Lipidomics and metabolomics reveal the enhanced mutton quality of Tan sheep under a standardized feeding regimen

Abstract

One of the main factors affecting meat quality is the feeding regimen, which impacts muscle growth, fat accumulation, and fatty acid composition. This study characterized the lipid and metabolite profiles in Tan lamb using lipidomics and metabolomics to investigate the influence of standardized feeding and conventional grazing regimens on meat quality. We identified 813 lipids across five categories and 86 metabolites, including peptides, amino acids, carnitines, and nucleosides in Tan lamb. The standardized feeding regimen yielded fewer saturated fatty acids (SFAs), an increased n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) content, and a higher PUFA/SFA ratio than the conventional grazing regimen. In addition, this regimen elevated the levels of bioactive peptides, vitamin B2 cofactors, and nucleosides. Analysis of purine metabolism and aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis revealed improved flavor and increased protein synthesis under the standardized feeding regimen. Therefore, the standardized feeding regimen enhances nutritional value and improves lamb flavor, making it suitable for Tan sheep feeding.