Desempenho e qualidade da carne de novilhas Nelore e F1 Nelore x Rubia Gallega suplementadas com cromo picolinato

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate performance, carcass and meat characteristics of Nellore (NEL) and Rubia Gallega x Nellore (NRG) heifers supplemented with Cromium Picolinate (CrP). A total of 28 animals were kept in 2 paddocks containing Brachiaria brizantha

cv. Marandu, separated according to supplementation (with and without CrP). For physical- chemical analysis were used samples from muscle Longissimus thoracis, collected between

12th and 13th ribs, which were evaluated drip losses, pH, fat thickness, color, cooking losses, tenderness and chemical composition. The statistical design adopted was completely randomized in a factorial scheme 2 x 2. The genetic group, showed differences for the body weight, hot carcass weight and dressing percentage, with superiority for NRG animals (386.48 kg, 209.33 kg; 54.09%) versus NEL animals (378.59 kg, 203.93 kg; 53.85%). The note to the fat cover in NRG animals was lower than in NEL animals (2.71 x 3.35). For meat traits were lower fat thickness in NRG animals (3.25 mm) than in NEL animals (7.84 mm), and drip losses were higher in NRG animals when compared NEL animals (9.45% vs. 5.68%). NRG heifers have a better performance and lower fat cover compared NEL animals. Supplementation with PCr not influencing the performance of heifers in the finishing phase and carcass and meat traits.