All calves were weighed at the beginning of the study (d 8; equivalent to 8 d of age), at d 43, 64, 92, 120, and the day before slaughter (d 167). Feed intake was recorded during each feeding period of the study (growing period: d 8 to 92; finishing period: d 93 to 168).
From these data, ADG and FCR were calculated. At the end of the study (d 168), animals were stunned approximately 30 s before slaughter and exsanguination. The cold carcass weight, defined as the weight of the animal after bleeding and removal of the viscera,feet, head, hide, and tail, was recorded.