The Beef on Dairy Industry Report from Purina Animal Nutrition has returned with its second edition, spotlighting the rapid growth of beef-on-dairy cattle and the opportunities they bring to producers and the beef supply chain. Lawrence Williams, Beef on Dairy Development Specialist for Purina, emphasized that this evolving sector is reshaping both the dairy and beef industries.
“These crossbred calves grade out well, they perform consistently, and they provide a reliable supply for the food chain,” Williams explained. He noted that beef-on-dairy cattle now make up 12 to 15 percent of the fed cattle supply, helping fill gaps left by declining native cow herds.
Raising Calves with Intent
A key theme of the report is “raising calves with intent.” Williams described this as beginning with the consumer in mind: “Let’s begin with the end in mind and what they’re looking for. That means quality genetics, strong colostrum management, and ensuring nutrition and health standards are met early in life.”
Purina has developed targeted nutrition programs like PrimeStart, designed to enhance muscularity and marbling in beef-on-dairy calves. Research shows higher planes of nutrition early on can significantly increase red meat yield and consistency.
Industry Collaboration
The report also stresses communication across the supply chain. Feedlots increasingly expect calves to arrive with health data and performance records. Packers, meanwhile, want healthy animals that deliver on red meat yield and carcass quality. “This is really about people talking,” Williams said. “That’s how we lift ourselves out of the commodity mindset.”
Looking Ahead
Contributors to the report include experts from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Certified Angus Beef, and other industry leaders. Topics range from welfare and team training to carcass consistency and market alignment. Williams underscored that collaboration, genetics, and nutrition are the keys to keeping beef-on-dairy competitive long term.
The second edition of the Beef on Dairy Industry Report is now available at PurinaMills.com/dairy-beef.