The influence of the immunocastration (immunisation against GnRH) on pig performance (growth, carcass and meat quality traits) was investigated in two parallel experiments (on two farms) with two crossbreeds – G1 (50% Duroc) and G2 (50% Pietrain). Within the crossbreed, the pigs were assigned to three experimental groups; entire males (EM, n=49), immunocastrates (IC, n=45) and surgical castrates (SC, n=45). Those assigned to IC group were vaccinated at the age of 12 and 19 weeks. Pigs were individually housed, their feed intake (ad libitum) and weight (at 12, 19 and 24 weeks) were recorded. At the age of 24 weeks, the pigs were slaughtered and their carcass and meat quality traits were assessed. We hypothesized that treatment response could have been different in two crossbreeds. However the interaction was insignificant, thus the treatment effect is presented on pooled results for both crossbreeds. Until the revaccination, IC were similar to EM pigs, thereafter they exhibited an increase in feed intake and growth rate. Overall, they presented an advantage in growth rate and feed efficiency as compared to SC. They also exhibited better carcass properties as SC without any major effect on meat quality. The present study provides the initial information on the immunocastration effect in Slovenian herds that should further be supported by testing it in usual rearing conditions and group housing.

pig; immunocastration; growth performance; carcass properties; meat quality

Published by University of Zagreb, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagreb, CROATIA
Sponsored by Ministry Science and Education of the Republic of Croatia