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Vasquez-Hidalgo MA, Mellencamp M, Amodie D, Bohrer BM, VanDeWeyer L, Vonnahme KA. Evaluation of Improvest effects on production parameters of gilts from two different genetic sire lines. Transl Anim Sci 2023; 8:txad144. [PMID: 38229685 PMCID: PMC10790734 DOI: 10.1093/tas/txad144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The objective was to evaluate the effects of Improvest on the performance and carcass characteristics of gilts from two different genetic sire lines and the performance of Improvest gilts with castrated male pigs. It was hypothesized that performance parameters observed for Improvest gilts would be similar to barrows, thus narrowing the performance gaps between traditionally managed gilts and barrows. Pigs were from Large White/Landrace dams and either Duroc-Pietrain (DP) or Duroc (D) sires. Females within each genetic sire line were randomized by weight to receive the first dose of Improvest (IMP) on day 25 of the study or to serve as a nontreated control (DP IMP gilt (n = 6 pens; 19 pigs/pen), D IMP gilt (n = 6 pens; 19 pigs/pen), DP CON gilt (n = 6 pens; 19 pigs/pen), D CON gilt (n = 6 pens; 19 pigs/pen). The second dose of Improvest was administered 6 wk later (i.e., day 67). Barrows did not receive Improvest (DP barrow [n = 10 pens; 19 to 20 pigs/pen], D barrow [n = 10 pens; 19 to 20 pigs/pen]). Average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and gain-to-feed ratio (G:F) were measured at 21 d intervals throughout the duration of the study. The targeted weight for pigs to be marketed was 133 ± 2.5 kg. Carcass characteristics and loin quality parameters were evaluated on a subset of pigs (n = 283). Improvest-treated gilts of both genetic lines had increased (P ≤ 0.05) ADG and ADFI compared to untreated gilts during the post-second dose intervals with values exceeding that of barrows from day 84 to marketing. Overall, DP IMP gilts had increased (P ≤ 0.05) G:F post-second dose compared to DP CON gilts and DP barrows, yet all other treatments were similar. As pigs were marketed at a similar weight, there was no difference in the final weight, however, DP IMP gilts and DP barrows reached market weight sooner (P ≤ 0.05) than DP CON gilts (109.9 and 111.8 vs. 114.3 ± 0.8 d). Backfat and loin weight were greater (P < 0.01) in IMP gilts versus CON gilts, while IMP gilts and barrows had similar values within each respective genetic sire line. There were no differences between treatments (P ≥ 0.08) for pH and instrumental color of the loins. When the pass rate of loins (Japanese color score ≥ 3.0 and marbling ≥ 2.0) was evaluated, IMP gilts were at intermediate values between CON gilts and barrows for each respective genetic sire line. Overall, Improvest within a genetic line improved gilt carcass measurements so that they were more similar to barrows.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Benjamin M Bohrer
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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Lebret B, Lhuisset S, Labussière E, Louveau I. Combining pig genetic and feeding strategies improves the sensory, nutritional and technological quality of pork in the context of relocation of feed resources. Meat Sci 2023; 197:109074. [PMID: 36525917 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2022.109074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Genetic and feeding factors were combined to improve various quality attributes of pork. Thirty Duroc (D) and thirty Pietrain NN (P) female crossbreeds received a control (C) or an R diet including extruded faba bean and linseed, from 30 to 115 kg. Growth, feed efficiency and slaughter weight were higher for P vs. D pigs and for R vs. C pigs. D pigs had fatter carcasses than P, whereas feeding did not affect carcass fatness. Compared with P, loin meat from D pigs had lower drip, higher ultimate pH and lipid content, and higher marbling, tenderness and juiciness scores (P < 0.05). R feeding did not modify sensory traits but improved pork nutritional value by markedly reducing n-6:n-3 and saturated:n-3 fatty acid ratios (P < 0.001). Combining D genotype and R diet is a favorable strategy for sensory, nutritional, technological properties and societal image of pork through relocation of feed resources, but requires a better market valorization to be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sihem Lhuisset
- PEGASE, INRAE, Institut Agro, 35590 Saint-Gilles, France
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Locally Grown Crops and Immunocastration in Fattening Heavy Pigs: Effects on Performance and Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12131629. [PMID: 35804528 PMCID: PMC9264884 DOI: 10.3390/ani12131629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to explore dietary replacement soybean meal (SBM) with local pea seeds (PS-L) and the effects of surgically castrated (CM) or immunocastration (IM) in heavy male pigs, on growth performance, feeding behaviour, and tail and ear lesions. Four treatments were arranged factorially (2 × 2), with two sexes and two dietary treatments (96 pigs in eight pens). The inclusion of PS-L was 25%, 30%, and 40% during three phases (40−80 kg, 80−110 kg, and 110−140 kg, respectively). No difference in average daily feed intake (ADFI) and body-weight (BW) between PS-L and SBM could be demonstrated (p > 0.05), but PS-L diet decreased the average daily gain (ADG) at 110−140 kg of BW (p < 0.001) and increased feed conversion rate (FCR) (p < 0.05). The ADG was higher (p < 0.01) in IM than CM in all fattening periods, and the FCR in IM was lower (p < 0.05) than in barrows. IM pigs had lower dressing percentage than CM (p < 0.01). Pigs fed a PS-L diet ate faster but increased their passive behaviour compared with those fed SBM. In conclusion, the PS-L diet did not reduce BW and improved passive behaviour, and IM grew more efficiently, regardless of diet.
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Pérez-Ciria L, Miana-Mena FJ, Álvarez-Rodríguez J, Latorre MA. Effect of Castration Type and Diet on Growth Performance, Serum Sex Hormones and Metabolites, and Carcass Quality of Heavy Male Pigs. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:1004. [PMID: 35454250 PMCID: PMC9024496 DOI: 10.3390/ani12081004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A trial was carried out to study the effect of type of castration and diet on pigs destined for Teruel ham production, which is a Spanish protected designation of origin for dry-cured ham. A total of 144 Duroc × (Landrace × Large White) male pigs were used. Half of them were surgically castrated and the other half were immunocastrated with three doses at approximately 25, 58 and 79 kg of body weight. Furthermore, three diets (control vs. high energy vs. low crude protein-CP- and amino acids-AA) were tested from 80 to 137 kg of body weight. Growth performance, serum sex hormones and metabolites, and carcass quality were evaluated. Immunocastrated males grew faster and had better feed conversion ratio than surgically castrated males, but presented lower carcass fatness. Pigs fed the high-energy diet and the low-CP and -AA diet were more efficient at transforming feed into gain than those fed the control diet, but no effect was detected on carcass quality. In conclusion, surgically castrated males are preferable than immunocastrated males for Teruel dry-cured ham elaboration. Besides, a high-energy diet or a low-CP and -AA diet might improve productive performances, but does not provide any benefit in terms of carcass quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Pérez-Ciria
- Departamento de Producción Animal y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2, Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - Francisco Javier Miana-Mena
- Departamento de Farmacología y Fisiología, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2, Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - Javier Álvarez-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Ciencia Animal, Universidad de Lleida, Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure 191, 25198 Lleida, Spain;
| | - Maria Angeles Latorre
- Departamento de Producción Animal y Ciencia de los Alimentos, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2, Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA, C/Miguel Servet 177, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain;
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Kowalski E, Vossen E, Millet S, Ampe B, De Smet S, Aluwé M. Effect of terminal sire line and timing second vaccination on effectiveness of immunocastration, performance, and carcass and meat quality. Meat Sci 2021; 175:108451. [PMID: 33556676 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2021.108451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Performance (from 10 weeks until slaughter), carcass and meat quality, and effectiveness of immunocastration was compared in crossbred offspring of stress positive (BP+) and negative (BP-) Belgian Piétrain and Canadian Duroc (CD) given the second vaccination of Improvac® at different times (4, 6, 8 weeks before slaughter). CD offspring had a significantly higher daily gain (DG) and feed intake (DFI), and lower predicted lean meat percentage (LMP) and dressing yield compared to BP+ and BP-, while feed conversion ratio (FCR) did not differ. CD offspring had significantly lower drip loss and higher pHi, intramuscular fat content than BP+ and BP- (except for pHi). No significant effect of vaccination time on DG nor FCR was observed. Predicted LMP tended to increase as time-post injection decreased, while meat quality was minor affected. Earlier vaccination had no effect on the effectiveness of immunocastration based on testosterone and GnRH-binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Kowalski
- Flander Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Melle, Belgium; Ghent University, Laboratory for Animal Nutrition and Animal Product Quality, Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent, Belgium
| | - E Vossen
- Ghent University, Laboratory for Animal Nutrition and Animal Product Quality, Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent, Belgium
| | - S Millet
- Flander Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Melle, Belgium
| | - B Ampe
- Flander Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Melle, Belgium
| | - S De Smet
- Ghent University, Laboratory for Animal Nutrition and Animal Product Quality, Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent, Belgium
| | - M Aluwé
- Flander Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Melle, Belgium.
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Djurkin Kušec I, Cimerman E, Škrlep M, Karolyi D, Gvozdanović K, Komlenić M, Radišić Ž, Kušec G. Influence of Immunocastration on Slaughter Traits and Boar Taint Compounds in Pigs Originating from Three Different Terminal Sire Lines. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11010228. [PMID: 33477673 PMCID: PMC7831900 DOI: 10.3390/ani11010228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Due to the negative public opinion and welfare issues related to surgical castration, gradual introduction of alternatives like entire males and immunocastrates is taking place. Despite several economical and welfare advantages that the alternatives offer, numerous issues (i.e., boar taint, meat quality alterations), as well as their interactions with rearing and breeding (genetic) factors remain unanswered. Therefore, the focus of this study was to investigate the possibility of using different commercial sire lines in three male sex categories (entire males, immunocastrates, surgical castrates) and to compare their carcass traits, meat quality and boar taint compounds. A significant effect of terminal sire line and/or male category together with their interaction was observed for most of the investigated carcass and meat quality traits. The observed interaction should be taken into consideration when deciding on the production of a specific male category. Abstract The aim of the research was to investigate the influence of terminal sire line (TSL) and male category (MC) on carcass and meat quality of commercial fatteners. The study was performed on 180 pigs originating from three terminal sire lines: A (Pietrain × Large White), B (pure Pietrain), and C (Pietrain × Duroc × Large White), being assigned to three groups according to MC: immunocastrates (IC, n = 60), surgical castrates (SC, n = 60) and entire males (EM, n = 60). TSL affected most of the carcass and meat quality traits, together with the androstenone concentration. At the same time, MC had a significant effect on fat thickness, ham circumference, drip loss, cooking loss and androstenone and skatole concentrations. A significant interaction effect was observed for carcass length and ham circumference, as well as for most of the measured meat quality traits (except cooking loss, CIE L*, CIE b*, and Warner Bratzler Shear Force (WBSF)). Among the three investigated sire lines, immunocastration was shown to be most beneficial for fatteners sired by the TSL C. However, if deciding to raise EM, fatteners from the TSL B are recommended in terms of carcass and meat quality, although strategies for avoiding boar taint in their carcasses must be taken into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivona Djurkin Kušec
- Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Faculty of Agrobiotechnical Sciences Osijek Vladimira Preloga 1, 31000 Osijek, Croatia; (I.D.K.); (K.G.); (Ž.R.)
| | - Emilija Cimerman
- Directorate for Professional Support to the Development of Agriculture and Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Republic of Croatia, Bani 110, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Martin Škrlep
- Agricultural Institute of Slovenia, Hacquetova Ulica 17, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Danijel Karolyi
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Agriculture, Svetošimunska Cesta 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Kristina Gvozdanović
- Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Faculty of Agrobiotechnical Sciences Osijek Vladimira Preloga 1, 31000 Osijek, Croatia; (I.D.K.); (K.G.); (Ž.R.)
| | - Miodrag Komlenić
- Belje Plus d.d., Svetog Ivana Krstitelja 1a, 31326 Darda, Croatia;
| | - Žarko Radišić
- Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Faculty of Agrobiotechnical Sciences Osijek Vladimira Preloga 1, 31000 Osijek, Croatia; (I.D.K.); (K.G.); (Ž.R.)
| | - Goran Kušec
- Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Faculty of Agrobiotechnical Sciences Osijek Vladimira Preloga 1, 31000 Osijek, Croatia; (I.D.K.); (K.G.); (Ž.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +385-31-554-866; Fax: +385-31-554-853
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Carcass gain per kg feed intake: developing a stakeholder-driven benchmark for comparing grow-finishing pig performance. Animal 2020; 14:2609-2618. [PMID: 32654668 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731120001664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Feed conversion ratio (FCR) in grow-finishing pigs is one of the most important determinants of pig farm profitability and production efficiency. In its simplest form, FCR represents the amount of feed used per unit weight gain of the pig. Yet, this approach entails various limitations hampering its practical applicability such as availability of accurate data and large variation in ways to adapt FCR values for different starting and end weight as well as mortality rates. Various stakeholders are using their own formulas to determine FCR creating a 'definition nonconformity' when comparing FCRs among farms. This study aimed to optimize the calculation of FCR through the use of participatory qualitative research. A multidisciplinary research group of 9 persons (animal scientists, veterinarians and agricultural economists) and a consulting group of 31 stakeholders (representing the Flemish primary sector, feed industry, pharma, genetic companies, large retailers, academia and policy institutions) were involved. The decision problem analysis started with a literature review, followed by 25 in-depth interviews and their analyses (NVivo 11™). This led to an additional literature review and the formation of focus (expert) groups that helped to formulate preliminary FCR formulas. Revision rounds between the research team and the stakeholders further fine-tuned the formulas with the final result being two distinct complimentary formulas that are fit for purpose. Both refer to carcass gain per kg feed intake (plain (CGF) and standardized (CGFstandardized)). The first formula (CGF), namely ${{{\it{number \, delivered \, pigs}} \times {\it{average \, warm \, carcass \, weight}} - {\it{number \, stocked \, piglets}} \times {\it{average \, piglet \, weight}} \times {\it{piglet \, carcass \, yield}}} \over {{\it{feed \, consumption}}}}$ is an objective representation of the animals' performance. The second formula (CGFstandardized) was developed for farm benchmarking, incorporating a seven-step standardization process that corrects for mortality and 'standardizes' for a fixed (yet fictive) live weight trajectory of 25 to 115 kg. This second formula allows to compare farms (or batches of fattening pigs) with different weight trajectories and different mortality rates. A webtool was designed to ease this standardization process (https://varkensloket.be/tools/CGF).
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Kowalski E, Vossen E, Millet S, Ampe B, Callens B, Van Royen G, De Smet S, Aluwé M. Performance and carcass, loin and ham quality in crossbreds from three terminal sire lines. Meat Sci 2020; 167:108158. [PMID: 32388088 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2020.108158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to compare performance, carcass and meat quality of crossbred of a hybrid sow x three sire lines, i.e. stress positive Belgian Piétrain (BP), stress negative French Piétrain (FP) and Canadian Duroc (CD). BP offspring had a significantly higher carcass yield (p < .001) and lean meat content (p < .001) in comparison with FP, which was higher than CD. BP offspring had significantly lower pH (p < .05), water-holding capacity (WHC) (p < .001) and intramuscular fat (IMF) (p < .001) content in the loin compared to FP and CD, but these meat quality parameters, with the exception of pH, were superior for CD as compared to FP. In accordance with loin quality, pHi, pHu, WHC and IMF of BP were significantly lower (p < .05) compared to CD in the fresh and cooked ham. Most often, FP offspring could not be differentiated from the other offspring, with the exception of cooking loss of the cooked ham. Trained and consumer taste panels resulted in no significant differences (p > .1) in sensory attributes, however, consumers preffered CD based on ranking.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Kowalski
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Melle, Belgium; Laboratory for Animal Nutrition and Animal Product Quality, Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - E Vossen
- Laboratory for Animal Nutrition and Animal Product Quality, Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - S Millet
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Melle, Belgium
| | - B Ampe
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Melle, Belgium
| | - B Callens
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Melle, Belgium; Laboratory for Animal Nutrition and Animal Product Quality, Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - G Van Royen
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Technology and Food Science Unit, Melle, Belgium
| | - S De Smet
- Laboratory for Animal Nutrition and Animal Product Quality, Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - M Aluwé
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Animal Sciences Unit, Melle, Belgium.
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Effects of Housing, Short Distance Transport and Lairage on Meat Quality of Finisher Pigs. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10050788. [PMID: 32370126 PMCID: PMC7278422 DOI: 10.3390/ani10050788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Knowledge of stressful stimuli is a fundamental aspect to improve and evaluate animal welfare. Animal stressors vary in function of, for example, housing, climate and handling technique. That is why it is important to investigate animal welfare in different circumstances (e.g., type of housing, climate and region). Belgian pig production is based on the Piétrain breed which is associated with the halothane gene and hence with the genetic susceptibility to stress. In pigs, there is a negative correlation between stress in the last few hours of their life and the final meat quality. In our research we investigated several potential parameters that could influence the meat quality of pork. We can conclude that numerous parameters on farm, during transport and in slaughterhouse influence meat quality. Specifically, reducing lung lesions by vaccination during raising, no mixing of pigs during the transport process, sufficient lairage time and transporting no extreme muscled pigs can improve meat quality. Adequate control and application of guidelines on farm, transport and slaughterhouse level are necessary to improve animal welfare, but also to reduce deterioration of meat quality important for the financial aspect and the appreciation of the consumer. Abstract Transport and associated handling can have adverse effects on pig welfare and meat quality. The purpose of the study was to determine (the variation of) effects of farm management, climate parameters, transport and lairage conditions on the meat quality of fattening pigs, heterozygous for the halothane gene. A total of 4763 fattening pigs were transported from 1 farm to a commercial slaughterhouse (distance 110 km) in 121 transports. From 2404 carcasses, carcass temperature and pH were measured 45 min post-mortem; 48 hours post-mortem pH, electrical conductivity, drip loss and meat color were registered. During the raising period sex, conditions at weaning (purchased or not as piglet, vaccination against mycoplasma) and (type of) pen during fattening (i.e., from about 22 kg to 105 kg) were registered to relate with pork quality. Transport season, weather parameters, regrouping or not during loading, transport combination (truck, trailer and driver), transport compartment and transport conditions (loading density, transport duration and unloading time) were monitored. At the slaughterhouse, duration of lairage and carcass conformation were followed up to examine correlations with meat quality parameters. Effects of farm management, climate parameters during transport, transport and slaughterhouse conditions on pork quality were demonstrated. Specifically, reducing lung lesions by vaccination during raising, no mixing of pigs during the transport process, sufficient lairage time and transporting no extreme muscled pigs can improve meat quality.
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Wang C, Zeng YT, Chen XY, Wu QY, Yang LQ, Xu L, Zhang Y, Qazi IH, Zhou GB, Zeng CJ, Zuo ZZ, Song TZ, Zhu Q, Zhang M. Improvac induces immunocastration by affecting testosterone levels and disrupting spermatogenesis in male broiler chickens. Poult Sci 2020; 98:6034-6045. [PMID: 31041439 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pez228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunocastration (vaccination against Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)) has been regarded as a friendly substitution to physical castration in animals. To date, a few studies have reported the use of Improvac for immunocastration in boar and one study in broiler chickens; however, there is an apparent dearth of scientific evidence regarding the application of Improvac for immunocastration in birds. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of Improvac-based immunocastration on testosterone levels and spermatogenesis in broiler chickens and the effects of Improvac on the expression of genes related to testosterone biosynthesis and metabolism as well as spermatogenesis. The birds were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 30 each): Control group (non-immunized), Early group (immunized with Improvac at week 3), Late group (immunized with Improvac at week 6), and Early + Late group (immunized with Improvac at weeks 3 and 6). Immunization with Improvac significantly improved the average daily gain compared to the Control group. Of note, following Improvac vaccination, the reproductive efficiency was significantly decreased in male broiler chickens. Furthermore, parameters such as the serum testosterone concentration, spermatogenesis, and the expression levels of genes related to testosterone metabolism (Cyp17A1, Cyp19, HSD3B1, and HSD17B3) and spermatogenesis (Cyclin A1 and Cyclin A2) were significantly reduced in the immunized groups compared to the Control group. Taken together, these findings reveal that immunization against GnRH can be achieved, at least partially, in male broiler chickens. The results of our study also support the hypothesis of using Improvac as an alternative solution to caponization, with considerably improved animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Wang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - Y T Zeng
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - X Y Chen
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - Q Y Wu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - L Q Yang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - L Xu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - Y Zhang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - Izhar Hyder Qazi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu-611130, P.R. China.,Department of Veterinary Anatomy & Histology, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Sakrand-67210, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - G B Zhou
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu-611130, P.R. China
| | - C J Zeng
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu-611130, P.R. China
| | - Z Z Zuo
- College of Animal Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu-611130, P.R. China
| | - T Z Song
- Institute of Animal Science, Tibet Academy of Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Science, Lhasa, Tibet 850009, China
| | - Q Zhu
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, China
| | - M Zhang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, China
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Muniz HDCM, Rocha LTD, Kunzler JS, Ceron MS, Fraga BN, Bottan J, Quadros ARBD, Oliveira VD. Evaluation of factorial methods to estimate lysine requirements for barrows and immunocastrated pigs. Livest Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2019.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Monitoring of behavior, sex hormones and boar taint compounds during the vaccination program for immunocastration in three sire lines. Res Vet Sci 2019; 124:293-302. [PMID: 31026762 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2019.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Immunocastration (vaccination against boar taint) is an alternative method to prevent boar taint without the need for surgical castration. This study investigates the evolution of boar taint compounds in serum and fat, serum steroid compounds as well as behavior in immunocastrated pigs from 3 sire lines: 15 stress positive Belgian Piétrain (BP), 20 stress negative French Piétrain (FP), and 20 stress negative Canadian Duroc (CD). Hormone and boar taint compounds in serum were determined at 4 time points; boar taint compounds in fat were determined at 3 time points. Behavior, skin lesions, animal and pen fouling were also recorded before the first vaccination (<V1), between the first and second vaccination (<V2), and after the second vaccination (>V2). Aggressiveness, eating and drinking and general activity behavior declined from <V1 to <V2 and > V2 for all sire lines. Pigs from BP were cleaner than FP and CD pigs. Even though immunocastration was effective in general (reduced testosterone, estradiol as well as androstenone in serum) for all sire lines, some individual pigs showed either androstenone or skatole levels in fat above cutoff values. While the immunocastration mechanism works as intended for androstenone, and also for skatole for the three sire lines, the risk of carcasses with boar taint compounds above cutoff levels (respectively 1.9 and 3.7%) still remains to some extent.
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Park J, Campbell C, Squires E, de Lange C, Mandell I. Effects of pig genotype, immunological castration, and use of ractopamine on growth performance, carcass traits, and pork quality for entire male pigs. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2019. [DOI: 10.1139/cjas-2017-0166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Entire male (EM) pigs (152; ∼30 kg body weight) were used to examine immunocastration using Improvest and feeding ractopamine on growth performance, carcass and meat quality, and fatty acid composition. Timing for administering second dose of Improvest compared dosing at 4 and 8 wk pre-slaughter. A factorial arrangement evaluated two genotypes [Large Whites and Duroc crossbreds (Durocs)] by five management regimens (EM fed control diet, EM fed ractopamine, second dose Improvest 4 wk pre-slaughter, second dose Improvest 8 wk pre-slaughter, second dose Improvest 4 wk pre-slaughter plus ractopamine). Average daily gain and gain to feed (G:F) were generally greater (P ≤ 0.01) in Durocs. Immunocastration increased (P < 0.01) dry matter intake (DMI); feeding ractopamine decreased (P < 0.02) DMI and increased (P < 0.03) G:F. Immunocastration decreased (P < 0.04) carcass and lean yields; feeding ractopamine increased (P < 0.04) carcass weights, lean yield, muscling, and longissimus shear force while decreasing (P < 0.01) backfats. Immunocastration did not affect loin pH, color, drip loss, and shear force. Timing for second Improvest dose did not affect most growth performance, carcass, and meat quality traits except for greater (P < 0.02) backfats when administering dose 8 wk pre-slaughter. Effects of immunocastration and (or) feeding ractopamine were relatively consistent in both genotypes evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Park
- ADM Animal Nutrition, Woodstock, ON N4S 0A8, Canada
| | - C.P. Campbell
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - E.J. Squires
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - C.F.M. de Lange
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - I.B. Mandell
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
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Lertpatarakomol R, Chaosap C, Chaweewan K, Sitthigripong R, Limsupavanich R. Carcass characteristics and meat quality of purebred Pakchong 5 and crossbred pigs sired by Pakchong 5 or Duroc boar. ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2018; 32:585-591. [PMID: 30208699 PMCID: PMC6409453 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.18.0279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Objective This study investigated carcass characteristics and meat quality of purebred Pakchong 5, crossbred pigs sired by Pakchong 5, and crossbred pigs sired by Duroc. Methods Forty-eight pigs (average body weight of 22.25 kg) were composed of three groups as purebred Pakchong 5 (PP), Large White×Landrace pigs sired by Pakchong 5 (LWLRP), and Large White×Landrace pigs sired by Duroc (LWLRD). Each group consisted of eight gilts and eight barrows. At 109-day-raising period, pigs were slaughtered, and carcass characteristics were evaluated. Longissimus thoracis (LT) muscles from left side of carcasses were evaluated for meat quality and chemical composition. Data were analyzed using general linear model procedure, where group, sex, and their interaction were included in the model. Results The PP had greater carcass, total lean, and ham percentages than crossbred pigs (p< 0.05). LWLRP had thicker backfat and more carcass fat percentage than LWLRD (p<0.05). There were no differences (p>0.05) on cutting percentages from tender loin, loin, boston butt, and picnic shoulder among groups. The PP and LWLRP had larger loin eye area (LEA) than LWLRD (p<0.05). Gilts had more loin percentage and lower L* value than barrows (p<0.05). No meat color parameters (L*, a*, and b*) were affected by groups (p>0.05). PP and LWLRP had larger muscle fiber diameters than LWLRD (p<0.05). However, water holding capacity, Warner-Bratzler shear force values, and chemical composition of LT were not affected by group or sex (p>0.05). Conclusion Pakchong 5 purebred has good carcass and lean percentages. Compared to Duroc crossbred pigs, Pakchong 5 crossbreds have similar carcass and lean percentages, larger LEA, and slightly more carcass fat, with comparable meat quality and chemical composition. Pakchong 5 boars are more affordable for very small- to medium-scale pig producers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachakris Lertpatarakomol
- Department of Animal Production Technology and Fisheries, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok 10520, Thailand.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mahanakorn University of Technology, Bangkok 10530, Thailand
| | - Chanporn Chaosap
- Department of Agricultural Education, Faculty of Industrial Education and Technology, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok 10520, Thailand
| | - Kamon Chaweewan
- Bureau of Animal Husbandry and Genetic Improvement, Department of Livestock Development, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Ronachai Sitthigripong
- Department of Animal Production Technology and Fisheries, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok 10520, Thailand
| | - Rutcharin Limsupavanich
- Department of Animal Production Technology and Fisheries, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Bangkok 10520, Thailand
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Poulsen Nautrup B, Van Vlaenderen I, Aldaz A, Mah C. The effect of immunization against gonadotropin-releasing factor on growth performance, carcass characteristics and boar taint relevant to pig producers and the pork packing industry: A meta-analysis. Res Vet Sci 2018; 119:182-195. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Channon HA, D'Souza DN, Dunshea FR. Electrical stimulation or moisture infusion improves the eating quality attributes of loin and silverside cuts from female and immunocastrated male pigs. Meat Sci 2018; 143:257-267. [PMID: 29857268 DOI: 10.1016/j.meatsci.2018.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Revised: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study validated the effect of gender (female, immunocastrated male; n = 50), electrical stimulation (none or 150 mA constant current for 30 s at 2 min post-slaughter) and ageing period (2 or 14 d) on the eating quality of pork roast and stir fry sourced from the loin (M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum) and silverside (M. biceps femoris) and steak from the loin only. Moisture infusion was applied to 2 d aged, non-stimulated primals as a positive control treatment. Neither gender nor ageing period influenced (P > 0.05) eating quality. Electrical stimulation and moisture infusion were each effective interventions in improving pork eating quality, but their effects were inconsistent between the five cuts evaluated. No interventions achieved the fail rate target of <10% for quality grade for all cuts, indicating that additional interventions are needed to enable industry to consistently deliver high quality pork.
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Affiliation(s)
- H A Channon
- Australian Pork Limited, P.O. Box 4746, Kingston 2604, Australia; Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, VIC, Australia.
| | - D N D'Souza
- SunPork Solutions, PO Box 5950, Manly, QLD 4179, Australia
| | - F R Dunshea
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, VIC, Australia
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Daza A, Latorre M, Olivares A, López Bote C. The effects of male and female immunocastration on growth performances and carcass and meat quality of pigs intended for dry-cured ham production: A preliminary study. Livest Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2016.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Field experience with surgical castration with anaesthesia, analgesia, immunocastration and production of entire male pigs: performance, carcass traits and boar taint prevalence. Animal 2014; 9:500-8. [PMID: 25434616 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731114002894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Male piglets are castrated to reduce boar taint and also to reduce aggressive and sexual behaviour. However, the procedure as traditionally performed is painful and negatively affects performance. Large-scale results about the consequences of implementing alternatives on farms are lacking. We, therefore, investigated the practical applicability of the following five alternatives that can be implemented in the short term: surgical castration (1) without pain relief (CONT, control group), (2) with analgesia (MET, Metacam, 0.2 ml, 10 to 15 min before castration), (3) with general anaesthesia (CO2, inhalation, 100% CO2, 25 s, 3 l/min), (4) vaccination against boar taint (IM, two injections with Improvac) and (5) production of entire males (EM). The study consisted of the following two trials: (1) an experimental farm trial with 18 animals/treatment and (2) a large field trial on 20 farms with ~120 male pigs/farm per treatment and all treatments performed on each farm. Performance results as well as data on carcass traits, boar taint (hot-iron method) and testes development and weight were collected in both trials. Neither castration nor administration of analgesia or anaesthesia had an effect on daily gain of the piglets in the farrowing crates (P>0.05). Farmer records indicated that mortality in the farrowing crates (1.1%), nursery pens (1.8%) and fattening stable (2.2%) was not influenced by MET or CO2 compared with EM, IM or CONT (P>0.05). No significant differences were found for daily gain (P>0.05) nor slaughter age (P>0.05). Immunocastrates and EM had a better gain-to-feed ratio (P<0.05) compared with the groups of barrows (CONT, MET and CO2). Lean meat percentage was higher for EM compared with the barrows, and intermediate for IM (P<0.05). Carcass yield was lowest for IM (P<0.05). The hot-iron method indicated that boar taint was eliminated in barrows and IM compared with EM (P<0.001). Average prevalence of strong boar taint was 3% for EM, but varied from 0% to 14% between farms. As the effect of treatment on performance as well as the level of boar taint of EM was farm dependent, farmers should be encouraged to pre-test the different alternatives in order to make a well-considered choice for the best practical and profitable alternative for their farm.
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Puls CL, Ellis M, McKeith FK, Gaines AM, Schroeder AL. Effects of ractopamine on growth performance and carcass characteristics of immunologically and physically castrated barrows and gilts. J Anim Sci 2014; 92:4725-32. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2014-7882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- C. L. Puls
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801
| | - M. Ellis
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801
| | - F. K. McKeith
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801
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