Carcass characteristics and breast meat quality in fast-, medium- and slow-growing chickens

The aim of the present study was to compare carcass characteristics and meat quality fast- (Ross 308), medium- (Hubbard JA757) slow-growing (ISA Dual) chickens (n = 1 980). When reached an average live weight 2 kg, 40 birds (males females, : 1) each genotype were randomly selected slaughtered for analysis. Pectoralis major (PM) muscle samples taken determine physical chemical parameters quality. medium-growing genotypes had higher (+3.24% +3.84%, respectively) dressing out percentages than chickens. As expected, breast percentage significantly decreased in order fast growth > medium slow growth. abdominal fat lowest Ross 308 chickens, but JA757 ISA Dual did not differ. For edible organs, heavier hearts livers In contrast, showed gizzards. Genotype dramatically affected composition PM muscle. exhibited a proportion dry matter protein lower ether extract cholesterol content with intermediate values group ash groups. terms parameters, lightness yellowness redness, pH 24, cooking loss those other genotypes. Concerning all genotypes, shear force increased from conclusion, this found difference between Although compared more favourable nutritional properties.