Influence of the sex and type of tissue on the basic chemical composition and the content of minerals in the sirloin and offal of fattener pigs

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the basic chemical composition and mineral content in the sirloin and offal of fattener pigs, taking their sex into consideration. In addition, comparative analysis of the content of chemical and mineral components in the sirloin and offal was performed. The experimental material included 24 crossbred (Polish Landrace × Polish Large White) fatteners, from which samples of sirloin (musculus longissimus lumborum), liver, heart, and kidneys were collected for the analysis. A significant effect of the sex on the fat content in the sirloin and liver and on the level of magnesium (Mg), zinc, and iron (Fe) in the sirloin was demonstrated. Significant differences were found in the basic chemical composition and mineral content between the sirloin and the offal. In comparison with the liver, the sirloin contained lower amounts of protein and fat and higher potassium and Mg contents. In turn, the offal was shown to be a rich source of sodium, calcium, and trace elements (Fe, manganese, and copper). The mean cadmium concentration in the sirloin and offal was significantly lower than the threshold values for these elements, i.e., it accounted for 26% and 6.2% (liver)–19.5% (heart) of the allowable content of this element in pork meat and offal.