Abstract:
This study investigates pre-weaning growth of cattle and its effect on biochemical and histochemical markers of muscle development and subsequent biophysical attributes of eating quality. Combinations of cow (late pregnancy to mid-lactation) and pre-weaning (varying duration of access to a high-energy ration) supplementation were used to vary calf growth to weaning in 6 treatment groups. After weaning, calves were grazed together on pasture (backgrounding) and then grown rapidly on a feedlot ration (finishing) until slaughter. Biochemical and myofibre characteristics were determined in