Energetic Efficiency of Beef and Dairy Steers

Abstract

Two comparative slaughter experiments were conducted to compare the net efficiency of energy utilization by a breed historically bred for milk production (Holstein) with one bred for beef production (Hereford). The results indicate the Hereford was 20% and 12% more efficient in converting feed energy consumed above maintenance to energy storage as fat and protein in the two trials. The gains made by the beef steers contained more fat and consequently more energy than comparable gains by the dairy steers. Protein gain per unit of food above maintenance was almost identical for the two breeds. The difference in efficiency seemed to be related to the fat component of the animal and of the gained tissue.