Beef Farming Systems

Question 1

What are the three key phases in beef production?

Answer 1

1. Rearing (Calf Rearing, Weaning)
2. Managing (Nutrition, Location, System)
3. Slaughter (Target Weight, KPIs)

Question 2

What are the target KPIs in beef production?

Answer 2

1. Weight for Slaughter
2. Age at Slaughter
3. Feed Conversion Efficiency (FCE)
4. Feed Costs
5. Growth Rate

Question 3

How does nutrition affect beef quality?

Answer 3

Grain-fed beef: Faster growth, more fat, better marbling, tender
Grass-fed beef: Leaner, slower growth, different flavor profile

Question 4

What factors affect meat quality from production to post-slaughter?

Answer 4

Pre-slaughter: Transport, Stress, Handling
Post-slaughter: Bleeding, Carcass Grading, Storage
Genetics: Breed, Age, Sex
Nutrition: Feed type, finishing diet

Question 5

What factors influence the choice of beef farming system?

Answer 5

1. Resources: Land, Feed
2. Market: Demand, Prices
3. Genetics: Breed, Sex
4. Management: Nutrition, Health

Question 6

What is the difference between intensive and extensive beef systems?

Answer 6

Intensive: Indoor, fast growth, grain-fed, early slaughter (12-17 months)
Extensive: Outdoor grazing, slower growth, grass-fed, later slaughter (18-24 months)

Question 7

What are the main factors influencing meat quality?

Answer 7

Pre-slaughter: Transport, Stress
Post-slaughter: Handling, Carcass Grading
Genetics: Breed & Sex
Nutrition: Feed type

Question 8

What are beef carcass classifications based on fat and conformation?

Answer 8

Fat: 1 (lean) to 5 (fat)
Conformation: E (shapely) to P (poor)

Question 9

How does genetics influence beef quality?

Answer 9

Different breeds have different marbling, tenderness, and fat deposition. E.g., Angus tends to be more tender than Charolais.

Question 10

What are sustainability drivers in beef production?

Answer 10

Efficient water use
Precision feeding
Waste-water recovery
Animal health & longevity goals

Question 11

What challenges affect beef production?

Answer 11

Diseases: Impact growth, yield, and fertility
Climate change: Increased GHG emissions
Consumer concerns: Animal welfare, antimicrobial resistance (AMR)

Question 12

Why is animal welfare critical in beef farming?

Answer 12

Improves meat quality (less stress, better tenderness)
Meets consumer demand for humane practices
Influences market access and consumer perceptions