Effects of modified tall oil and vitamin e on growth performance and carcass characteristics of growing-finishing barrows

A trial was conducted to investigate the interactive effects of modified tall oil (MTO) and vitamin E on growth performance and carcass characteristics of growing-finishing barrows. Feeding MTO resulted in increased ADG and improved F/G during the growing phase; otherwise dietary treatment did not affect growth performance during the rest of the trial or overall. Feeding MTO also decreased backfat thickness and increased belly firmness. Increasing vitamin E in diets containing MTO decreased drip loss percentage of the loin. These results indicate that MTO may function as a growth promoter; reduce backfat; and in conjunction with vitamin E, itnprove some aspects of meat quality.