What are the two main categories of beef cattle production systems?

The two main categories of beef cattle production systems are found in seedstock and commercial production. Seedstock production refers to the breeding and selling of cattle primarily for genetic improvement and breeding stock. Producers in this category focus on ensuring high-quality genetics that can be used in commercial herds to enhance traits such as growth rate, feed efficiency, and meat quality.

On the other hand, commercial production involves raising cattle primarily for meat production. This category includes both grass-fed and grain-fed production systems, but the emphasis is on the end product—beef. Commercial producers typically operate larger herds and are more focused on market demands and operational efficiency.

Identifying these two systems captures the essential difference in objectives — seedstock aims at improving livestock genetics for breeding, while commercial production focuses on serving consumer needs through beef production.