PREDICTION OF FAT-TO-PROTEIN RATIO IN LAMB CARCASSES

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
A study of relationships between weights or simple measures of body proportions and fat-to-protein ratio in lamb carcasses (ether extract-to-N × 6.25 in completely ground carcass side) showed several positive relationships of practical importance. Width of carcass at shoulders was the most useful criterion (r = 0.68) for predicting fat-to-protein ratio, followed by carcass weight, body weight, heart girth, and carcass depth with r values of 0.64, 0.60, 0.58, and 0.52 respectively. While these relationships lead to prediction equations that are not sufficiently precise for most scientific investigations, they are sufficiently high to warrant consideration when assessing the value of such measurements in carcass evaluation and in selection. Leg length, carcass length, and carcass width at hips had lower relationships to fat-to-protein ratio in carcasses, which were of doubtful value even for practical purposes. Area of eye of lean showed no relationship to fat-to-protein ratio.