The Different Classes of Slaughter Cows

Jul 19, 2024

By Dr. Andrew Griffith

Following last week’s discussion on slaughter cow prices, a question was asked concerning the different classes of slaughter cows. Slaughter cow grades are based on fat cover. A breaking utility cow is in a body condition score (BCS) of 7-9 which means she is fat/obese. A boning utility cow is in a BCS of 4-6. Most producers will want their breeding herd in a 5-6 BCS. Lean/light are in a BCS of 1-3, which means they are extremely thin.

This is a very generalized explanation of slaughter cow grades, and there are more specifics that determine the final price. For instance, if an animal is expected to produce more lean beef than another animal relative to their total weight then it will receive a higher price. Some things to look for include looking at the fat over the ribs, hooks and pins. If the ribs are well covered then it is good to look at the fat cover on the hooks and pins to get an idea of the quality of animal.

In today’s market, there is a strong demand for lean grinding beef, which is what is supporting slaughter cow prices.

Source : osu.edu

Video: Refeeding Syndrome After Weaning - Dr. Theo van Kempen

In this episode of The Swine Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Theo van Kempen, an independent consultant with extensive swine nutrition and product development experience, explains how refeeding syndrome can affect newly weaned piglets. He discusses phosphate depletion, edema, intestinal health, oxygen delivery, and high-glycemic nursery diets, and presents nutritional strategies designed to reduce postweaning challenges. Listen now on all major platforms!

Click here to read the full research article: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40710...

“Refeeding syndrome develops when feeding resumes after fasting, creating an acute phosphate deficiency as metabolism rapidly accelerates and cellular phosphate requirements increase.”

Meet the guest: Dr. Theo van Kempen / theo-van-kempen-26181b15 holds a Ph.D. in Nutrition from the University of Illinois and has extensive experience in swine nutrition, digestive health, nutrient management, and feed product development. His career includes academic research at North Carolina State University and leadership positions in animal nutrition R&D. He currently works independently in product development, including nutraceutical and nutritional innovation. Listen to Dr. Theo van Kempen on The Swine Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, available on all major platforms!