Implementation and Benefits of Beta-Agonists in Beef Production
Nathan A Pyatt1, Michael S Brown1, Lee-Anne J Walter2
1Elanco Animal Health, Indianapolis, IN 46278, USA.
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Food Animal Practice
|January 14, 2026
Summary
Beta-adrenergic agonists (β-AA) improve beef production efficiency and carcass leanness. These compounds offer economic benefits for cattle feeders and packers, enhancing growth performance and sustainability.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Agricultural Economics
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Beta-adrenergic agonists (β-AA) are widely used in beef cattle production.
- These compounds are known to influence growth performance and carcass characteristics.
- Previous research has quantified the effects of specific β-AA like ractopamine hydrochloride, zilpaterol hydrochloride, and lubabegron fumarate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the effects of β-AA on beef production efficiency.
- To highlight the economic returns associated with β-AA use for cattle feeders and beef packers.
- To review the impact of β-AA on carcass leanness and emissions intensity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of numerous research experiments.
- Analysis of published data on live gain and carcass characteristics.
- Evaluation of the additive effects of β-AA with other growth-enhancing technologies.
Main Results:
- β-AA enhance beef production efficiency, carcass leanness, and reduce emissions intensity.
- Consistent economic returns are observed for cattle feeders and beef packers.
- The response to β-AA is additive with other growth-enhancing technologies, showing incremental improvements.
Conclusions:
- β-AA provide significant benefits for beef production, including improved efficiency and leanness.
- These agents contribute to sustainability and profitability in the late feeding period.
- The additive nature of β-AA response supports their integration with other production technologies.
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