Carne mecanicamente separada de codornas japonesas em dietas de cães

Abstract

Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) are animals whose diet reflects their evolution as facultative carnivores, with a pronounced preference for animal-based protein-rich foods. However, the growing demand for high-quality pet foods poses challenges regarding the sustainable use of resources. In this context, mechanically separated meat (MSM) from Japanese quail carcasses discarded after the laying cycle emerges as a potential alternative source of high biological value protein for adult dog nutrition. This study aimed to evaluate the palatability and digestibility of quail MSM, with a focus on its utilization in dog food and its contribution to reducing waste in the poultry industry. Chapter I introduces the context of quail farming in Brazil, highlighting the production of Japanese quails and the challenge of discarding birds at the end of the laying cycle. Chapter II presents the first experiment, where a palatability test was conducted comparing diets containing raw and cooked MSM, revealing a preference among dogs for the cooked MSM. Chapter III describes the second experiment, which assessed the apparent digestibility coefficients and fecal characteristics of dogs fed with different levels of cooked MSM. The results indicated that the inclusion of MSM in the diet improved the digestibility of minerals, as well as provided more consistent feces and a less acidic fecal pH, suggesting a healthier intestinal environment. The microbiological analysis of the samples did not detect the presence of Salmonella spp., ensuring the safety of MSM use. It is concluded that mechanically separated meat from discarded Japanese quails is a nutritionally viable and sustainable alternative for dog food, promoting the valorization of poultry co-products and contributing to sustainability in pet food production.