Carcass Weight Research Articles

Effects of nicotinamide riboside in ovo feeding on high-yield broiler performance, meat quality, and myopathy incidence.

Introduction: The objective of this study was to examine the effects of in ovo nicotinamide riboside (NR) feeding on high-yield broiler growth and meat quality. Methods: Fertilized Cobb 700 by-product eggs (N = 3,240) were randomly assigned to one of four in ovo treatments and injected with 0 (0NR), 250 (250NR), 500 (500NR), or 1,000 (1,000NR) mM NR at incubation-day 10. Chicks were hatched, vent sexed, and randomly placed 18 per pen in one of 32 floor pens. On day 48, birds were processed and deboned. Results: There were dose effects for all part weights (p < 0.05). Pectoralis major weight of 250, 500, and 1,000NR carcasses were heavier than 0NR (p < 0.03) but did not differ from remaining NR doses (p > 0.26). Pectoralis minor weight of 250NR carcasses was greater (p < 0.01) than 0NR and did not differ from other NR tenders (p > 0.21). Pectoralis minor weight of 500 and 1,000NR carcasses was greater than 0NR (p < 0.09), but did not differ (P = 0.82) from each other. There were no dose effects for all Pectoralis major and minor myopathy scores and incidence except incidence of tenders scoring "0" and "1" for woody-like tender. Percentage of NR1,000 tenders scoring 0 and 1 for woody-like tender were less than and greater than all other treatments, respectively (p < 0.05). There were no differences among remaining NR doses and NR0 tenders (p > 0.10). There were dose effects for muscle fiber number (P = 0.03). There tended to be more muscle fibers within 250 and 1,000NR muscles compared to 0NR (p < 0.09). Pectoralis major muscle from 500NR did not differ in muscle fiber number compared to 250 and 1,000NR (p > 0.18), but had more (p < 0.01) fibers than 0NR muscle. There tended to be more fibers in 250 and 1,000NR muscles compared to 0NR muscle (p < 0.09). Discussion: Nicotinamide riboside in ovo feeding caused birds to produce heavier parts; however, myopathy scores and incidence were minimally affected which may have been due greater muscle fiber number.

Biological features and meat productivity of young pheasants during intensive rearing

In pheasant breeding, the influence of the method of housing on the meat productivity of the livestock has not been sufficiently studied yet, and the reserves of the young pheasants’ growth potential during crossbreeding have been little utilized. At the same time, it is necessary to clearly determine the influence of sexual dimorphism of pheasants on meat productivity parameters in order to effectively improve the technology of rearing meat pheasants for increased weight categories. The purpose of the work was to study the biological characteristics and parameters of meat productivity of young pheasants during intensive rearing. The increase in meat productivity of pheasants by crossbreeding F1 (♂ Romanian pheasant × ♀ hunting pheasant) against the background of optimizing the conditions for housing crossbred young animals and using a new feeding system based on the predominant use of corn grain with phase changes in the concentration of energy and protein in compound feed was studied in the work. When developing a new technological scheme for the intensive rearing of pheasants for meat up to increased weight categories, the feeding preferences of the birds, the infl uence of sexual dimorphism, blood parameters and features of the histological structure of muscle tissue were taken into account. It has been established that in order to increase the production of high-quality pheasant meat, it is necessary to intensively raise crossbred F1 cockerels (♂ Romanian × ♀ hunting pheasant) in an open-air cage (0,4 m2/head) and the use of compound feed with a constantly high specifi c gravity of crude protein (up to 25 %) and corn grain component (50–55 % by weight of the compound feed), which makes it possible to obtain increased weight categories of meat pheasant at the age of 16 weeks such as live weight of young animals 1551,2±25,09 g, and gutted carcass weight 1228,3±11,85 g.

Beef productivity of steers of Bestuzhev breed when using an enzyme additive with including of microelements

The value of animals feeding should be provided them with nutrients, but also with biologically active substances such as microelements. Making the task of increasing the productivity of cattle, along with improving the genetic potential, the problem of insuffi cient or unbalanced feeding becomes of great importance. This problem can be solved by using biologically active additives. The purpose of the research was to study the beef productivity of Bestuzhev breed steers with using an enzyme additive containing microelements. The experimental part of the research was carried out at the breeding farm “Agrofi rm Pravda” in the Sterlibashevsky district of the Republic of Bashkortostan. For the experiment steers of the Bestuzhev breed were selected on the principle of analogous pairs and formed into three groups (control, 1st and 2nd experimental). In the 1st experimental group, 15 mg/kg of complete feed enzyme additive plus microelements (protoisotilin with proteolytic activity at a dose of 0,03 % of the dry matter of the ration) was added to the basic ration of steers. In the 2nd experimental group the enzyme amylosubtilin with amylolytic activity was used at a dose of 0,03 % of the dry matter of the ration and a mixture of microelement salts (potassium, cobalt, manganese and citric acid). It was found as a result that with the use of biostimulants for 45 days with 15-day breaks, there was an increase in the total live weight of steers and adipose tissue with a stable carcass weight, regardless of animal groups. The highest rates of slaughter yield were observed in steers of the 2nd experimental group 65,29 %, in steers of the 1st experimental group it was 64,16 % and slightly lower than the control group 63,10 %. The diff erence in comparison with herdmates in the control group was 2,19 and 1,06 %, respectively.

Effect of crossbreeding on growth performance, meat quality, and the economics of production of the pure and reciprocal crosses between the Sasso and Wassachie chickens

The interplay between genetics and economics is important in understanding how crossbreeding can be harnessed to optimize sustainable poultry production, meat quality, and economic viability. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of crossbreeding on growth performance, meat quality, and production economics. A total of 451 unsexed day-old chicks were raised for 12 wk in a pure (Sasso X Sasso [SS]; Wassachie X Wassachie [WW]) and reciprocal cross (Sasso X Wassachie [SW]; Wassachie X Sasso [WS]) design. Data was collected on growth performance, meat quality, sensory evaluation, proximate analysis, and production economics. Genotype did not affect (P > 0.05) moisture, dry matter, ash, sensory evaluation, pH, and meat temperature. The carcass weights, final body weight, and cumulative weight gain of the hybrids were intermediate while the SS recorded the highest (P < 0.05) values. Drip loss between the WW and the reciprocal crosses was similar (P > 0.05) but lower (P < 0.05) than the SS genotype. Protein contents between the purebreds were similar likewise the crossbreds (P > 0.05). The SW cross recorded a higher (P < 0.05) lipid content compared to the WW cross while the WS recorded a higher (P < 0.05) protein content compared to the SS. The SS incurred higher feeding costs, and gross and net returns followed by the SW and then the WS with the WW having the lowest values. Crossbreeding improved growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, chemical composition, and the gains in the crossbreds with the SW genotype having better results. The SW cross is recommended for better performance.

Performance of Boran and Two Strains of Tanzania Short Horn Zebu Cattle Fed on Three Different Diets

A 3x3 factorial experiment was carried out to assess the performance of Boran breed (BRN), Iringa Red (IRR) and Singida White (SWT) strains of cattle fed on three different diets (D1, D2, and D3) under a feedlot condition. The diets contained hominy feed plus molasses (D1 or control), molasses and cassava meal (D2) and rice polishing (D3) as main energy sources. In addition, they contained sunflower seed cake as protein source, minerals and vitamins premix. Fifty-four (54) bulls of equal numbers of each strain, aged between 2 and 2.5 years and average initial weight of 194 ± 12.6 kg were randomly allocated in the three diets and housed in a feedlot structure. They were fed individually with their respective dietary treatments for 80 days, during which data on feed intake and growth performance were recorded. Thereafter 45 bulls with equal number of strains were slaughtered, and carcass characteristics were assessed and gross margins computed. The CP contents (g/kg) in the diets were highest in D2 (155), followed by D1 (141.7) and lowest (130) in D3. There were no significant (P&amp;gt;0.05) interaction effect of diet and breed/strain in all the parameters assessed on performance. Bulls fed on D2 grew faster (0.99 kg/d) and attained greater final weight (269.9 kg) and heavier carcasses (140.8 kg) followed by those fed on D1 with mean values of (0.92 kg/d), (258.1 kg) and (131.5 kg), respectively. The average dressing percentage followed a similar trend, being higher (P&amp;lt;0.05) in bulls fed on D2 (52.4) compared to those on D1 (51.7) and D3 (51.1). The BRN bulls had faster growth rates (1.04 kg/d) followed by the IRR (0.83 g/d), which had similar (P&amp;gt;0.05) average daily gain to that of SWT (0.83 g/d). The final weight of BRN bulls (267.4 kg) was not different (P&amp;gt;0.05) from that of IRR (257.5 kg), which was also found to be similar (P&amp;gt;0.05) to that of SWT (251.2 kg). The hot carcass weights followed similar trend, BRN having carcass weight (138.2 kg) similar (P&amp;gt;0.05) to IRR (130.4 kg), which happened to be not different (P&amp;gt;0.05) from that of SWT (129.3 kg). The mean dressing percentage was higher (P&amp;lt;0.05) for BRN (52.2) than other strains. It is concluded that value of weight gains and slaughter characteristics of Iringa red are comparable to those of Boran, thus for feedlot finishing farmers should be advised to select and use Iringa red bulls to obtain high carcass and large profit.

Feeding strategy in organic pig farming as a lever to improve various quality dimensions of pork

Since 2022, European specifications for organic pig farming have evolved to distribute 100 % organic feed and to reinforce the link to the soil with feed resources that should primarily be obtained from the farm or the same region. Feeding strategy acts as a lever to improve various quality dimensions of organic (as well as conventional) pork, including intrinsic dimensions (carcass composition, nutritional, organoleptic, technological, sanitary qualities) and extrinsic dimensions related to animal farming (image). Diet may also influence the risk of undesirable odours or flavours that may be found in pork from non-castrated male pigs. This study aimed at evaluating the effects of a specific feeding strategy on several quality dimensions of organic meat from non-castrated male pigs. The experiment was conducted with 77 organic non-castrated male pigs (Piétrain NN × Large White) reared according to organic specifications and distributed in two batches. Within litters, male littermates were allocated at around 33 kg of live weight to either a Control group which received a Control feed (C) corresponding to the organic specifications or in a Bio+ group which received an organic test feed based mainly on French raw materials and which contained more fibres (faba bean and access to forages) and omega-3 fatty acids (linseed, camelina). All pigs were reared in the same building on deep straw bedding (1.3 m2/pig) with free outdoor access (1.0 m2/pig) using one pen per experimental group. Pigs were fed ad libitum until slaughter at about 125 kg live weight. Average daily gain, carcass weight and lean meat content did not differ significantly between C and Bio+ pigs. Compared to C, Bio+ pigs had higher (P < 0.05) ultimate pH in the loin (Longissimus muscle) and ham (Gluteus medius, and Semimembranosus) muscles, associated with a lower Longissimus muscle glycolytic potential (P < 0.001). Loin and ham meat from Bio+ vs. C pigs was lighter (P < 0.05) and had a more intense red colour (P < 0.10). The Bio+ strategy led to a lower Longissimus muscle n-6:n-3 fatty acid ratio (P < 0.001), indicating an improvement in pork nutritional value. Backfat skatole concentration was lower in Bio+ than in C pigs whereas backfat androstenone was higher in Bio+ than in C pigs (P < 0.05). Altogether, we demonstrated that the Bio+ strategy had positive impacts on several qualities of organic pork from non-castrated male pigs.

Aspartic protease supplementation enhancing the performance, carcass characteristics, nutrient digestibility and economic viability, without changing blood parameters and salivary cortisol of pigs

Aiming to study the performance, carcass characteristics, nutrient digestibility, blood parameters, salivary cortisol levels, and economic viability of pigs administered aspartic protease, a total of 135 pigs were housed in pens in a randomized block design, divided into five treatments with nine replications. The experimental diets were positive control (PC), basic diet with a 5.0% reduction in protein and amino acid requirements; negative control (NC) with a 7.5% reduction in protein and amino acid requirements; NC + 100 g/mT of aspartic protease (NC100); NC + 150 g/mT of aspartic protease (NC150); and NC + 200 g/mT of neutral serine protease (NC200). The inclusion of protease, independently of the source and amount, increased the average daily weight gain (P < 0.05) of animals compared with the control treatments (PC and NC), improved feed conversion (P < 0.05) in early stages, and improved diet digestibility (P < 0.05) compared with the PC. Treatment with NC150 and NC200 resulted in greater carcass weights (P < 0.05) than treatment with the PC. NC100 led to a greater carcass yield than PC (P < 0.05), and NC150 resulted in a greater loin eye area than PC (P < 0.05). No differences (P > 0.05) in the blood parameters or salivary cortisol levels were found. Regarding economic viability, proteases increased the profitability, with NC150 leading to the best results. Thus, the use of aspartic proteases is recommended to improve performance and further facilitate pork production.

Effect of apple pomace degraded by Pleurotus ostreatus on growth and meat quality parameters of broiler chickens

The objective of this work was to compare the growth and physicochemical parameters of the meat of broiler chickens (Gallus gallus), fed with a supplemented diet (SD) consisting of 3% pleurotin, compared to those obtained when using a traditional diet (CD). Pleurotin is the remaining material from the biodegradation of substrates such as apple pomace used to cultivate the Pleurotus ostreatus fungus. The experience lasted 48 days and in the first eight days, the birds were divided into two groups of 24 individuals, one group for each treatment. On day 12, each initial group was subdivided into four experimental units (replicates) of 6 chickens each. The growth parameters measured were total weight gain (TWG), final live weight (FLW), carcass weight (CW), average daily gain (ADG) in weight, and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Physicochemical parameters such as pH, water content (WC), CIE color, total fat (TF), and fatty acid composition (FAC) were also measured. Statistical analysis was carried out through the t-Student independent samples test. FLW was on average 7.6% significantly higher with SD than with CD, however, no difference was detected in CW. The total ADG was 7.4%, significantly higher with SD while the FCR was 32.0% lower with SD than with CD. No significant differences were found in any of the meat quality parameters measured for the same piece. Despite these latest results in terms of meat quality, it is concluded that the increase found in total ADG and FLW, and an improvement in FCR values with SD favor the use of this amendment in chicken rearing. In addition, the introduction of the by-product of the juice industries of the Río Negro Valley in other production cycles, such as edible mushrooms production and a supplement for bird diets (pleurotin), promotes a circular bioeconomic mechanism.

Evaluation of Carcass, Growth Performance, Hematological and Biochemical Parameters of Broiler Chickens Fed Additive of Onion Bulb Peel Powder

The study evaluated the effect of the powder of onion bulb peel waste (Allium cepa) as feed additives on growth performance, blood profile and carcass features of broiler chickens. A total of 150-day old Arbo acre strains of broiler chicks were randomly allocated into five treatments group with 30 birds in each treatment with three replicates of 10 birds each. The birds were reared on the floor of a pen partitioned into experimental units. The study was conducted in two phases; starter phase (0-28 day) and finisher phase (28-56 day). A basal experimental diet was formulated for the broiler chickens and varying levels of onion bulb peel powder was added as a supplement at 0mg/kg (control), 25mg/kg, 50mg/kg, 75mg/kg and 100mg/kg in diets 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. The results obtained in this study revealed that there was significant difference (p&lt;0.05) in feed intake, body weight, daily weight gain, feed conversion ratio, hematological and bio-chemical parameters, carcass weight, non-carcass weight, percentage of carcass cut-part relative to the dressed weight and percentage non carcass relative to live weight between treatment diets. Onion bulb peel powder at 100mg/kg enhanced growth performance, reduced total blood cholesterol, triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein, increased the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and improved carcass yield of the birds. Since the feeding of onion bulb peel powder up to 100mg/kg as feed additives did not constitute nutritional disorder or any adverse effect on heamatological parameters of broiler chickens, it can be concluded that onion bulb peel powder at this level of inclusion is good for broiler chicken production.

Nutritional value of meat from selected neotropical reptiles

This is the second part of a two-part review. The first part focused on the nutritive value of meat and meat products of selected neo-tropical mammals with the potential for domestication. The objective of this current review was to investigate the nutritional qualities and carcass traits of selected neotropical reptiles compared to domestic species, focusing on the spectacled caiman, iguana, tegu, and yellow anaconda. Carcass weight analysis revealed that the spectacled caiman and male iguana were efficient converters of live weight to edible carcass weight, with higher yields than other reptiles. Among domestic species, pigs and chickens showed higher carcass yields compared to cattle and lamb. Moisture content in reptile meat was generally higher than in domestic animals, impacting texture and juiciness. Protein content was lower in reptiles but still contributed to daily requirements, while fat content, though generally lower in reptiles, could impact flavor and tenderness. Cholesterol levels were lower in reptiles, particularly the yellow anaconda, making them potentially healthier options for those with cardiovascular concerns. Fatty acid composition analysis indicated varying levels of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, with potential cardiovascular health benefits in reptile meats. Amino acid content, though lower in reptiles compared to domestic species, provided essential building blocks for various physiological functions. Overall, the study highlighted the nutritional value and potential health benefits of including neotropical reptile meat in the human diet, especially as alternative protein sources.

Identifying Meat from Grazing or Feedlot Yaks Using Visible and Near-infrared Spectroscopy with Chemometrics

The quality of meat can differ between grazing and feedlot yaks. The present study examined whether spectral fingerprints by visible and near-infrared (Vis-NIR) spectroscopy and chemo-metrics could be employed to identify the meat of grazing and feedlot yaks. Thirty-six 3.5−year−old castrated male yaks (164 ± 8.38 kg) were divided into grazing and feedlot yaks. After 5 months on treatment, liveweight, carcass weight, and dressing percentage were greater in the feedlot than in grazing yaks. The grazing yaks had greater protein content but lesser fat content than feedlot yaks. Principal component analysis (PCA) was able to identify the meat of the two groups to a great extent. Using either partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) or the soft independent modeling of class analogies (SIMCA) classification, the meat could be differentiated between the groups. Both the original and processed spectral data had a high discrimination percentage, especially the PLS-DA classification algorithm, with 100% discrimination in the 400–2500 nm band. The spectral preprocessing methods can improve the discrimination percentage, especially for the SIMCA classification. It was concluded that the method can be employed to identify meat from grazing or feedlot yaks. The unerring consistency across different wavelengths and data treatments highlights the model's robustness and the potential use of NIR spectroscopy combined with chemometric techniques for meat classification. PLS-DA's accurate classification model is crucial for the unique evaluation of yak meat in the meat industry, ensuring product traceability and meeting consumer expectations for the authenticity and quality of yak meat raised in different ways.

Enhancing Growth and Gut Health in Squabs: The Impact of Fermented Mixed Feed.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of fermented mixed feed (FMF) (soybean meal-rapeseed meal-corn bran (6:3:1, m/m/m)) on the growth performance, intestinal microbial communities, and metabolomes of squabs. One hundred and eighty 1-day-old squabs were randomly allocated to two groups, each containing six replicates of fifteen squabs cared for by 60 pairs of breeding pigeons secreting crop milk. Each pair of breeding pigeons cared for three squabs. The control group was fed a basal diet, while the experimental group was fed the basal diet containing 5% FMF. The results showed that daily weight gain, carcass weight, villus height, and the mRNA level of ZO-1 in the ileum were increased in the birds fed FMF compared to the control squabs (p < 0.05). Greater abundances of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacteria, and Bacillus as well as fewer harmful bacteria (i.e., Enterococcus, Veillonella, and Corynebacterium) in the ilea of squabs fed FMF. Six differential metabolites were identified in the FMF-treated squabs; one metabolite was increased (ω-salicoyisalicin) and five were decreased (3-benzoyloxy-6-oxo-12-ursen-28-oic acid, estradiol-17-phenylpropionate, aminotriazole, phosphatidyl ethanolamine (22:6/0:0), and 1-arachidonoylglycerophosphoinositol). Positive correlations were observed between the abundance of Lactobacillus and villus height. Overall, FMF treatment improved both growth and intestinal health in pigeons, suggesting potential benefits for pigeon production.

Influences of a Supplemental Blend of Essential Oils Plus 25-Hydroxy-Vit-D3 and Zilpaterol Hydrochloride (β2 Agonist) on Growth Performance and Carcass Measures of Feedlot Lambs Finished under Conditions of High Ambient Temperature.

Forty-eight Pelibuey × Katahdin male intact lambs (25.12 ± 3.79 kg LW) were used in a 70-d growing-finishing trial. Dietary treatments consisted of total mixed corn-based diet supplemented with: (1) no feed additives (Control); (2) 150 mg of essential oils blend plus 0.10 mg of 25-hydroxy-Vit-D3/kg diet offered throughout the 70-d experimental period (EOD3); (3) Control diet fed during the first 35 days and zilpaterol hydrochloride (ZH) supplementation at 6 mg/kg diet offered during the final 35 days of the experiment (32 days with ZH with a withdrawal 3-d before harvest), and (4) basal diet supplemented with EOD3 during first 35 days finishing, and EOD3 in combination with ZH (EOD3 + ZH) during the subsequent 32-days with ZH withdrawal 3 days before harvest. The temperature-humidity index during the experiment averaged 80.4 ± 3.2. There were no treatment interactions (p > 0.20) on growth performance and carcass measures. Supplemental EOD3 did not affect (p = 0.43) dry matter intake (DMI), but increased (p < 0.01) carcass adjusted average daily gain (ADG, 9.2%), gain efficiency (GF, 6.7%), and observed vs. expected dietary net energy for maintenance (NEm, 4.8%) and for gain (NEg, 6.4%). Supplemental ZH did not affect dry matter intake (DMI, p = 0.50) but increased (p < 0.01) carcass adjusted ADG (14.5%), GF (13%) and observed vs. expected dietary NEm (9%) and NEg (11.7%). Compared to control lambs, the combination of both additives increased ADG (24.9%), GF (21.2%), and observed vs. expected dietary NEm and NEg (14.2% and 18.9%, respectively). There were no treatment interactions on carcass characteristics, visceral organ mass, or on gene expression of IGF1, IGF2 and mTOR in longissimus muscle (LM). Supplemental EOD3 increased hot carcass weight (HCW; 4.0%, p < 0.01) but did not affect other carcass measures. Supplemental EOD3 decreased (3%, p = 0.03) intestine mass weight (g intestine/kg empty body weight). Supplemental ZH increased HCW (6%, p < 0.01), dressing percentage (1.7%, p = 0.04), and LM area (9.7%, p < 0.01), and decreased kidney-pelvic-fat percentage (16.2%, p < 0.01), fat thickness (14.7%, p = 0.03), and visceral fat. Compared to controls, the combination of EOD3 with ZH increased HCW (10.2%). It is concluded that growth performance responses to supplemental EOD3 and ZH are additive. Both supplements can be fed in combination without detrimental effects on expected benefits when fed separately. In addition, ZH supplementation improves carcass traits.

161 Effect of replacement of dried distiller’s grains plus solubles with increasing extruded and expelled soybean meal on feedlot performance and carcass characteristics in finishing steers

Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of increasing inclusion of extruded and expelled soybean meal (EESBM) as a partial replacement of dried distiller’s grains plus solubles (DDGS) feedlot performance and carcass characteristics in steers. Steers [n = 144; initial shrunk body weight (BW) = 399 ± 27 kg] were assigned to 1 of 18 pens (8 steers/pen). Pens were randomly assigned to one of three dietary treatments (6 pens/treatment): 100% DDGS included at 15% of diet dry matter (DM; NO-SBM), a blend of 70% DDGS and 30% SBM included at 15% of diet DM (30-EESBM), and a blend of 40% DDGS and 60% SBM included at 15% of diet DM (60-EESBM) in a randomized complete block design with pen as experimental unit. Data were analyzed as a RCBD with fixed effects of treatment and random effect of block (location within feedyard). Linear and quadratic contrasts were used to assess EESBM level effects. All growth performance results were determined on a carcass-adjusted [hot carcass weight (HCW)/0.625] basis. Supplementation of EESBM increased (P ≤ 0.04) final BW and average daily gain (ADG) by 1.6 and 3.8%, respectively. Additionally, dietary treatment tended to result in increased (P ≤ 0.07) DMI and improved feed conversion by 1.2 and 2.6%. Final BW, ADG and gain to feed ratio (G:F) increased (linear; P ≤ 0.03) with increasing inclusion of EESBM in replacement of DDGS. Dry matter intake (DMI) tended to increase quadratically (P = 0.10) with increasing EESBM inclusion. No differences (P ≥ 0.37) were observed in any other carcass-adjusted growth performance responses as well as apparent utilization of dietary net energy (P ≥ 0.15). Increasing inclusion of EESBM resulted in a linear increase (P = 0.02) in HCW. A tendency for a linear increase (P = 0.09) was noted for empty body fat% with greater EESBM inclusion. No other differences (P ≥ 0.12) were observed in carcass performance, distribution of yield and quality grades, and lung and liver health outcomes. In conclusion, feeding EESBM as a partial replacement of DDGS resulted in greater DMI, ADG and carcass weight, without negatively influencing measures of carcass quality or cutability. Under the conditions of this experiment, the NE value of EESBM is 8.5% greater than DDGS.

247 Evaluating the use of soybean hulls on growth performance, carcass composition, and digestibility when fed to grow-finish pigs

Abstract The addition of fiber to grow-finish diets is commonly utilized in swine production formulation as energy costs increase. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of feeding soybean hulls (SBH) at increasing levels to grow-finish pigs on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients. Utilizing 192 grower pigs [PIC 337×1050, initial body weight (BW) = 21.99 ± 2.75 kg] that were randomly assigned to split sexed pens (n = 12 pens/treatment), pens were assigned to one of four dietary treatments and fed over three feeding phases for the estimated BW ranges of 22 to 50 kg, 50 to 86 kg, and 86 to 127 kg. Diets were formulated to represent conventional corn and soybean meal diets, containing increasing levels of SBH at: 1) 0% SBH (0%); 2) 7.5% SBH (7.5%); 3) 15% SBH (15%); and 4) 22.5% SBH (22.5%). Within phase, diets had equal SID Lys:ME and energy was allowed to float. Individual BW and pen feed disappearance were collected for each phase to calculate pen average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and feed efficiency gain to feed ratio (G:F). On d 56 of study and during phase 2, 32 gilts (n = 8) were placed into individual metabolism crates, where total urine and feces were collected for 72 h to measure ATTD of gross energy (GE), nitrogen (N), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF), then returned to original pens. At the completion of study, carcass weight, backfat depth, and loin depth were collected. Data were analyzed with the fixed effects of dietary treatment by ANOVA, linear, and quadratic contrasts. Pen served as the experimental unit for performance and carcass characteristics and pig as the experimental unit for ATTD analyses. Overall, as SBH increased from 0% to 22.5%, ADG tended to decrease (linear P = 0.060) with no difference in ADFI (P &amp;gt; 0.05), resulting in an overall decrease in G:F (0.38, 0.37, 0.36, 0.35; linear P &amp;lt; 0.001; 0, 7.5, 15 and 22.5% SBH, respectively). Final BW tended to decrease (linear P = 0.069) and carcass weight decreased (102.9, 102.7, 99.7, and 96.5 kg, linear P &amp;lt; 0.001) as SBH increased in diet. Carcass fat depth (P = 0.014) and loin depth (P = 0.006) linearly decreased with increasing levels of SBH in the diet. Increasing levels of SBH from 0% to 22.5% decreased ATTD of GE and N (linear P &amp;lt; 0.001) and tended to increase ATTD NDF and ADF (linear P = 0.056 and P = 0.073, respectively). Altogether, these data suggest increasing dietary SBH in grow-finish pig diets decreases growth efficiency and the digestibility of GE and N. Further, feeding high inclusion rates of SBH negatively impacts carcass yield, backfat and loin depth.

50 Feeding a multi-carbohydrase improves mortality, morbidity and variability of growing pigs fed varying levels of dried distiller’s grains with solubles

Abstract The objective was to determine the effects of Rovabio Advance 10 P, a multi-carbohydrase, on growth performance, mortality, and morbidity of growing pigs fed 15% or 35% dried distiller’s grains with solubles (DDGS). In the trial, 1,220 DNA pigs were fed from 32 kg to 134 kg body weight (BW). Four diets were fed: 15% DDGS (LO), 15% DDGS with Rovabio Advance (LO+), 35% DDGS (HI), and 35% DDGS with Rovabio Advance (HI+). Each pen had approximately 30 pigs each with 10 pens per dietary treatment. Pig BW and feed were measured as were the number and BW of dead pigs (mortality) and other pig removals (morbidity). Pigs were harvested beginning on d 105 and weekly thereafter through d 126. No significant (P &amp;gt; 0.16) interactions between DDGS level and Rovabio Advance were observed. Feeding greater levels of DDGS tended to reduce average daily gain (ADG), final BW and carcass weight (P &amp;lt; 0.09) and reduced mortality and morbidity (P = 0.1). Greater levels of DDGS also reduced cost of gain and improved income over feed (P &amp;lt; 0.04). Feeding Rovabio Advance reduced mortality and morbidity (P = 0.08), reduced standard deviation of carcass weight (P = 0.02), improved carcass price (P = 0.02), and improved income over feed (P = 0.02). Feeding greater levels DDGS slowed growth rate but improved cost of gain and profitability. Rovabio Advance improved mortality and morbidity and reduced variability resulting in improved profitability.

PSVI-1 Backgrounding and finishing systems for cattle fed corn silages and corn grains differing in amylase expression

Abstract Amylase is a key enzyme involved in the hydrolysis of starch, which typically constitutes the predominant source of energy in feedlot cattle diets. Performance of cattle during the backgrounding phase can influence performance during the subsequent finishing phase. Our objective was to assess growth performance of backgrounding steers fed diets that contained combinations of corn silage (S) and steam-flaked corn (G) from hybrids with high amylase expression (Enogen corn; E; Syngenta Seeds, LLC) or common corn hybrid (C), as well as subsequent finishing performance, carcass characteristics, and liver abscess incidence when fed G produced from the same hybrids. Crossbred steers (n = 911; 306 ± 8 kg initial body weight) were assigned randomly to one of four backgrounding treatments with 12 replicates in a randomized complete block experiment using a factorial treatment arrangement. Factor 1 consisted of two corn silage hybrids (ES or CS), and factor 2 consisted of two SFC hybrids (EG or CG). In the subsequent finishing phase, animals were assigned to one of two treatments consisting of two grain hybrids (EG or CG) with 24 replicates per treatment. Backgrounding diets (dry basis) contained 20.1% flaked corn and 41.6% corn silage, and finishing diets contained 81.5% flaked corn with triticale silage as a common roughage source. There was no three-way interaction for measures of interest, and no differences among treatment combinations with respect to average daily gain (ADG) or incidence of abscessed livers (P &amp;gt; 0.10). Steers fed CG during the backgrounding phase ate more than steers fed EG (P = 0.04), thus leading to improved overall efficiency of steers fed EG in the backgrounding phase compared with their counterparts fed CG (P &amp;lt; 0.01; Table 1). Overall efficiency tended to be greater for cattle fed CG during the finishing phase (P = 0.06) compared with cattle fed EG during the finishing phase. There was a tendency for interaction between G fed in the backgrounding and G fed in the finishing phase for hot carcass weight (P = 0.07), such that steers fed the same hybrid in both phases had greater carcass weight compared with those fed different hybrids in the backgrounding and finishing phases. Type of grain fed in the backgrounding and finishing phases, but not silage, impacted overall system efficiency.

PSV-7 greatOPlus (extruded blend of flaxseed and Nannochloropsis oculata biomass) improves finishing cattle performance and carcass characteristics

Abstract Our objective was to investigate impact of feeding greatOPlus (GOP), an extruded mixture of flaxseed and Nannochloropsis microalgae biomass (NBO3 Technologies LLC; Manhattan, KS) on feedlot cattle performance and carcass characteristics. Yearling steers (n = 700; 374 ± 8.2 kg initial body weight) were blocked by initial body weight and assigned randomly, within block, to 28 feedlot pens containing 25 animals/pen. Cattle were vaccinated against viral and clostridial pathogens and treated for internal and external parasites (Bovishield Gold 5, Ultrabac 7 Somubac, and Dectomax injectable; Zoetis Animal Health), and implanted with a combination implant (Component TE-200; Elanco USA). The control diet (CON) consisted of 58.3% steam-flaked corn, 20% wet corn gluten feed, 2.56% soybean meal, and 4.17% vitamin/mineral/feed additive premix. For the GOP diet, a portion of the corn and all of the soybean meal were replaced with 10% GOP (dry basis) to create isonitrogenous diets. Cattle were fed once daily, ad libitum. After 175 d on feed, animals were weighed and transported to a commercial abattoir for harvest. Animal performance measurements included average daily gain (ADG), dry matter intake (DMI), and gain to feed ratio (G:F). Hot carcass weight (HCW) and incidence of abscessed livers were assessed on the day of harvest, and marbling score, 12th rib fat thickness, longissimus muscle area, and USDA yield and quality grades were determined following 48 hours of refrigeration. Cattle fed GOP had greater DMI and ADG (P&amp;lt; 0.05) compared with cattle fed CON, but G:F was not affected by treatment (P &amp;gt; 0.10). Cattle fed GOP had greater HCW compared with those fed CON (422.8 vs 409.5 kg; P &amp;lt; 0.01) and tended to produce more Prime and Choice carcasses (87.4 vs 83.0%; P = 0.11) with greater 12th rib backfat (1.55 vs 1.49 cm; P &amp;lt; 0.02) and greater yield grades (2.91 vs 2.75; P &amp;lt; 0.01). Marbling score (488 vs 491), longissimus muscle area (94.1 vs 93.4 cm2) and liver abscess incidence (12 vs 16% for CON and GOP, respectively) were unaffected by treatment (P &amp;gt; 0.10). Carcass values were calculated using base prices, premiums, and discounts published by USDA, and were greater for cattle fed GOP compared with cattle fed the control diet ($2,122 vs $2,059; P &amp;lt; 0.01). Including greatOPlus at 10% of the diet dry matter improved cattle performance, largely as a result of its impact on DMI and ADG.

23 The effects of dietary net energy level on grow-finish performance and carcass characteristics of intact male market pigs managed with Improvest

Abstract Improvest is a gonadotropin releasing factor (GnRF) analogue-diphtheria toxoid conjugate product approved for temporary suppression of testicular function and reduction of boar taint in intact male pigs (Zoetis Canada Inc.). Objectives for this study were to determine the effects of dietary net energy (NE) level during the grow-finish period on live performance and carcass characteristics of intact male pigs managed with Improvest/immunological castration (IC) when compared with physically castrated (PC) male pigs. The 101-d study began when 1,008 pigs (504 intact male pigs and 504 PC male pigs; 10 wk old) were allocated by body weight to 48 pens with 21 intact males or 21 PC males per pen. Three dietary NE treatments were fed to pigs using five dietary phases to provide an average of 2,212 kcal/kg (Low NE), 2,337 kcal/kg (Medium NE), or 2,462 kcal/kg (High NE). Dietary programs were formulated according to standardized ileal digestible lysine requirements of IC males or PC males. The experiment was designed and analyzed as a 2 × 3 factorial with main effects of Improvest management and NE. For the overall study period, there were no significant interactions between Improvest management and NE (P ≥ 0.19) for average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG), or gain to feed ratio (G:F; Table). There were also no significant interactions between Improvest management and NE (P ≥ 0.06) for carcass characteristics. Immunologically castrated male pigs consumed less feed (5.3% less ADFI; P &amp;lt; 0.01), grew faster (5.1% greater ADG; P &amp;lt; 0.01), and were more efficient (11.2% greater G:F; P &amp;lt; 0.01) compared with PC male pigs. Hot carcass weight (HCW) did not differ (P = 0.16) between IC males and PC males (attributed to 1.6 percentage unit less dressing percentage for IC males; P &amp;lt; 0.01); however, IC males were leaner (0.9 mm less backfat and 0.65% greater predicted lean yield; P &amp;lt; 0.01) compared with PC males. For the overall study period, pigs fed Low NE and Medium NE diets consumed more feed than pigs fed High NE diets, and pigs fed Low NE diets grew slower than pigs fed Medium NE and High NE diets. This resulted in pigs fed Low NE diets having 4.4% less G:F than pigs fed Medium NE and 8.6% less G:F than pigs fed High NE diets (P &amp;lt; 0.01). Pigs fed Low NE had 3.0 kg lighter (P &amp;lt; 0.01) HCW compared with Medium NE, while High NE had intermediate HCW that did not differ from the other two treatments. Overall, typical Improvest response levels were sustained for each of the NE treatments in this study; however, consideration should be provided to the known production impacts of low NE diets when male market pigs are managed with Improvest.

65 Effect of two different implant programs on growth performance and carcass characteristics in beef steers fed to three differing harvest endpoints

Abstract Two implant programs (Merck Animal Health, DeSoto, KS and Zoetis, Parsippany, NJ) and 3 d on feed (DOF) endpoints were used to evaluate growth performance and carcass characteristics of finishing beef steers. Beef steers [n = 480; initial body weight (BW) = 402; SEM = 2.4 kg] were assigned to treatment pens (10 steers/pen) with pen (n = 48 pens total) as the experimental unit. Treatments were arranged as a 2 x 3 factorial including implant program: 1) a single Revalor-XS (200 mg trenbolone acetate and 40 mg estradiol-17β total) on d 0 (XS) compared with 2) Synovex-Choice (100 mg trenbolone acetate and 14 mg estradiol benzoate) on d 0 and re-implanted with a Synovex-ONE Feedlot (200 mg trenbolone acetate and 28 mg estradiol benzoate) 70 d later (CHSOF) and harvest endpoint: 1) 162 DOF, 2) 183 DOF, or 3) 204 DOF. Both implant groups were removed from their pens on the day of reimplantation. Data were analyzed as a RCBD. Final BW was calculated as HCW/0.625. An implant × DOF (P ≤ 0.04) interaction was noted for gain to feed ratio (G:F), REA, final BW adjusted to 28% estimated empty body fatness (AFBW), and USDA quality grade distribution, a tendency for an interaction was observed for final BW, average daily gain (ADG), HCW, and dressing percentage (P ≤ 0.09), no other interactions were noted for any traits evaluated (P ≥ 0.17). Steers from CHSOF/162 had increased G:F by 4.1 to 6.5% compared with others (P ≤ 0.05). Steers from XS/204 had greater REA by 3% to 10% (P ≤ 0.05) compared with all other treatments and greater AFBW by 3% to 7% (P ≤ 0.05), compared with all other treatments except CHSOF/204. Steers from XS had a greater proportion of carcasses grading USDA Prime at 162 and 183 DOF compared with CHSOF. As a result of increased DOF, the XS/204 and CHSOF/204 steers had greater final BW and HCW compared with all other treatments (P ≤ 0.05), steers from XS/183 had greater HCW than XS/162 and CHSOF/162; however, CHSOF/183 did not differ from CHSOF/162 (P ≤ 0.05). Steers from CHSOF/162 had greater ADG by 5.8% compared with CHSOF/183 (P = 0.05), while all others were intermediate. Dressing percentage was the greatest for XS/204 and least for CHSOF/183 (P ≤ 0.05). Cattle from XS had increased (P &amp;lt; 0.01) DMI by 2.6%. As DOF increased, carcass-adjusted final BW increased while ADG decreased (linear; P = 0.05). As DOF increased, REA and AFBW increased (P &amp;lt; 0.01). Increasing DOF, increased (P &amp;lt; 0.01) USDA yield grade 4 and 5 carcasses and decreased yield grade 2 and 3 carcasses. Implant strategy had a marginal influence on growth performance and carcass characteristics; however, as DOF increased carcass weights, rib fat, and ribeye area increased.