About Belgian Blue Beef
The Belgian Blue breed of beef cattle is relatively new to the U.S., but it is gaining acceptance with beef breeders and dairymen very quickly. Belgian Blue cattle are a result of selective breeding done in Belgium by Professor Hanset at the AI Center in the Province of Liege. In the late fifties, a debate arose among the breeders, the question being whether to maintain the duality purpose type as it was or to select for more muscling. The muscling prevailed. Concerning the critical period, three famous AI sires are to be cited: Gideon and two of his grandsons, Ganache and Vaiseur. From them came the mold for the breed.
Characteristics
The Belgian Blue is a large sized animal with rounded outline and prominent muscles. The shoulder, back, loin, and rump are heavily muscled. The back is straight, rump is sloping, tail set is prominent and skin is fine. It has fine but strong legs and can walk easily.
The color can be white, blue roan, or sometimes black. The breed is known for its quiet temperament. This breed of cattle is hardy and it adapts itself to different climates and environments. It is an early maturing breed and an intensive production system can lower calving age to 25 months. The gestation is a relatively short 281 days.
Meat Quality
Belgian Blue meat compared to Hereford-Angus is more tender, has less fat and has 16% less marbling. Belgian Blues produce a 5 to 9% higher percentage retail product than other sire breeds. Our meat at Ozark Belgian Blue Beef is at the highest standard. Our cattle are not given steroids, animal by-products or antibiotics. They are fed natural grains, grass and hay. This makes our meat the best available.
Nutritional Comparisons
3-3.5 Ounce Average Serving
| Calories | Fat: Total | Cholesterol | Protein | ||
| Belgian Blue Cross | 96 | 0.76% | 22 mg | 21.80% | |
| Fish | 78 | 9.00% | 50mg | 18.80% | |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breast |
130 | 4.10% | 41mg | 22.90% | |
| Traditional American Beef | 188 | 25-35% | 76mg | 24gm | |
| Lite American Beef | 133 (45% fat) |
15-25% | 76 mg | 25gm | |
| Beefalo | 119 | 4.2% | 47mg | NA | |