What is a vealer cattle?

Vealer cattle, also known as bob veal or milk-fed veal, are young calves that are raised specifically for the production of veal meat. They are typically male calves that are born into the dairy industry and are not needed for breeding purposes. Vealer calves are usually separated from their mothers shortly after birth and raised on a liquid diet, often consisting of milk replacer and other nutrients, to promote rapid growth and ensure the tenderness and pale colour of the meat.

The rearing of vealer cattle involves strict controls on the diet, housing, and management practices to optimise the quality of the veal meat. They are generally kept in individual hutches or pens that restrict movement to prevent muscle development and maintain the softness of the meat. The calves are usually slaughtered at a young age, typically between 10 and 26 weeks, resulting in meat with a delicate texture and flavour.

The production of vealer cattle has been the subject of ethical debates and animal welfare concerns due to the intensive confinement and limited mobility of the calves, as well as the early age of slaughter. Some countries and regions have implemented regulations and guidelines to ensure the humane treatment and proper care of vealer cattle throughout the production process.