책임운영기관 농촌진흥청 국립축산과학원

This study evaluated the growth performance and meat quality characteristics of third-generation (F3) WooriHeukDon and Yorkshire crossbred pigs. Growth performance was assessed using the number of days required to reach a body weight of 90 kg for F3 crossbred and WooriHeukDon pigs. Body conformation traits and backfat thickness were measured; intramuscular fat (IMF) content was determined by chemical analysis. The results showed that F3 crossbred pigs reached a body weight of 90 kg significantly earlier than WooriHeukDon pigs (127.69 ± 7.44 days vs. 141.93 ± 8.62 days, p < 0.001) and had a greater body length (96.71 ± 2.36 cm vs. 94.50 ± 2.13 cm, p < 0.05). In addition, backfat thickness was significantly less in F3 crossbreds (18.36 ± 2.38 mm vs. 19.78 ± 2.11 mm, p < 0.05), but IMF contents were similar in the two groups (2.84% vs. 2.82%, p > 0.05). These findings suggest that F3 crossbred pigs demonstrate improved growth performance and carcass yield while maintaining the desirable meat quality traits required for premium pork production. The study shows that the F3 crossbred line might serve as the basis for developing ideal pig breeds.