Effect of farming system on meat traits of native Massese suckling lamb

Growth performance and meat quality traits of 24 Massese suckling lambs reared up to 69 days age in different farming systems were evaluated. Three groups considered: stall (S) indoors fed concentrate hay; pasture (P) outdoor semi free-range (F) during the night at day, concentrate, hay herbage. The remained constantly with their dams for whole period, having thus always access mothers’ milk. Animals weights recorded, and, after slaughtering, carcase considered. Fatty acids composition chemical/physical parameters milk analysed. Lambs growth was similar first 30 days, while afterwards differences emerged: P recorded worst values reaching slaughter weight 14.6 kg versus 22.3 22.7 S F group, respectively. Carcase resulted less fat a lower lean/bone ratio than other (1.8, 2.1 2.3 P, F, respectively). ewes’ had effect on lambs’ profile, probably because they continued suck until slaughter. Moreover, also system affected fatty profile meat: grazing animals, especially showed highest PUFA lowest SFA percentage best human health. As regards physical traits, more coloured meat, tender others.HighlightsTwo-month-old lamb is marketable product.Suckled later ages.Pasture diet increases content meat.