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Effect of Breed, Sex and Final Weight on Feedlot Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Meat Palatability of Lambs¹

South Dakota State University, Brookings 57007

Abstract

Eighty-six lambs were randomly allotted to treatment (heavy versus light slaughter weight) within breed (Targhee versus Suffolk x Targhee) and sex (rams versus wethers). Lambs in the lightweight group were fed to an average weight of approximately 54 kg, and the heavyweight group was fed to an average weight of approximately 64 kilograms. The heavy slaughter weight group had higher (P<.05) dressing percentages, heavier hindsaddles, more fat over the longissimus muscle, more kidney and pelvic fat, higher leg conformation scores and quality grades and larger longissimus muscle area; were less tender, and had less desirable yield grades than the lightweight group. Rams had higher (P<.05) carcass weights, more desirable yield grades, heavier hindsaddles, lower dressing percentages and less fat per kilogram of carcass weight than wethers. Also, in all feeding periods measured, the rams had higher average daily gains. Taste panel evaluation of cooked loin chops indicated no palatability differences (P<.05) between the two sex groups. The Suffolk x Targhee group had (P<.05) heavier carcass weights, more external fat, higher leg conformation scores and quality grades and more desirable flavor than straightbred Targhees. The Suffolk x Targhee group also had higher average daily gains for the total feeding period and from the initial to intermediate feeding period.

¹ Published with the approval of the Director of the South Dakota Agr. Exp. Sta. as pub. no. 1630 of the Journal Series.

² Present address: Meat Lab., Dept. of Anim. Sci., Colorado State Univ., Fort Collins 80523.

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