Simplot Livestock Highlights Genetic Selection Gains
Randall Raymond detailed cattle crossbreeding successes at the recent Beef Improvement Federation Symposium.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Agriculture
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Simplot Livestock is demonstrating success with its two-decade-long genetic selection program aimed at boosting cattle productivity. The firm uses targeted crossbreeding of Angus, Hereford, and Charolais genetics to improve performance metrics and profitability.
Why it matters
The program helps cattle producers enhance economic returns through data-driven breeding strategies that prioritize both growth efficiency and meat quality. By emphasizing specific traits like marbling, the company aims to sustain long-term demand for high-quality beef.
Simplot's targeted crossbreeding program has run for 22 years, delivering an added value of more than $100 per calf. The company utilizes this strategy to drive consistent performance gains across their herds.
The players
Simplot Livestock
This agricultural entity manages extensive cattle operations and utilizes data-driven genetic programs to improve livestock productivity.
Randall Raymond
He is an expert representative for Simplot Livestock who presented the firm's genetic selection strategies at the national symposium.
Beef Improvement Federation
This national organization coordinates research and programs focused on improving the beef cattle industry through genetic advancement.
The details
The firm utilizes a feedback loop that collects data from cow-calf operations, feedyards, and packing plants to refine its genetic profiles. This system includes breeding black heifers to Hereford bulls and white-faced heifers to Angus bulls to produce specific, high-performing calf types.
Timeline
2004: Simplot launched its targeted crossbreeding program.
2016-2026: Cattle average daily gain and dry matter intake increased.
October 30, 2026: Randall Raymond presented findings at the Beef Improvement Federation Symposium in Boise.
Market Landscape
This strategy follows a pattern set by the Beef Improvement Federation's genetic evaluation standards by integrating field-collected performance data into breeding decisions. The company's focus on terminal and maternal lines positions it to capitalize on increasing demand for standardized, high-quality beef products.
These genetic selection improvements contribute to more efficient beef production, which helps stabilize supply and quality for consumers. The focus on USDA Prime and upper-tier Choice qualifications ensures that shoppers consistently access higher-quality beef products at the grocery store.
The takeaway
Data-driven breeding programs offer a reliable method for cattle producers to increase profit margins while meeting consumer demand for high-quality meat. Producers can implement similar feedback loops by tracking performance metrics from birth through processing to identify areas for genetic improvement.
Further reading
For more information on industry best practices, visit the Agriculture section.
More information
View the complete BIF Symposium presentation video for more technical details.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Thefencepost.
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