The beef industry supplies food for 76 million Americans each year. This is the estimated number of US citizens who are eating beef products. Here are several interesting USDA livestock report facts about the beef industry:
1. Types of Cattle Breeds
The US beef industry relies on various types of breeds, each with different characteristics (size, weather tolerance and temperament). However, they all fall into two main categories:
- Bos indicus: Brahman, Brangus, Beefmaster, Simbra and Santa Gertrudis varieties. They are humped cattle, adapted to heat and humidity, therefore they are bred mostly in the southern part of US
- Bos taurus: Angus, Red Angus, Hereford and Shorthorn varieties. These are English and continental breeds, and represent the largest part of US livestock.
2. Every Part Is Used
Nothing goes to waste in the beef industry. Even the cowhide is very useful. The hide from one single animal can be made into 144 baseballs, 20 footballs or 12 basketballs.
3. Most Beef Is Eaten during Memorial Day
While the average American eats around 65 pounds of beef per year, the day with the absolute highest consumption of this type of meat is Memorial Day. Tying for the second place are the 4th of July and Labor Day.
