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Influence of Breed and Plane of Nutrition on Performance of Dairy, Dual-Purpose and Beef Steers. II. From 180 Days of Age to Slaughter

U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, Maryland 20705

Abstract

In two trials a total of 186 Holstein, Jersey, Milking Shorthorn, Angus and Hereford steers were fed from 180 days of age to slaughter at an estimated 55 to 60% of mature bull weight of the breed or to 27 months of age if individuals had not reached prescribed weight. Prior to 180 days of age the steers had been reared at two levels of nutrition. From 180 days to slaughter three diets were used: (1) 75% concentrate, (2) all hay with equal parts alflafa and timothy, or (3) a sequence of all hay for most of the period followed by the concentrate diet. Rate and efficiency of live weight gain on all diets and for both Phase I treatments were highest for the Holsteins followed in order by the Milking Shorthorns, beef breeds (Angus and Hereford) and Jerseys. Efficiency of lean production in relation to caloric intake followed the pattern of live weight gain efficiency. Efficiency of fat production and total caloric efficiency was highest for the beef breeds. Beef steers produced fatter carcasses which graded higher by usual U.S. standards. Palatability and tenderness evaluation of cooked meat ranked the Jerseys and beef breeds highest followed by Holsteins and Milking Shorthorns. The concentrate diet produced fatter carcasses than the hay or combination diets. Carryover effects of low Phase I nutrition levels resulted in more rapid and efficient live weight gains.

¹ Animal Science Research Division, A.R.S.

² Biometrical Services, A.R.S., Colorado State University.

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