to find in the same market both local and imported lamb meat. The present investigation aimed at understanding the importance of information about geographical origin, transport duration, and welfare condition of lambs for consumers and their actual liking. Moreover, the quality of lamb meat from local and imported animals as affected by short or long transport was assessed. Data demonstrated that both short and long transport did not affect organoleptic quality of meat; this result was corroborated by an absence of both metabolic and immune stressors in long term transport lambs except for haptoglobin, cortisol and glucose. However, the expected and actual acceptability were affected by the information with higher scores for local lamb when information on the geographical origin, transport duration, and welfare condition was provided to the consumers.

Genetics of Omega-3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Metabolism and Meat Eating Quality in Tattykeel Australian White Lambs

Meat eating quality with a healthy composition hinges on intramuscular fat (IMF), fat melting point (FMP), tenderness, juiciness, flavour and omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFA) content. These health-beneficial n-3 LC-PUFA play significant roles in optimal cardiovascular, retinal, maternal and childhood brain functions, and include alpha linolenic (ALA), eicosapentaenoic (EPA), docosahexaenoic (DHA) and docosapentaenoic (DPA) acids. The primary objective of this review was to access, retrieve, synthesise and critically appraise the published literature on the synthesis, metabolism and genetics of n-3 LC-PUFA and meat eating quality. Studies on IMF content, FMP and fatty acid composition were reviewed to identify knowledge gaps that can inform future research with Tattykeel Australian White (TAW) lambs. The TAW is a new sheep breed exclusive to MARGRA brand of lamb with an outstanding low fat melting point (28-39°C), high n-3 LC-PUFA EPA+DHA content (33-69mg/100g), marbling (3.4-8.2%), tenderness (20.0-38.5N) and overall consumer liking (7.9-8.5). However, correlations between n-3 LC-PUFA profile, stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD), fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4), fatty acid synthase (FASN), other lipogenic genes and meat quality traits present major knowledge gaps. The review also identified research opportunities in nutrition-genetics interactions aimed at a greater understanding of the genetics of n-3 LC-PUFA, feedlot finishing performance, carcass traits and eating quality in the TAW sheep. It was concluded that studies on IMF, FMP and n-3 LC-PUFA profiles in parental and progeny generations of TAW sheep will be foundational for the genetic selection of healthy lamb eating qualities and provide useful insights into their correlations with SCD, FASN and FABP4 genes.

Molecular Identification of the "Facciuta Della Valnerina" Local Goat Population Reared in the Umbria Region, Italy

Italy holds important genetic resources of small ruminant breeds. By distinguishing goat breeds at the DNA level, certification of products from specific breeds can be valorized. The aim of this study was to establish the genetic identity of Facciuta della Valnerina, a local goat population of Italy, compared with the cosmopolitan breeds, Saanen and Camosciata delle Alpi, reared in the same geographic area. A total of 116 microsatellite alleles ranging from 4 to 13 were detected at 16 loci in the three goat populations/breeds. A total of 23 private alleles with frequencies lower than 0.3 were detected in the Facciuta della Valnerina population. The mean numbers of alleles were 6.67, 4.58, and 4.92 in Facciuta della Valnerina, Camosciata delle Alpi, and Saanen, respectively. The expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.20 to 0.86. Most loci were highly polymorphic and informative (polymorphic information content ≥0.50). Factorial correspondence analysis and principal components analysis revealed very clear separation between Facciuta della Valnerina and the two reference goat breeds. Reducing the number of markers from 16 to 12 (on the basis of polymorphic information content and the number of alleles) still allowed us to distinguish the local population, indicating that microsatellite markers are capable of discriminating local livestock breeds at a low cost.