Beef on Dairy Research: Growth, Efficiency, and Carcass Data

In this episode of The Moos Room, Brad continues the deep dive into beef-on-dairy research, focusing on data collected in Minnesota. This is the second installment of a three-part series, where we examine how different beef breeds perform when crossed with dairy cattle.

Key highlights include:
✅ Pre-Weaning Performance: Limousin crossbred calves showed greater growth efficiency than Holstein calves, consuming less milk while gaining more weight.
✅ Breed Comparisons: Angus, Simmental, Charolais, Hereford, and Limousin crosses were evaluated from birth through harvest. Hereford calves had the highest weaning weights, while Charolais and Simmental showed strong growth through finishing.
✅ Carcass Data: Charolais and Hereford yielded the heaviest carcasses, while Limousin crosses had the largest ribeye areas. Angus and Hereford crosses finished the fastest, reaching market weight in fewer days.
✅ Meat Quality & Economics: Most animals graded Choice, with some achieving Prime. Economic analysis showed that Charolais and Hereford crosses brought in the highest total revenue due to their larger carcass sizes.

Next week, we’ll wrap up the series by exploring the role of genomics in beef-on-dairy systems. Tune in to find out if genomic testing is worth it for terminal animals!

📩 Questions or feedback? Email us at themoosroom@umn.edu or visit University of Minnesota Livestock Extension online.

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory

Beef on Dairy: Trends, Economics, and Genetics (Part 1)

Brad takes the mic solo this week to dive into a hot topic in dairy farming—beef on dairy crossbreeding. In this first part of a two-part series, he breaks down current market trends, semen sales data, and recent research on how beef genetics are being used in dairy herds.

Key highlights include:

• The growth of beef-on-dairy crossbreeding and its impact on both the dairy and beef industries.
• Market insights, including beef inventory trends and projected shifts in cattle slaughter.
• The economics behind beef-cross calves—why dairy farmers are seeing higher prices and how this impacts profitability.
• A look at breed selection: Is Angus really the best choice, or should dairy farmers consider other breeds?
• Recent studies from Wisconsin and Penn State on how different beef sire breeds affect carcass quality, feed efficiency, and marbling.

Next week, Brad will share findings from Minnesota’s own beef-on-dairy research, including carcass data from five different breeds. Stay tuned!

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory

In this episode of The Moos Room, hosts Emily and Brad tackle the latest updates on H5N1 (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza) and its impact on the dairy industry. With raw milk testing set to begin in Minnesota, they break down what dairy producers need to know about the testing process, quarantine protocols, and potential impacts on farm operations.

Key Topics Covered:

• Delays in Minnesota's milk testing rollout and what it means for producers
• Overview of the USDA’s national milk testing program and its implementation in Minnesota
• Current H5N1 status across the U.S., with a focus on California and Minnesota
• Step-by-step look at how raw milk samples are collected and tested
• Quarantine measures and biosecurity protocols if a positive case is detected
• Human health precautions and the availability of PPE for dairy workers

Whether you're in Minnesota or another state, this episode provides valuable insights into H5N1 monitoring efforts and how to keep your dairy operation running smoothly amidst evolving challenges. Tune in to stay informed and prepared!

Raw Milk Testing Update

MN Board of Animal Health - Website

Questions, comments, scathing rebuttals? -> themoosroom@umn.edu or call 612-624-3610 and leave us a message!

Linkedin -> The Moos Room
Twitter -> @UMNmoosroom and @UMNFarmSafety
Facebook -> @UMNDairy
YouTube -> UMN Beef and Dairy and UMN Farm Safety and Health
Instagram -> @UMNWCROCDairy
Extension Website
AgriAmerica Podcast Directory