The Effect of the Slaughter Weight on Carcass Composition, Body Measurements and Veal Quality of Holstein Calves

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the growth, fattening characteristics and veal quality of MLT from Holstein calves (total number of 40 heads) produced from 4 slaughter weight groups (130, 150, 180 and 210 kg). Calves were fed in the same conditions. Average daily gains ranged from 660 g in slaughter weight 130 kg to 840 g in weight 210 kg (P < 0.001). The most important changes of linear body measurements were revealed in hip height and withers height (P < 0.001). Slaughter weight had strong impact on average daily gain and most of body measurements (P < 0.01). Slaughter weight influenced proportion of kidney, rumen and intestinal fat, while highest proportion was found in the group of 180 kg (P < 0.001). Calves of slaughter weight 180 kg had lowest proportion of bones (P < 0.001) and highest proportion of meat (P < 0.001) from right – half carcass. Highest proportion of separable fat had calves of 210 kg as well as 150 kg. In terms of nutritional quality of veal, we found significant and high individual differences in intramuscular fat content (P < 0.01) as well as between monitored groups. The lightness of the meat was highest in the group of 180 kg (P < 0.05). Protein content of the loin muscle had negative impact on intramuscular and moisture content (P < 0.001). Parameter pH strongly positively influenced drip loss value and negatively electrical conductivity.