mEATquality Italian dataset of two independent experiments on growth, carcass traits and meat quality of heavy pigs raised in two housing system (convetional/organic) with different space allowances

Effect of space allowance on pork quality in heavy pigs in two housing systemsThe growing consumer demand for high-quality products, coupled with expectations for more sustainable production systems, particularly regarding animal welfare, have led to significant changes in livestock farming practices. Among the various parameters affecting pig welfare, space allowance plays a central role, particularly in supporting resting and reducing the incidence of injuries and stress-related behaviors. However, studies on the effect of available space on pork quality are few and the results are inconclusive. This study aims to investigate the effect of different space allowances on the performance, carcass traits, and meat quality of Italian heavy pigs. Different space allowances were compared across two experiments in an indoor conventional housing system (1.15, 1.9 and 3 m²/pig) and in an indoor organic hosing system with outdoor access (1.4+1, 2.6+2 and 3.9+3 m²/pig). Pig carcasses were assessed and measured and their left loins sampled for laboratory analyses (pH, color. drip loss, proximate composition, texture, cooking loss and fatty acids). No statistically significant differences were found between different groups of pigs treated in both experiments, except for meat texture showing a significant reduction in Slice Shear Force and fracturability as space availability increased in the conventional indoor housing system, indicating improved tenderness.