Performance of male dairy calves of different breeds raised on various types of grasslands for veal production

Summary

Pasture‑based veal systems can improve animal welfare and resource efficiency compared to indoor production. In this study, 72 calves from three breeds were raised either indoors or on intensive, permanent, or alpine grasslands, revealing significant effects of environment on growth and carcass traits. Indoor calves had the highest carcass weights and daily gains, while pasture calves—especially on permanent grasslands—grew more slowly, though breed had little influence on growth. Management and environment strongly affected meat quality, but further data on matured meat and economic outcomes are needed to fully evaluate grass‑based veal production.