Murray Grey Carcass Quality & Genomic Testing
Murray Greys consistently have excellent meat quality, and a higher likelihood to grade choice or prime than some other breeds, especially on grass alone.
Murray Grey genetics are more likely to produce tender beef than any other breed. This is why we genomic test our cattle, because we believe tenderness and marbling are breed characteristics that must be maintained. At this time we host a large proprietary database containing hundreds of Murray Grey profiles to better understand how genomic scores relate to inherited values and actual phenotype measurements (such as scan data), and how all of this information interacts with our environment. We do not believe any measurement system is 100% accurate, however we do believe in the importance of utilizing as many tools as possible to produce a better animal.
Murray Greys are likely to score 7 or higher for tenderness, in contrast the AAA reports an average score of 3.
We have repeatedly noticed the difference between higher and lower scoring beef many times, and after multiple taste tests, no longer prefer to keep a steer for our beef program that is under a score of 7.
Our herd bulls may vary in scores depending on what we seek as priority with each mating and market condition. Not every animal with say, a tenderness score of 10, is guaranteed to be a better animal, we view this more as a cherry on top with consideration towards higher leaning scores.
Changes in phenotype and carcass yield can occur with repetition in extreme selections (ex Wagyu) and that must be taken into consideration while finding balance in carcass quality and profitability. You may find a connection with say, myostatin carrying animals, who exhibit both tenderness and carcass yield, however may sacrifice marbling ability. These connections are vital to discovering where modern testing capabilities can help build a better animal without the inconsistent crutch of genetic mutations.
We have found it is not advisable to chase numbers in any regard and rather look at a fully balanced package suitable for one’s environment and current needs with the foundation of an old fashioned, boots on the ground, strict culling program.
