Meat Quality and Carcass Characteristics of Lambs Born to Supplemented Hamari Ewes, Sudan

Background and Objectives: In the Sudanese economy, the livestock sector plays an important role, with sheep producing lamb and mutton mainly for local consumption and exportation. As a result, feed supplementation together with natural grazing could improve production in terms of quality and quantity. Therefore, this study investigated carcass characteristics and meat quality of lambs born to Sudanese desert ewes that were fed with concentrated supplements in the open range. Materials and Methods: Ninety ewes were randomly divided into three groups A, B and C (n = 30). Before being introduced to the rams, groups A and B received concentrated supplements for 30 days, while group C (control) did not receive concentrated supplements. Lambs from each group grazed on natural pasture during the day and received a concentrated supplement at mealtime. Weaned lambs born to groups A and B received concentrated supplements ad libitum for 60 days, while lambs born to group C were only allowed to graze on natural pasture. Thereafter all lambs were slaughtered to measure their carcass qualities. Results: The slaughter and carcass (hot, cold and half) weights and the empty body weight were heavier (p<0.05) in all treatment groups, with no significant differences. All groups had no significant differences in dressing percentage and wholesale cuts. There was an increase (p<0.001) in muscle composition percentages in all treatment groups. There was an increase in the protein and fat percentages and a decrease in the moisture in all treatment groups. Conclusion: It was concluded that providing concentrated supplements to lambs and ewes improved the lamb's meat quality.