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Dimensions and Light Reflectance of Broiler Breast Fillets: Influence of Strain, Sex, and Feeding Regimen

W. A. Dozier, III^* and E. T. Moran, Jr.

^* Poultry Science Department, Rural Development Center, PO Box 1209, University of Georgia, Tifton, GA 31793
Poultry Science Department, Auburn University and Alabama Agricultural Research Station, Auburn, AL 36849-5416

Correspondence: W. A. Dozier, III, E-mail: bdozier{at}uga.edu

Two strain-crosses (A and B) differing in breast meat yield were given four feeding regimens from 0 to 42 d of age, which were formulated to progressively reduce protein and limiting essential amino acids (EAA) and cost. Strain A exhibited an advantage in live performance over strain B, respective of sex. Live performance generally suffered with the reduction of protein and EAA, as did carcass fatness and chilled yield. Fillets from Strain A weighed more, represented a greater percentage of the carcass, and were wider and thicker than fillets from Strain B. Although a similar difference in fillet weights existed between the sexes, accommodation was similar for all dimensions. Progressive reduction in protein-EAA nutrition led to decreases in fillet weight and its proportion of the carcass to an equivalent extent with both strains and sexes, but its length was reduced to a greater extent with males than females. Appearance of fillet lightness, based upon light reflectance, was similar among strains and sexes and with all levels of protein-EAA nutrition. Fillet L* values exceeding 49 and potential pale, soft, and exudative (PSE)-like problems were unrelated to their absolute weights and dimensions but were more likely to occur with broilers of lighter weight.

Key Words: breast fillet • broiler • feeding regimen • strain cross