Microwave technology is a potential tool for the genetic selection of carcase composition in lamb

Abstract

Selection for the breeding objective trait of lean meat yield percentage in lamb is currently achieved using correlated live animal measures (e.g. weights and ultrasound scans) and carcase measures (hot carcase weight, C-site fat depth and GR tissue depth) (Mortimer <i>et al</i>. 2017). The collection of the carcase composition traits is currently a labour intensive and expensive process. Microwave technology is being investigated as an alternative tool to measure the carcase traits more easily in a commercial processing environment (Marimuthu <i>et al</i>. 2020). This study explores the potential to select for carcase composition using microwave predictions of C-site fat depth.