Effect of feeding sugarcane press mud on carcass traits and meat quality characteristics of lambs

AIM: To explore the possibilities of feeding unconventional agro-industrial byproduct for livestock production. Sugarcane press-mud (SPM), is a byproduct derived from sugarcane industry, which is rich in protein as well as minerals. The effects of dietary inclusion of SPM at different levels on the carcass characteristics of lambs were evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS: SPM was incorporated in concentrate mixture at different levels 0% (SP(0) - concentrate mixture without SPM [Control diet]), 10% (SP(10) - concentrate mixture containing 10% SPM) and 20% (SP(20) - concentrate mixture containing 20% SPM). The concentrate mixtures were fed along with wheat straw for 180 days. At the end of the experimental period, six lambs per group were slaughtered to evaluate carcass and meat quality characteristics. RESULTS: No significant difference was observed in dressing percentage on pre-slaughter weight or empty body weight basis of lambs fed different levels of SPM incorporated diets. Likewise carcass weight, carcass length, and wholesale cuts appeared to have similar values among groups. The yield of visceral organs, chemical composition, and sensory attributes were not statistically affected by inclusion of SPM in the diets except juiciness of control group meat was significantly (p<0.05) higher than treatment group (SP(20)). CONCLUSION: The SPM can be incorporated in the diet of lambs up to the level of 20% without affecting the carcass characteristics of lambs.