An experiment was conducted to determine the effects of FlaxLic supplement blocks, fed free-choice during feedlot finishing, on heifer performance, carcass quality, and fatty acid profiles of loin steaks. Heifers (n=302, 1059±7 lb initial bodyweight) were
fed diets based on steam-flaked corn. Cattle
were assigned to dirt surfaced pens (12 to 13
heifers/pen, 12 pens/treatment). Treatments
consisted of control (no block) or FlaxLic
free-choice block supplements. Loins were
obtained from three animals randomly selected
from each pen for measurement of fatty
acid profiles. Average daily gain and feed:gain were not different over the 75-day feeding trial. Dry matter intake was less for heifers supplemented with FlaxLic blocks. There were no differences between treatments for carcass characteristics. Heifers supplemented with FlaxLic blocks had greater concentrations of 18:3n3 (alpha-linolenic acid) fatty acids in loin steaks, compared with controls. The ratio of omega-6:omega-3 fatty acids was also reduced by supplementation with FlaxLic blocks.
