Discriminant analysis using fatty acids profile, stable carbon isotopes and tocopherols content as tool for feeding system prediction in Iberian pigs

Aim of study: The application three analytical methods (fatty acids: FA, tocopherols: TOC, and isotope ratio: ISO) to distinguish the feeding type received by Iberian pigs during fattening stage.Area This distinction is very important for labelling high-quality products in Quercus forest located on southwest Peninsula, where several production systems coexist.Material methods: Discriminant analysis fat samples with unknown background obtained from commercial was applied. feasibility combination method determine authentication studied different system: free-range acorn pastures (BE); plus feeds (RE); open-air (CA); standard (CE).Main results: In a first methods, overall success rate 60.1% 49.7% ISO 49.3% TOC. When some batches were reclassified attending those previous results additional information available about farm characteristics, TOC analyses had 70% four categories, whereas FA showed 40.5%, attributable use high-oleic diets. predictions improved combination. ISO+TOC achieved 84.1% prediction. it reduced just two categories (acorn vs non-acorn), reached 95% FA+TOC ISO+TOC.Research highlights: these as complementary tool quality controls highly recommended avoid undesirable misclassifications.