Influence of age and sex on the CLA and other fatty acids content in roe deer meat (Capreolus capreolus L.).

Meat is an important source of animal protein but, at the same time, it includes saturated fatty acids, which makes it a potential cause of different cardiovascular diseases and still little is known about influence of age and sex on these parameters in roe deer muscles. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of age and sex on the CLA and other fatty acids content in the musculus longissimus lumborum in 67 roe deer (Capreolus capreolus L.). In the meat from the oldest individuals a higher content of CLA was noted (89.76 [mg/kg]) when compared to the fawns (42 [mg/kg]). In this research meat from roe deer does showed in general a higher percentage proportion of SFAs and MUFAs, but lower of PUFAs, than the meat from bucks. These results may provide an important source of information for consumers of roe deer meat because of differences between CLA and other fatty acids content depending on age and sex of the animals. Meat from roebucks is the most advantageous for dietary purposes.