Heterosis for meat quality and fatty acid profiles in crosses among Bos indicus and Bos taurus finished on pasture or grain

► Crossbreeding B. taurus and B. indicus benefits meat quality and fatty acid profiles. ► Heterosis improves meat tenderness in pasture- but not in grain-finishing. ► In grain-finishing, heterosis improves meat leanness and fatty acid profiles. ► Estimated activity of Δ9 desaturase in crossbreds is closer to indicus than to taurus.