Latest updates

Does custom processed meat need mark of inspection?

Producer Question from 2010

Q:  We are a state-inspected meat processing plant. We are told by the inspectors that freezer beef that we custom butcher and process does not need the mark of inspection, even though these people are buying the beef from the farmers and they are not the sole owner until the meat is processed. Is what the inspectors told us correct? (February 8, 2010)

Stocking rates in high density grazing scenarios

Producer Question from 2010

Q:  I recently read of a survey about stocking rates in high density grazing scenarios. This reported 200-500% increased stocking rate on ranches practicing HDG. (March 1, 2010)

What temperature range to keep non-frozen packaged beef?

Producer Question from 2010

Q:  Is there a recommended product temperature range for the display of non-frozen, packaged beef? (April 19, 2010)

A:  A good recommendation is less than 40° F and greater than 30° F for best shelf life. Most will target a temperature of 37 degrees. The colder the meat case the longer the shelf life of the product. Temperature variation in the meat case needs to be checked as the bottom of the case may be cold and overloading the case may place meat products in warmer temperatures.

Connection between deworming and miscarriage?

Producer Question from 2010

Q:  Bought a few cows at sale on Wed. Vet had them at 7 months breed. Brought them home and dewormed with Ivomec pour-on on Saturday. The next day one of the cows had miscarried. Is there a connection between deworming and miscarriage or was it going to happen anyway? (July 24, 2010)

High altitude disease and cattle

Producer Question from 2010

Q:  Are cattle with high altitude disease safe to eat? (September 5, 2010)

Price for ground ear corn?

Producer Question from 2010

Q:  What is the value of ground ear corn per ton. We figure silage at about ten times the price of corn. Having trouble coming up with a price for ground ear corn. (September 21, 2010)

A:  The energy value of regular corn is 88% TDN. The energy value of ear corn is around 80% TDN. That makes ear corn about 90% ((80/88)x100) the energy value of corn. Corn and ear corn are both energy sources.