Effect of free-range raising on performance, carcass attributes and meat quality of broiler chickens

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of free-range raising system on production results and carcass and meat quality of broiler chickens aged 42 days, using fast growing Ross 308 line. Day-old chicks were randomly assigned to two groups, 120 birds in each. Group I throughout rearing remained indoors on deep litter while Group II was kept at free range. Production results, carcass quality, physico-chemical traits of breast and leg muscles (pH 15min and pH 24h , L*a*b* colour space, water-holding capacity, drip loss, thermal loss, and shear force) were determined. Housing system affected the rearing performance of birds. Higher body weight and lower mortality were characteristic of Group I. Rearing system had no effect on dressing percentage, carcass colour and carcass quality. The majority of physico-chemical parameters of breast and leg muscles were similar in both groups.