Agricultural Economics Department
Date of this Version
9-21-2023
Document Type
Article
Citation
Saner, R. “Marketing Calves with Blemishes” CAP Series 23-0904, Center for Agricultural Profitability, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Sept. 21, 2023. DOI: 10.32873/unl.dc.cap016.
Abstract
Selling these calves with blemishes or color differences could improve your profit if you follow some of the recommended steps. However, it could also be a complete disaster, unless you understand the risks and work to reduce them. Traditionally, about one-half the value of beef is added after cattle leave the farm. Keeping those calves on the farm longer gives you the chance to retain more of the income for the same calf. Most calves with blemishes or differences in color won’t affect their quality of meat if fed right.