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Multidimensional adaptive strategies of farm animals facing climate challenges
No full textModern livestock farming operates within increasingly
challenging climatic boundaries, making adaptation the cornerstone of sustainable
development. In confronting climate change, the innate adaptive abilities of
domestic animals must not be underestimated or neglected, as they provide the
essential biological foundation for survival and productivity in an ever more
demanding environment. Alongside human interventions, understanding and
enhancing animal adaptations lay the groundwork for developing resilient and
sustainable livestock systems.The strategies through which animals respond to
climate challenges encompass physiological, biochemical, immunological,
morphological, and behavioral mechanisms-from panting and sweating, changes in
blood composition and endocrine function, to modifications in body size, coat
characteristics, and behaviors such as seeking shade or reducing feed intake.
Interspecies and interbreed differences further underscore the critical importance of
genetic diversity in fostering resilience. These insights offer a basis for designing
strategies that support not only productivity but also animal welfare under global
warming conditions. While human interventions may alleviate the immediate
impacts of climatic stressors, it is the integration of animal adaptations that
provides the long-term foundation for the stability and future of livestock farming
Influence of stored buckwheat on colour parameters of emulsion-type chicken sausages
No full textThe standard emulsion-type chicken sausage formulation was
modified by incorporating buckwheat flour stored 0, 3, 6 and 9 months to obtain an
enriched product and monitor the effect of instrumental colour change. The control
(CON) and four combined frankfurter-buckwheat products with time-determined
stored flour (FB0, FB3, FB6, and FB9) were analysed for instrumental colour
properties (L*, a*, b*, C*, h, S, ΔE). The results were statistically processed by
one-way ANOVA (P<0.05) and Tukey’s HSD post-hoc tests (P<0.05). Added
buckwheat flour slightly affects L*, and significantly a* and b*, with the highest
values in FB0 (similar to CON), which was lighter, redder and yellower than the
other combined products. The C* value significantly decreased (P<0.05), while the
h value significantly increased (P<0.05) which caused lower chromatic purity and a
more yellow nuance in FB9 (20.65, 45.40). Significant decrease in the S value
resulted in the greatest attenuation in overall colour perception at FB6, and FB9.
An increase trend of ΔE was observed, indicating the differentiation of sausages
with respect to effect on total colour (ΔE ≤ 5.08). The results suggest that
emulsion-type chicken sausages enriched with stored buckwheat flour are
technologically justified and colour-sensory acceptable as end-products for
consumers
Genetic Parameters and Estimation of Breeding Values for Economically Important Litter Size Traits in Pig Production Using Advanced Statistical Models
No full textThe aim of this study was to assess the phenotypic variability
and genetic parameters for the economically most important litter size traits in
sows, as well as to estimate the breeding values (EBV) of boars for these traits.
Fertility data from sows and boars included 18,042 litters farrowed by 6,627 sows
on 312 pig farms. Descriptive analysis showed that the Landrace and Large White
genotypes expressed a similar average number of live-born piglets (NBA), with
somewhat higher variability observed in the Large White population. The
heritability coefficient for NBA, estimated using the repeatability model, was h² =
0.098. The low heritability of this trait confirms that it is a reproductive trait
strongly influenced by environmental factors, which highlights the need for
particular attention to the accuracy of parameter estimation. The accuracy of
genetic parameter estimation is crucial for more reliable EBV, which is of great
importance considering the effect of this parameter on EBV reliability and,
consequently, on selection efficiency. Although low values were obtained, the
inclusion of permanent environmental effects in the model contributed to a more
precise estimation of variance components and more reliable EBV. The results
emphasize the importance of selection based on EBV for increasing litter size, with
a recommendation for continued data collection on progeny to improve estimation
accuracy and ensure long-term genetic progress in pig populations
Incidence of Fumonisin B1 in small grains in Serbia
No full textA wide variety of commodities in the world have been analysed for fumonisins contamination.
However, they have mostly been reported in maize and maize-based foods and feeds. There
is a lack of data on the natural occurrence of fumonisins in small grains, which is not in
accordance with the widespread occurrence of their producers and favourable conditions for
their biosynthesis in some years in Serbia. Since small grains are important source of energy
in human nutrition and in nutrition of monogastric animals, its quality is crucial.
Survey was carried out to determine Fumonisin B1 (FB1) contamination in 46 samples of wheat
(Triticum aestivum L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) samples collected during three harvest
seasons (2020, 2021 and 2022) from 12 different locations in Serbia. The primary samples
were homogenised and quartered to obtain a 1 kg sample for laboratory analyses.
Concentration of FB1 were analysed with the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA).
Positive results were found in 50.7%, 31.6% and 10.1% samples in 2020, 2021 and 2022,
respectively. FB1 concentration varied from 750 to 1300 µg kg–1, and the mean levels
recorded were: 1005.1 µg kg–1in (wheat grain) and 753.7 µg kg–1 (barley grain). In 2021, the
highest concentrations of fumonisins were recorded in wheat and barley, due to favorable
environmental conditions during field growth
Strengthening the Sustainability of Sjenica Sheep
No full textThe Sjenica–Pešter Plateau, due to its natural characteristics, holds significant potential for
sheep production. Breeding the Sjenica sheep in this region represents a key mechanism for securing livelihoods for the local population, reducing unemployment, and preventing depopulation. However, uncontrolled crossbreeding with highly productive breeds (such as Württemberg and Île-deFrance) has led to a loss of authenticity and reduced genetic diversity of this autochthonous strain, thereby threatening biodiversity, agroecosystems, and the cultural heritage of Serbia and the surrounding region. As a response to these challenges, the most reliable conservation strategy involves promoting sustainable low-input breeding systems within traditional habitats. This study focuses on the characterization of lamb stelja — a cured meat product — as a value-added traditional resource obtained through extensive production relying exclusively on local plant-based forage. Fatty acid analysis of the stelja revealed a highly balanced nutritional profile. The proportion of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) was 48.82 ± 2.00, saturated fatty acids (SFA) accounted for 46.05 ± 1.30, while polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) comprised 3.08 ± 0.52 of total fatty acids. The dominant fatty acid was oleic acid (C18:1 cis-9) at 46.90 ± 1.75, followed by palmitic acid (C16:0) at 23.12 ± 0.48 and stearic acid (C18:0) at 19.30 ± 1.33. Omega-3 fatty acids contributed 0.95 ± 0.07 of the total content, with an omega-3 to omega-6 ratio of 0.46, indicating a favorable lipid composition in terms of human nutrition. These findings confirm that stelja derived from the Sjenica sheep represents a valuable regional product that offers not only nutritional benefits but also ecological and cultural significance. As an authentic, well-adapted, and traditionally bred animal, the Sjenica sheep deserves systematic protection and affirmation through the integration of its genetic traits, local production practices, and sustainability — serving the purpose of rural development and preserving the cultural identity of the Pešter Plateau and the region
Storage of buckwheat products as an factor affecting colour condition and implications on meat products
No full textBuckwheat is one of the traditionally high-quality crops recognized for its high nutritional and functional value. Buckwheat products (grain and flour) stored for 0, 3, 6, and 9 months and emulsion-type chicken sausages modified by adding those buckwheat flours (FB0, FB3, FB6, and FB9) were analyzed for instrumental colour parameters (L*, a*, b*, C*, h, S, DE). One(P < 0.05) and two-way (P < 0.001) ANOVA tests were used to analyze the data, followed by Tukey's HSD post-hoc test (P < 0.05). In terms of storage, a slight decrease in hue angle was observed in grains, with the lowest value of 57.48 (6 months). In flour, trends of decreasing L* and increasing a*, b*, C*, and S values were observed to the end of storage. The values of hue angle and total colour difference decreased, with the lowest point at 73.92 for h and the largest significant change at 4.73 for DE in 6 months. In terms of product type, compared to grains, flour was lighter and yellowish on average 2.3 (L*) and 1.3 (h) times. Grains consistently demonstrated significantly higher a*, C*, and S values. In composite products, added flour slightly affects L*, and significantly a* and b*, where FB0 was lighter, redder and yellower than the other combined products. A significant decrease in C* and increase in h values caused lower chromatic purity and a more yellow nuance in FB9 (20.66, 45.38). A decrease in S resulted in the greatest attenuation in overall colour perception at FB6, and FB9. An increase trend of DE indicating the differentiation of sausages with respect to effect on total colour (DE ≤ 5.10). The results could indicate the potential utilization of long-term stored buckwheat grains (flour) as a functional ingredient and valuable plant-based raw material in the production of enriched, composite meat products
Authentication of Propolis: Integrating Chemical Profiling, Data Analysis and International Standardization—A Review
No full textPropolis is an apicultural product known for its antioxidant, antimicrobial and antiinflammatory properties. However, its composition varies with botanical sources, geography, season and bee species, complicating quality control and creating opportunities for adulteration, such as the addition of poplar bud extracts or non-propolis resins. This review synthesizes the latest primary studies and reviews addressing chemical markers identified through analytical platforms, such as TLC, HPTLC, HPLC, LC-MS, GC-MS, NMR, FTIR and ICP, often integrated with chemometrics and machine learning for authentication and standardization. Marker panels are linked to regional chemotypes, including poplar-type, Brazilian green, red and brown, Cuban variants, and stingless bee propolis. Fraud detection strategies using marker-based screening and spectral pattern recognition are also summarized. Multi-marker and chemometric approaches consistently differentiate botanical types, origins and commercial extracts. Common marker families include flavonoids (pinocembrin, chrysin, galangin), phenolic esters (CAPE, benzyl/allyl caffeates), prenylated cinnamates like artepillin C, lignans, and volatile terpenoids or benzenoids. Rapid screening by ATR-FTIR and NMR is often complemented with LC-MS for confirmatory quantitation. Propolis quality control is moving toward harmonized workflows combining FTIR/NMR/HPTLC screening with LC-MS verification and optional elemental or volatile profiling, paving the way for shared marker sets and international standards similar to those for honey
ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE: A GLOBAL CHALLENGE AND IMPLICATIONS FOR DAIRY CATTLE PRODUCTION
No full textAntimicrobial resistance (AMR), especially antibiotic
resistance, currently is one of the most important public health challenges, with
serious consequences for human, animal and environmental health. In the context
of dairy cattle production, the frequent and often unnecessary use of antibiotics,
especially in the treatment of mastitis, significantly contributes to the development
and spread of resistant bacteria. The aim of this review was to analyse the
occurrence and mechanisms of AMR development in dairy production, with a
special emphasis on mastitis as a main model for understanding the connection
between veterinary practice, public health and food safety. Furthermore, the paper
also provides an overview of current national and European strategic frameworks
for AMR control, including selective therapeutic approaches, rapid diagnostics and
preventive measures on dairy farms. In conclusion, the need for an integrated
approach based on the One Health concept, which includes the collaboration of
policy, science, education and practice, is necessary in order to preserve the
effectiveness of antimicrobials and ensure sustainable dairy production
SEASONAL VARIATIONS IN EGG QUALITY TRAITS IN BELGRADE SUPERMARKETS
No full textThe aim of this study was to determine the quality of eggs available in Belgrade supermarkets during different seasons (winter, spring, summer), for various housing systems (cage, floor, and free-range), and to assess the representation of eggs from cage and non-cage systems in the year when Serbian egg producers have been granted an extended transitional period to comply with animal welfare legislation banning conventional cage systems. The research covered nine Belgrade supermarkets. All egg producers representing the three housing systems were recorded, and eggs up to 15 days old were tested for external and internal quality traits. The results show that cage-system producers remain dominant on the market, with a share ranging from 45.5% in winter to 50% in spring and summer. The share of floor (non-cage) eggs was 36.6% in winter and 30% in spring and summer, while free-range eggs had the lowest representation during all three seasons (around 20%). The findings indicate variability in egg quality traits influenced by both season and housing system as the second studied factor. Haugh Unit (HU) values, which represent an aggregate indicator of egg quality, were highest in winter, averaging 76.29 for the cage system, 76.31 for the floor system, and 77.28 for the free-range system. In spring and summer, lower HU values were recorded for all three systems, with a more pronounced decline in the non-cage systems. It can be concluded that there is a growing trend in the supply of eggs from non-cage systems in Belgrade supermarkets, which is more favorable in terms of animal welfare. The development of these systems could be further supported through education of producers and consumers, as well as through research and producer incentives. Although the study focuses on egg quality at the market level, and thus reflects the quality of the product reaching consumers, it also indicates potential weaknesses in the “from producer to consumer” chain. Therefore, it can be a starting point for future research on the entire system of egg production and distribution.Cilј rada bio je da se utvrdi kvalitet jaja u beogradskim supermarketima tokom različitih sezona (zima, proleće, leto), za različite sisteme gajenja (kavezni, podni i slobodni) i da se proceni zastuplјenost jaja iz kaveznih i nekaveznih sistema u periodu ponovnog produženja roka za usklađivanje sa zakonskim propisima o dobrobiti životinja kojima se zabranjuju konvencionalni kavezni sistemi. Istraživanje je obuhvatilo devet beogradskih supermarketa. Svi proizvođači jaja iz sva tri sistema su evidentirani, a jaj a starosti do 15 dana su uzorkovana i testirana na spolјašnje i unutrašnje osobine kvaliteta. Rezultati pokazuju da su proizvođači iz kaveznih sistema dominantni na tržištu, sa udelom u rasponu od 45,5% zimi do 50% u proleće i leto. Udeo jaja iz podnog (nekaveznog) držanja bio je 36,6% zimi i 30% u proleće i leto, dok su jaja iz slobodnog uzgoja imala najmanju zastuplјenost tokom sva tri sezone (oko 20%). Rezultati ukazuju na varijabilnost osobina kvaliteta jaja pod uticajem sezone i sistema gajenja, kao drugog proučavanog faktora. Vrednosti Haugovih jedinica (HJ), koje predstavlјaju zbirni indikator kvaliteta jaja, bile su najviše zimi, u proseku 76,29 za kavezni sistem, 76,31 za podni sistem i 77,28 za sistem slobodnog gajenja. U proleće i leto zabeležene su niže vrednosti HJ za sva tri sistema, sa izraženijim padom u nekaveznim sistemima. Može se zaklјučiti da postoji rastući trend u ponudi jaja iz nekaveznih sistema u beogradskim supermarketima, što je povolјnije sa stanovišta dobrobiti životinja. Razvoj ovih sistema mogao bi se dodatno podržati kroz edukaciju proizvođača i potrošača, kao i kroz istraživanje i podsticaje proizvođačima. Iako se rad fokusira na kvalitet jaja na nivou tržišta i time odražava kvalitet proizvoda koji stiže do potrošača, on takođe ukazuje na potencijalne slabosti u lancu „od proizvođača do potrošača“. Stoga rad može biti polazna tačka za buduća istraživanja celog sistema proizvodnje i distribucije jaja
Characterization of Fusarium graminearum and Fusarium boothii originated from wheat and maize in Serbia
No full textAgroecological conditions prevailing in Serbia favor the development of numerous pathogenic
and toxigenic Fusarium species out of which Fusarium graminearum is the most important
pathogen of maize and small grains. At least 15 phylogenetic species within the Fusarium
graminearum species complex (FGSC) were discovered using phylogenetic analysis and the
GCPSR method (Genealogical Concordant Phylogenetic Species Recognition) (Sarver et al.
2011). The aim of this work was to characterize F. graminearum and F. boothii originated from
wheat and maize in Serbia
In this research, 79 isolates were studied, isolated from wheat (42) and maize (37) grains from
12 different locations in Serbia. Using the TEF-1a genomic region, all isolated isolates (79)
were sent for service sequencing, and then 9 representative isolates were selected and further
sequenced based on two more genomic regions β-tubulin and histone H3. Phylogenetic
analysis of nine selected sequences of three gene regions of TEF-1a (MF974399, MF974400,
MF974402, MF974403, MF974404, MF974405, MF974406, MF974407, MF974408,
MF974409, MF974410), β-tubulin (MG063783, MG063784, MG063786, MG063787,
MG063788, MG063789, MG063790, MG063791, MG063792, MG063793, MG063794) and
histone H3 (MF999139, MF999140). MF999142, MF999143 MF999144, MF999145,
MF999146, MF999147, MF999148, MF999149, MF9991450), revealed that seven isolates
were identified as F. graminearum sensu stricto and two isolates as F. boothii, one of maize
origin (MF974409, MG063793, MF999149) and one isolate of wheat origin (MF974410,
MG063794, MF999150).
Genes TEF-1a, β-tubulin and histone H3 were found to be informative enough to separate the
F. boothii species within FGSC. Species within the FGSC synthesize a variety of mycotoxins
that affect human and animal health. Based on chemical and molecular analyses, it was
confirmed that all isolates belonged to chemotype 15ADON. Since previous research has
shown that climate change is the main cause of the appearance of new, potentially more toxic
species, future research must pay special attention to changes in the population of the FG
complex