Abstract

The aim of this study was to define the effect of crossing Black-and-White (CB) cattle with Italian beet’ breeds ( Piemontese—P. Marchigiana—M and Chianina—.Ch) and with Aberdeen Angus (AA) breed as well as that of pure Black-and—White breed with AA and Simmental (S) bulls, on the histological structure of skin tissue and properties of the collagen fibres. Knowledge of the arrangement and structure of’ collagen fibres of the studied skins may be helpful in choosing the correct technological process for their dressing, or in developing a new one which would result in a better utilisation of raw material.

It can be stated that analysis of’ photographs of skin tissue under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) corresponds with the results of fibre measurements conducted under a light microscope. Skin tissue of bulls (CB x P) x AA and CB x AA showed the smallest spacing between the bundles of collagen fibres. The largest number of fibres in a bundle was contained in the skins of crossbreeds (CB x M) x AA and (CB x P) x AA. In contrast. the skins of S and (CB x Ch) x AA. crossbreeds (CB x M) x AA and (CB x P) x AA were characterised by a largest number of fine fibres in a bundle. Based on an organoleptic assessment the latter skin tissue displayed higher fineness and softness as well as better elasticity.

The thickness of the collagen fibres was relatively greater in the skins of those breed groups. which were characterised by a smaller number of fibres in a bundle. A high content of collagen in the skin of Simmental and CB x S bulls is indicative of its extended structure and denser network.