How old are cows when they are slaughtered?

Chef's answer
12 to 22 monthsAge at slaughter "typically" can be from 12 to 22 months of age for the high quality grade market. The reason for the range in age is that some calves are weaned and go directly to a feeding facility and are finished for slaughter.
Frequently asked Questions 🎓
Given the variation between different production systems, breeds and regions the age of lambs at slaughter varies widely from as young as 10 weeks of age to over 12 months but it is assumed that on average a UK lamb will be between 6 and 7 months old when slaughtered..
5 to 6 monthsAt 5 to 6 months old, turkeys are sent to the slaughterhouse. In the wild, they can live to be 10 years old.
The female calves are raised to replace older dairy cows in the milking herd. After three or four years of intense and stressful milk production, the females are sent to slaughter. Since they will never produce milk, male dairy calves are of little or no value to the dairy farmer and are sent to veal farms..
12 to 22 monthsAge at slaughter "typically" can be from 12 to 22 months of age for the high quality grade market. The reason for the range in age is that some calves are weaned and go directly to a feeding facility and are finished for slaughter.
Meat is not ready to be eaten right after slaughter. It needs time to become tender, which happens as connective tissues within the muscle break down.
The highest quality beef comes from animals that are under 36 months of age. Old cows produce highly acceptable beef if properly fattened and processed. Depending on the calf and the feeding regime, calves are best slaughtered between three and 16 weeks of age..
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