A Preliminary Study on the Modifying Effect of Strawberry Seed Oil and Sex on Rabbit Meat Quality

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Nutritional Biochemistry
• Food Science

Background:

• Rabbit meat is a valuable source of protein.
• Optimizing rabbit feed can enhance meat production and quality.
• Strawberry seed oil is a potential source of beneficial fatty acids.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of strawberry seed oil supplementation in rabbit feed.
• To assess effects on slaughter performance, meat quality, and plasma lipid profiles.
• To determine changes in fatty acid composition of rabbit meat.

Main Methods:

• 24 Termond White rabbits were divided into control and experimental groups.
• Experimental group received feed with 1% strawberry seed oil addition.
• Slaughter performance, meat quality parameters, and plasma lipids were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Strawberry seed oil increased hind part, head, and liver weight.
• Meat pH and color coordinates were enhanced; texture parameters (springiness, cohesiveness, chewiness) were reduced.
• HDL levels increased, triglycerides decreased, and linoleic acid content in meat significantly rose.

Conclusions:

• Strawberry seed oil supplementation positively influences rabbit slaughter performance and meat characteristics.
• Dietary strawberry seed oil improves lipid profiles and enhances desirable fatty acid content in rabbit meat.
• This oil shows promise as a beneficial feed additive in rabbit production.