Immunocastration on performance and meat quality of Bos indicus (Nellore) cattle under different nutritional systems

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of immunocastration on animal growth, carcass traits, and meat quality Nellore cattle receiving or not Ionophore supplementation at pasture with concentrate (semi-feedlot). first experiment (Pasture) was carried out during rainy season, while second (supplemented = Semi-feedlot) conducted dry season. In each assessment, 60 males were allocated into three treatments, in a completely randomized design: non-castrated, immunocastrated (anti-gonadotropin-releasing hormone vaccine), animals ionophore. highly energetic supplemented diet prepared using 85 % corn 10 soybean meal 1 body weight, ionophore provided salt containing 1,650 mg kg−1 lasalocid. After slaughter, carcasses graded, Longissimus thoracis et lumborum samples collected for analysis. non-castrated exhibited more significant final weight hot than those regardless (p < 0.05). had less fat cover marbling castrated animals. A high incidence dark cutting beef verified produced tenderer beef, mainly rearing. conclusion, production system supplementation, an adequate choice generate high-quality meat, since it increased improved tenderness. However, limitations regarding growth should be estimated.