U.S. Dairy Farmers Boost Profits with Beef Crossbreeding Methods
Beef-on-dairy crossbreeding is becoming popular among dairy farmers across the U.S. Traditionally, dairy farms used dairy genetics mainly to produce replacement heifers.
Male dairy calves had limited value due to their lower-quality meat, often sold cheaply for veal. Now, farmers are improving their earnings by breeding dairy cows with beef bulls, producing calves that perform better in beef markets.
This practice is widely adopted, with about 72% of dairy farms in the U.S. actively using beef genetics. The calves produced from this method have better meat quality, higher muscle mass, and improved feed efficiency.
These traits make them desirable for beef packers, allowing farmers to earn premiums of $350 to $700 per calf, according to a 2024 survey by Purina.
Crossbred calves benefit both dairy and beef industries. Dairy farmers earn more money by selling calves at higher prices, protecting their farms from unpredictable milk markets.
At the same time, the beef industry receives a steady supply of high-quality calves, essential during recent cattle shortages caused by drought.
Between 2002 and 2019, dairy-origin cattle accounted for up to 24% of U.S. beef production, indicating their importance in the beef market.
The sale of beef semen for crossbreeding has increased significantly, from 1.2 million units in 2010 to 9.4 million units in 2023. Most of this semen is used in dairy herds, highlighting the strong adoption rate.
Beef-on-dairy crossbreeding also influences milk markets. With fewer purebred dairy calves born, dairy farms expand their herds more slowly, preventing oversupply and price drops in milk markets. This new approach helps dairy producers manage market risks better, providing additional financial stability.
The rise of beef-on-dairy crossbreeding marks a significant change in farming practices. By creating calves that are more valuable in beef markets, dairy farmers can ensure stable incomes, and the beef industry gains a reliable cattle source.
As crossbreeding continues to grow, it will reshape farming strategies, benefiting farmers and consumers alike.