Evaluating Raman Spectroscopy as a Tool for Genetic Selection Against Boar Taint.

Abstract

Boar taint, caused by androstenone and skatole in entire male pigs, remains a major challenge as the European pig industry moves away from surgical castration for welfare reasons. This study assessed Raman spectroscopy as a tool for genetic selection against boar taint through three approaches: building a classification model, integrating predictions into genetic evaluations, and exploring phenomic selection using spectral similarities. The PLS-DA model achieved 75% sensitivity and 67% specificity, while Raman-based predictions were moderately heritable, correlated with reference traits, and could increase genetic gain by 5%. Although the phenomic selection approach tested with spectral similarities has not yet matched the predictive potential of genomic selection, it offers promising avenues for optimization.