Carcass and meat quality characteristics of the progeny of two swine sire lines reared under differing environmental conditions

The objective of this study was to compare the carcass and meat quality of pigs of two sire lines (A vs B) reared in either a spacious or crowded environment. A total of 128 pigs (barrows and gilts) were used in the study. Animals were slaughtered at 120 kg live weight. Dressing percentage was greater for line A in the spacious but not the crowded environment and line A had a greater loin eye area than line B. Compared to line B, the longissimus from line A had lower pH, higher L* and b* values, and was judged to be paler and softer with a lower marbling fat content. Longissimus L* values were lower for pigs reared in the crowded compared to the spacious environment. Longissimus drip loss was greater for line A compared to line B in the spacious but not the crowded environment. This study highlights genetic differences in pork quality and suggests rearing environment effects that warrant further study.