Fatty Acid Composition of Bulls and Steers as Influenced by Age and Dietary Energy Level

Abstract

One-hundred-forty-four male Angus calves were utilized to assess the relationship of bulls and steers adipose tissue fatty acid composition for various age groups. Animals were further grouped so as to compare the effects that high or low energy diets have on the tissue components. All animals were slaughtered upon reaching their respective age group and a detailed carcass evaluation performed. Adipose tissue samples were taken from intramuscular and subcutaneous tissues for fatty acid compositiondetermination. The data indicate that, while bulls and steers may differ considerably in their growth performance and carcass characteristics,the composition of their depot fat is quite similar. Age would appear to be the primary contributor toward changes in the fatty acid composition of both subcutaneous and intramuscular adipose tissue. The effects due to dietary energy levels were minimal, however, they were more prevalent in bulls than in steers.