Forage quality of two cover crop grazing systems and meat quality of organic beef from crossbred dairy steers finished on forages

Abstract

This study analyzed the yield, forage quality, and mineral composition of organic winter rye and winter wheat in grazing systems, and analyzed the meat quality, fatty acids, and consumer acceptability of beef from Holstein and crossbred organic dairy steers finished on winter rye and winter wheat pastures. Steers (n = 30) were assigned to one of three replicate breed groups at birth: (1) Holstein (n = 10), (2) crossbreeds comprised of Montbéliarde, Viking Red, and Holstein (n = 10), and (3) crossbreeds comprised of Normande, Jersey, and Viking Red (n = 10). Breed groups were randomly assigned to graze either winter rye or winter wheat during their finishing phase. The results suggest that winter rye and winter wheat cover crops are viable options for grazing cattle, and suggest beef from crossbred dairy steers leads to an improved fatty acid profile and greater consumer acceptability compared to Holstein steers.