Fetal programming

implications for beef cattle production

Abstract

Depending on timing, magnitude, and duration of nutrient limitation or supplementation, it is possible that early measures in life, such as calf birth BW, may be unaffected, whereas measures later in life, such as weaning BW, carcass characteristics, and reproductive traits, may be influenced. This body of research provides compelling evidence of a fetal programming response to maternal nutrition in beef cattle. Future competitiveness of the US beef industry will continue to be dependent on the use of high-forage diets to meet the majority of nutrient requirements. Consequences of nutrient restriction or supplementation must be considered not only on individual animal performance, but also the developing fetus and its subsequent performance throughout life.