A meta-analysis on the effect of the feeding type and production system on the carcase quality of lambs

This meta-analysis aims to identify if there are differences between the weight of lamb carcases and their main characteristics according to the production systems and type of feeding around the word. Lambs finished on feeding supplement (with or without supplement) and production system (feed-lot or free-range) were analysed. Data from 21 controlled studies were used, the variables of interest in the meta-analysis include: initial body weight (IBW, kg), final body weight (FBW, kg), hot carcase weight (HCW, kg), cold carcase weight (CCW, kg), area of longissimus dorsi (ALd, cm2), subcutaneous dorsal fat thickness (SFT, mm) and slaughter weight (kg). The high heterogeneity (>98%) found in this study may be due to many factors (breed, climate, age and management). Furthermore, the number of animals allocated for each treatment and the lack of repetitions make it difficult to correctly understand the effect of feeding and production system on the lamb meat. Lambs finished in a feedlot or with supplementation under extensive systems exhibit faster growth rates, achieve target weights quicker, and produce heavier carcase weights when compared to grazing lambs.Highlights Lambs finished in a feedlot or with supplementation under extensive systems exhibit faster growth rates compared to grazing lambs. Lambs finished in a feedlot or with supplementation under extensive systems achieve target weights quicker compared to grazing lambs. Finishing lambs on high-quality pasture can produce satisfactory growth rates without compromising characteristics of carcase