A note on the comparative growth performance of pigs sired by Piétrain × Hampshire, Hampshire × Large White and Large White boars

Abstract

The performance of progeny sired by Piétrain × Hampshire, Hampshire × Large White and Large White boars was compared over the live-weight range 28 to 65 kg. Feeding was twice daily to ‘appetite’ up to a maximum of 2·27 kg meal/day. Breed of boar did not influence rate or efficiency of live-weight gain, mid-line or internal fat depths nor muscle quality. Progeny of Pietrain × Hampshire and Hampshire × Large White sires, compared with those of Large White boars, had higher killing-out percentages (1·4 and 1·2 units) and larger eye muscles in cross-section (19·3 and 11·6%). Significant but small breed differences were noted in joint proportions of the carcass.