The most significant differences between Iberian and crossbred pigs were found in these meat
quality parameters. The redness value (a*), as well as the myoglobin content, were higher (P <
0.001) in muscles from Iberian pigs, while the brightness (L*) was lower (P < 0.001) in muscles
from Iberian than in muscles from crossbred pigs. These data are in accordance with previous
studies (Fernández et al., 1999; Estévez, et al., 2003). Iberian pigs have been reported to have
higher concentration of oxidative fibres in muscles than less rustic breeds such as Duroc
(Serrano et al., 2008). Since muscles from Iberian pigs have more heme pigments (and
therefore more iron) than muscles from crossbred pigs, muscles from Iberian pigs have higher
redness value and less brightness than muscles from crossbred pigs. These result in an intense
dark red colour.