Dairies Turn to Beef Embryos for Bigger Returns

Some California dairy farmers are finding a new way to make the most out of their herds, and it is not the usual crossbreeding. A recent Ag Alert from the California Farm Bureau says more dairies are using embryo transfers, with dairy cows carrying purebred beef embryos like Angus. The result is calves that, even at just a day old, are valued hundreds of dollars higher than crossbreds, giving farmers another way to ride the strong beef market.

The approach has been catching on in the San Joaquin Valley, helped by advances in reproductive technology that have improved success rates and made the process more affordable. Some producers say pregnancy rates with embryos are now as good as, or even better than, artificial insemination, especially during the summer months when fertility usually drops.

It is not without risk. The costs are higher up front, and the return does not come until the calves are sold months later. But more dairies are finding the numbers pencil out.

Check out the full story in this Ag Alert: https://www.agalert.com/california-ag-news/archives/august-13-2025/dairies-use-ivf-to-tap-strong-beef-market/