Does early weaning of improved Jezersko-Solčava x Texel lambs affect growth performance, carcass traits and meat quality?

Abstract

A total of 24 crossbred Improved Jezersko-Solčava x Texel (JSRT) lambs were included to investigate the effect of lamb age at weaning on growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality. Lambs were randomly divided into two groups according to weaning age (early at 50 days vs. late at 75 days). Both early-weaned (6 males, 6 females) and late-weaned (6 males, 6 females) groups were fed with the same hay and concentrates ad libitum until slaughter at an average weight of 36.5 kg. The results indicated that the carcasses of early-weaned male lambs had a lower fat content than the late-weaned male lambs, however, there were no differences in carcass fatness between early- and late-weaned females. These results confirm the differences in the temporal dynamics of fat deposition between the sexes. Early weaning shortened the period from birth to slaughter by 11 days. Early weaning resulted in higher live weight gain in JSRT lambs compared to late weaning, primarily due to differences in post-weaning growth. There was no influence of weaning age on meat colour parameters, ultimate pH and sensory traits, except tenderness. Early weaning of male lambs can be recommended as it results in carcasses with less fat, without negative effects on meat or sensory quality traits, and could be economically viable for breeders.