In this brief article, we will answer the question, “Where does beef come from?” and provide information on the source of beef, how is corned beef obtained, the source of beef jerky and wagyu beef, the difference in the beef texture of different animals as well as benefits of beef.
Where does beef come from?
The beef comes from China, Brazil, and the United States. The beef industry is quite booming in these 3 countries.
Cattle can be fed on grass and when they mature physically, they are slaughtered to obtain beef. There are many kinds of the beef present. For instance, ground beef, finely ground beef, etc.
What is the source of beef?
The beef comes from both cows and bulls. Cows can be used for producing calves, milk, and also for meat.
Once the calves are born, they are fed on grass for approximately 2-8 months. A quarter of these calves are slaughtered whereas the rest of them can be used for milk production or other purposes.
The calves that are slaughtered for meat can be given a large number of grains to feed on. These calves then grow up into cows/ bulls after 12-24 months. Post this, they are sent to a local grocer.
Usually, oxen are used for purpose of beef. This is because cows are used for producing milk and calves wherein bull is used for agricultural purposes. The males are castrated which makes them oxen.
The castration can be done either through hormonal, chemical, or surgical means. Males that are not castrated are bulls. The meat of an ox is more favorable to consume as it is more tender and tasty.
Where is corned beef obtained from?
Corned beef can be a brisket that is cut from the front portion of the beef. This cut is quite tough and has many connective tissues. The weight of the beef is approximately around 10 pounds.
Corned beef can be added to brine along with salt. This can make the beef taste more flavorful. The beef then is cooked to make them more tender.
Where does roast beef come from?
Roast beef is generally eaten as a main dish. Roasted beef can also be a part of sandwiches, sirloin, and chuck roast.
Roasts can be obtained from the rib, shoulder, and loin portions of the cattle. It can also be taken from the butt, chest, leg, and back.
Where does beef jerky come from?
Beef jerky is obtained by marinating beef in a cured solution. This can then be dried. Beef jerky can be obtained from beef, calves, and cows. Cows are a more popular choice.
The meat can be cut into the form of strips and then they are kept inside the oven for cooking. It is available in Canada, Mexico, and the US.
Where does Wagyu beef come from?
Wagyu beef comes from Japanese cows. The cattle used for making Wagyu beef are primarily used for agricultural purposes. Wagyu beef is comparatively easier to produce. Females get mature earlier than 12 months.
What is the difference in the texture of meat from different animals?
The meat from calves is softer and lighter in color. It has a very mild flavor. Ox’s beef is softer and marbled.
The bull’s meat is not much preferable to consume. It is tough and lean. The flavor is pretty strong. Cow meat can be soft however, if the cows are older, the meat can become tougher.
What are some benefits of eating beef?
- Beef is a good source of vitamin B12. B12 can be found mostly in non-vegetarian products. Reduced B12 levels can induce fatigue, anemia, and tiredness.
- Beef can be a good source of zinc. Zinc is required for wound healing, immunity, and fertility. Zinc can also be required for the growth of children.
- Beef is a great source of protein. Protein helps in repairing the wear and tear of tissues. Loss of muscle mass is pretty common as you age. Consumption of beef can prevent loss of muscle mass.
- Beef is a rich source of iron. Iron present in beef is more bioavailable. As a result, it can reduce the probability of suffering from anemia. Iron deficiency anemia can result in tiredness, fatigue, weakness, and reduced concentration.
Excessive consumption of beef is not recommended. It contains elevated levels of cholesterol and saturated fats. Higher consumption has been linked to heart disease.
Conclusion
In this brief article, we have answered the question, “Where does beef come from?” and provided information on the source of beef, how is corned beef obtained, the source of beef jerky, wagyu beef, the difference in the beef texture of different animals as well as benefits of beef.
References
https://kidadl.com/facts/where-does-beef-come-from-does-beef-come-from-cows-or-bulls
