The Great Debate: Why Choose Herefords Over Other Breeds?
Herefords have dominated Beef + Lamb New Zealand Dairy Beef Progeny Tests for over a decade, consistently outperforming other breeds. But what sets them apart and makes them the breed of choice for farmers? Words Kate Taylor.
The dominance of Herefords in the Dairy Beef Progeny Tests is no accident. Hereford breeders have long focused on improving key traits through selective breeding, ensuring the breed meets the performance criteria set by independent selectors for Beef + Lamb New Zealand. With 14,000 registered Hereford calves born annually, the large genetic pool accelerates the speed of selection, contributing to the breed’s sustained dominance.
While other breeds like Speckle Park, Wagyu, and Charolais have had their time in the spotlight, Herefords have remained the breed of choice. This consistency speaks to the breed’s strong genetics and
reliable performance.
400-Day Weight and Calving Traits
The 2023 Dairy Beef Progeny Test results show Herefords are still leading the pack in crucial traits, particularly 400-day weight. Herefords ranked 1–5 for 400-day weight, with seven Herefords in the top 10. This reflects the breed’s long-standing focus on growth traits that benefit finishers and calf rearers. Weight is still a key factor for profitability, and Herefords’ superior performance in this area makes them a top choice for farmers.
Feed Efficiency and Global Research
In addition to excelling in the Dairy Beef Progeny Tests, Herefords are at the forefront of feed efficiency. American Herefords, for example, have been leading the way with their sire referencing programme at Olsen Ranches. With over 25 years of data on feed intake the results are clear: Herefords are an exceptionally feed-efficient breed. This means farmers can achieve better results while reducing input costs.
Value vs Colour Debate
Despite Herefords’ proven strengths, the breed faces challenges due to the perception that Angus animals command higher premiums. However, these premiums are not as significant as often believed. Recently, Alliance removed the premium for Angus animals with a marble score of 1, allowing all breeds to qualify for this incentive if they meet the marbling criteria. This shift is positive, as it gives all producers, including Hereford breeders, equal access to premiums for quality beef.
Herefords offer a clear advantage to farmers. With proven success in growth, feed efficiency, and marbling, they are a breed that delivers both performance and profitability.
Their ongoing success in the Dairy Beef Progeny Tests and global feed efficiency trials ensures that Herefords will continue to thrive in the beef industry for years to come.
