Aberdeen Angus Cattle = Profit

Compared to Standard Beef

Data from the RWM Food Group published in August 2009 shows the average age at slaughter for Purebred and Angus x Friesian cattle is 19.5 months, this is 4.5 months quicker than the average of standard beef (other breeds) which stands at 24 months. This means beef farmers can on average keep more cattle per acre per year which is a huge advantage with land and feed prices at current high levels.
 

Higher Prices

Many abbatoirs offer a bonus of up to 15p per kilo for Angus beef that is sire verified over normal grid prices. This equates to an extra £45 per head margin for farmers who rear and finish Angus cattle. Many local butchers and local retailers offer even bigger bonuses and prices for Angus beef that they know is the best for their customers, who in turn are happy to pay a premium for high quality beef.
 

Efficient to grow and profitable

The table below was prepared by Mole Valley Farmers, it shows how simple it is to grow Angus x Friesian cattle on a forage based system and how profitable they can be.  

Income:
  £ per head Notes
  756 270kg @ 280p / kg (target rate, 0+4L)
Costs:
  £ per head Notes
Calf 300 12-14 week calf
Concentrate Feed 175 Estimate 1t specialist compound
Forage 100 Estimate 5t conserved forage @ £15/t & 5t fresh grass @ £5/t
Straw 25  
Vet Med 25  
Miscellaneous 20  
Total Costs 645  
Margin 111

 
Summary of Aberdeen Angus production benefits:

  Aberdeen Angus Continental breeds (mixed) Holstein bulls/steers
Above average marbling score (based on Aus meat grading system)
Y
N
Y

Early maturing (slaughter under 20 months)

Y
Y
Y
Good feed conversion at grass without supplementary feeding
Y
N
N
Low concentrate feed at finishing period (below 1.1t concentrate feed)
Y
N
N
Average finished carcass weight to give good quality thick cut steaks with good appearance
Y
N
N
Premium on offer as consumers understand the breed
Y
N
N
Source: Blade Farming SW. Information based on dairy bred Angus compared with dairy bred continental cattle. The sample of cattle were all reared and finished through a dedicated group of contracted farms operating to the same protocols.
  • For more information on our herd of pedigree Aberdeen Angus, please call 01531 890 810 or Contact Us today!