Effect of feeding fababean (Vicia faba L.) on the meat quality and histological changes of visceral: Organs of crossbred sheep

A feeding trial was conducted using fababean (Vicia faba L.)-based ration f or one year duration in eighteen crossbred sheep divided into three differe nt groups containing six in each Group to study its effect on meat quality and histological changes in the visceral organs. The control group (T-1) wa s fed on conventional concentrate mixture, while the treated groups (T-2) a nd (T-3) were fed on the concentrate mixture in which protein replacement w as done by fababcan at 25 and 100% levels, respectively. On slaughtering th e sheep at the age of 18 months. it was observed that meat: bonives ratio o f loin cut as compared to other cuts was highest in T-1 and T-2 groups, whi le that of foreleg cut was found to be highest in T-1 carcasses. There was no significant difference in proximate composition of meat except ether ext ract due to cuts and treatment groups. Ether extractive of loin cut were si gnificantly (P<0.05) higher in control group and no difference was observed between the treated samples. The organoleptic qualities of mutton belongin g to T-2 batch were superior over the other groups, in respect of flavour, tenderness, juiciness and overall acceptability, while colour and appearanc e were the highest in T-3 group. The histological study revealed that the r umen papillae in control group (T-1) were wide and short, while these were slightly elongated in T-2 group. In T-3 samples, significant elongation and slender growth of the papillae and subacute inflammation of lamina propria were observed. The calcification of medullary renal tubules in T-3 and mil d proliferation of fibrous tissue in portal tract in T-2 group were also fo und. Results showd that T-2 group was best suited for good quality mutton p roduction.