An article we read in New Scientist, reminded us that cattle farming is a business, one that faces substantial challenges. All cattle are not born equal! Dairy cows and beef cows are bred for their specific needs.
Dairy cows need to have calves in order to produce milk, however any male calves they produce offer very little value; they cannot be sold for beef yet the cost to raise them is substantial making them a very un-economical commodity, not to mention the environmental impact - it is well documented that cattle are responsible for 10% of greenhouse gas emissions. The suggestion is made that some farmers simply destroy male dairy calves after birth to help mitigate the problem.
The article also highlighted one approach aiming to resolve this issue, which is to implant dairy cows with the fertilised embryos of beef cattle. The result is the production of calves bred for beef sired by working dairy cows. This new trial has sparked interesting debate with both supporters and opponents speaking up.
Where's the Beef?' - New Scientist, 17th October 2020
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