Betaine Effects in Feedlot Steers

Betaine is used by the cattle industry to increase weight and meat quality in beef cattle. It is derived from several natural sources, most notably sugar beets. Betaine is typically fed to cattle as a supplement.

  1. Weight

    • In a study reported in the Journal of Animal Science, steers fed a corn-based diet supplemented by feed-grade betaine had thicker backfat and a greater dry matter intake than steers in a control group. Body weight and fat deposition increased in feedlot steers fed a "high-concentrate" diet supplemented by betaine, according to a study published in Professional Animal Scientist.

    Marbling

    • Marbling refers to fat running through trimmed cuts of beef. It is generally appreciated for enhancing the flavor of beef. The study published in Journal of Animal Science reported that supplementing feed with betaine did not effect the marbling scores of feedlot steers. The study reported in Professional Animal Scientist indicated no effect on fat deposition when supplemental betaine was fed during the finishing stage.

    Conclusion

    • Although adding betaine as a feed supplement has been shown to increase body weight in feedlot steers, the latter study reported that betaine actually decreases fat deposition. Additional study is suggested, to determine whether including betaine supplements in the diet of feedlot steers is economically recommended.