Trace elements (i.e. Fe, Cu and Zn) are essential for maintaining importantphysiological processes, and dietary requirements in pigs should be carefully established. Asa valid approximation to study trace mineral needs, an experiment was conducted to analysethe content of Fe, Cu and Zn in muscles from two porcine genotypes. Sixteen pigs (8 Iberian, IB, and 8 Landrace × Large White, LDW) were used. They were fed isoenergetic diets (14 MJ/Kg DM) containing either 130 or 170 g CP/kg DM, to match protein requirements of each breed (4 pigs/genotype and CP level).The pigs were sacrificed at 115 kg LW, and samples of longissimus dorsiandbiceps femorismuscles were obtained.Fe and Zn concentration in muscles was significantly influenced by genotype, being higher amongIB pigs. Asignificant effect of dietary protein was observed in the IB group, as pigs fed with higher protein levels had lower values of Fe in both muscles. Cu content was not affected by genotype or diet. These results indicate that deposition of trace minerals, such as Fe and Zn, is under genetic control, and support the importance of meat from IB pigs as a good source of Fe and Zn

Empresa Sánchez Romero Carvajal Jabugo (Sevilla); Empresa Jodral Gutiérrez SA (Córdoba)

Peer reviewed