Optimizing breeding performance through algorithmic approaches to maximize meat quality in livestock
Abstract
Consumers are now increasingly aware of the impact of meat production on animal welfare and the environment.
Simultaneously, there has been a decline in meat consumption and a demand for high-quality meat (in terms of sensory
as well as nutritional quality). This study aims to propose a methodological approach that uses breeding practices to
estimate meat quality, aiming to achieve optimal quality and meet consumer demand. To achieve this goal, we have
developed an updated version of NSGA-II (Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II). This algorithm generates
a set of candidate solutions, selects the best individuals based on their fitness, and applies genetic operators such as
crossover and mutation to generate new offspring. The decision space is defined by the variables X related to the
management of breeding practices, while the objective space Y represents the variables related to the sensory and/
or nutritional quality of the meat to optimize. To ensure accuracy and precision, the fitness value of each objective is
assessed using a multiple linear regression model. An AIC (Akaike Information Criterion) approach is then mobilized
to select the most relevant model for each objective. Once a new population is evaluated using the selected models,
the Pareto front approach is utilized to identify the non-dominant variables in the multi-objective space. In order to
prevent the algorithm from getting trapped in local maximum scenarios, a crowding distance method is employed
to maintain population variability and to ultimately reach the global maximum. With this approach, we can generate
the best breeding practices for each breed/type of animal and optimize quality. Using the hypervolume approach,
we can compare the different optimum front scenarios and recommend, for example, the best breed according to the
objectives. In conclusion, this study presents an updated methodological approach for estimating meat quality using
breeding practices, which has the potential to improve meat quality and meet consumer demands.