Production and characterization of 6-month-old calves, 8-month-old calves and older animals produced in France

摘要

Objectives - European regulations have recently set the veal calf maximum age at slaughter to 8 months. Older calves such as the "Veaux d'Aveyron et du Segala" in France are exceptionally allowed. The aim of this study was firstly to define the constraints to product older calves than the French "standard" 6 month-old animals, secondly to know the technical and economical interests, and finally to check if the product quality still suits the consumer. Material and Methods - Two trials of 56 Prim'Holstein male veal calves were run in research station in order to compare French pre-ruminant veal calves of 6 and 8 months. The "Veaux d'Aveyron et du Segala" were integrated into the study as the oldest animals marketed as veal in France. Results - On the zootechnical level, the 8-month-old calves grew up as good as 6-month-old calves. Cold carcasses weights reached 130-135 kg for the control group, and 165-175 kg for the 8-month-old calves. The oldest carcasses tended to be more coloured, fatter and better conformed. The economic result was very unfavourable within the 2008 context, and because of the meat colour degradation. The 2-month extension of the fattening length did not lead to major changes in meat characteristics other than the colour. "Veaux d'Aveyron et du Segala" meats often positioned themselves differently. Conclusions - On a technical point of view the pre-ruminant 8-month-old veal calves production could be possible without major meat quality degradation; however problems linked to carcass redness and breeding buildings organization arose.