Carcass Measurements and Weights of West African Dwarf Goat as Affected by Dressing Methods

Abstract

A study on carcass measurements and weights of male West African Dwarf (WAD) goats as affected by dressing methods was carried out. Nine (9) WAD goats weighing between 18-20 kg were allotted to three dressing methods namely: singeing, scalding and skinning; as the treatments, in three (3) replicates. The experimental model was the completely randomized design (CRD). Parameters measured were carcass weights and measurements, primal or wholesale cuts. The results showed that singeing significantly (p<0.05) increased intact carcass weight from 5.64 kg and 6.47 kg recorded in the skinned and scalded carcasses to 6.48 Kg, and relative weight from 3.97 kg recorded in both the skinned and scalded carcasses to 4.67 kg. Length of carcass was significantly (p<0.05) higher in the scalded carcass (36.67 kg) compared to the skinned and singed carcasses which recorded 30.67 and 28.67 kg, respectively. While, skinning recorded a significant (p<0.05) higher weight for depth of chest and maximum width of leg, having 17.67 and 13.67 cm compared to singeing and scalding having 16.67cm each for depth of chest, 11.67 and 10.67 cm, respectively for maximum width of leg. Also, primal cuts yields of rack, neck, shoulder and shank were significantly (p<0.05) higher in singeing, while those of loin and leg were significantly (p<0.05) higher in skinning. Scalding recorded the least yields in all the primal cuts measured.