DNA technology can help beef producers make more confident decisions about replacement heifers. FACT.
The only economically important traits producers can learn about are tenderness, marbling and feed efficiency with DNA technology in beef cattle. FICTION. Beef producers have the option of choosing a comprehensive DNA profile that includes multiple-marker analyses for more than a dozen economically important traits.
Collecting DNA samples can be easily worked in with fall beef cattle-processing routines. FACT. DNA samples can be collected with a tissue collection device that is easy to use, and producers can apply a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag at the same time.
Cattle must be at least 1 year old to get valuable data from DNA technology. FICTION. DNA technology can provide inside information about a calf from day one to help producers make more confident decisions about individuals early in every stage of production.
DNA technology can help producers learn about cattle they are weaning this fall. FACT. By collecting DNA samples at weaning time, producers can gain insights about each calf’s genetic potential early in life, which can help point each calf down the most profitable path.