Texas FFA Livestock Judging PracticeTest

Breeds of cattle that are used for both milk and meat production are referred to as what?

1. Meat breeds

2. Milk breeds

3. Dual-purpose breeds

4. Specialty breeds

The correct answer is: Dual-purpose breeds

Cattle breeds that serve both milk and meat production are classified as dual-purpose breeds. This designation highlights their versatility in providing both high-quality milk and beef. Typically, dual-purpose breeds are developed to balance traits that optimize milk production, such as lactation efficiency and higher butterfat content, with characteristics favorable for meat quality, like muscle conformation and growth rate. This adaptability makes dual-purpose breeds valuable for farmers looking to maximize the outputs from a single herd, particularly in mixed farming operations where both meat and dairy products are needed. Understanding the dual-purpose classification aids in selecting breeds that can meet diverse agricultural needs efficiently. Additionally, many well-known breeds, like the Jersey or Shorthorn, exemplify this dual-purpose capability, contributing to their popularity.