Carcass and Meat Quality Traits in Female <i>Lidia</i> Cattle Slaughtered at Different Ages

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the carcass and meat quality of female Lidia cattle slaughtered at different ages, in order to deepen our understanding of the breed’s unique characteristics. The effect of slaughter age on carcass traits and meat quality attributes of m. Longissimus was investigated in Lidia heifers (n = 200) and cows (n = 100) reared and finished in an extensive system. The animals were slaughtered at 24–36 months (Heifer I), 36–48 months (Heifer II) or >48 months (Cull cow). The carcasses (~120 kg) presented poor conformation (O, O+) and medium fatness (2, 2+). The dissection of the 6th rib yielded mean values of 58.6%, 14.3% and 24.8% for lean, fat and bone, respectively. The cows had a higher proportion of dissectible fat (p 2). The b* value of meat was higher (p p p p p p < 0.001).

Keywords

• <i>Lidia</i> cattle
• carcass traits
• meat quality
• sensory panel
• local breeds