Grain-Finished Beef

Grain-finished beef comes from cattle that receive grain or a grain-based
ration during the finishing stage. It does not necessarily mean the animal
spent its entire life eating grain.

Why use grain?

Grain is energy dense. A carefully managed finishing ration can support
efficient weight gain and fat deposition and can contribute to the marbling
and eating characteristics commonly associated with conventional Canadian beef.

What happens before finishing?

Many grain-finished cattle begin life with their mothers on pasture and
continue consuming forage through much of their growing period. Grain may
be introduced later as part of the finishing program.

Are all grain programs the same?

No. Farms differ considerably. Some supplement pasture with a relatively
small amount of grain. Others use higher-energy finishing rations. The
length of the finishing period also varies.

What grains are used?

Depending on the region and farm, rations may contain barley, corn, oats,
wheat or other feed ingredients together with forage, minerals and supplements.