Industrially Finished Calves: A Water Footprint-Profitability Paradox

Frikkie Maré,Henry Jordaan

doi:10.3390/w11122565

Abstract

The feed conversion rate is one of the most important determinants of the water footprint (WF) of beef and is known to vary between different cattle breeds. The objective of this study was to estimate the WF of industrially finished calves of seven different cattle breeds on two different feeding regimes: normal pre-determined feeding period (NPFP) and profit-maximising feeding period (PMFP). Data were collected by finishing 35 calves of each of the seven breeds in a feedlot. Green, blue and grey WFs were estimated for the different feeding regimes, and a feedlot simulation provided the effect of the different feeding regimes on the water footprint, financial margin and the water footprint per rand of margin. The results indicated that the water footprint differed notably between breeds on the same feeding regime, as well as between the feeding regimes. While the PMFP had a 1% higher water footprint per year in a typical feedlot than the NPFP, the financial margin was 33% more, resulting in a 24% decrease in the water footprint per South African rand of margin. The contributions of green, blue and grey water to the total WF were 91.5%, 2.5% and 6%, respectively, irrespective of breed or feeding regime.

Highlights

The feedlot sector plays an important role in the beef value chain of many countries
The total water footprint (WF) per animal for the different breeds, as well as the WF per kilogram of weight gained in the feedlot, are presented in Table 3 (Appendix A contains the same table (Table A2), with some extra information that was omitted from Table 3.) for the normal pre-determined feeding period (NPFP) and profit-maximising feeding period (PMFP), respectively
The different feeding periods and extra weight gained during the PMFP should be brought into consideration, and the WF/kg weight gained should rather be used for the comparison

Summary

Introduction

The feedlot sector plays an important role in the beef value chain of many countries. According to Deblitz [1], the global importance of feedlots is increasing, with countries like Argentina and Brazil following in the footsteps of countries like the USA, Canada, Australia and South Africa. Approximately 65% to 75% of all cattle are being marketed through feedlots [2], while the approximate figures for Argentina and Australia are 50% and 33%, respectively [1]. In the case of the USA and Canada, almost all produce beef stems from the feedlot sector [1]. Beef is often criticised by researchers as the animal product with the highest total water footprint (WF). There are substantial differences between grazing, mixed and industrial production systems in terms of the WF of a kilogram of beef.

Objectives

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Results

Discussion

Conclusion