Cosmopolitan Breeds

Since they are perfectly suited to grazing systems, can adapt easily to a wide variety of different climatic and environmental situations and are characterized by easy calving and excellent beef quality, the Italian breeds have long been present on the international scene. They are raised on every continent and are used as excellent breeds for crosses with local cattle or zebus. In Latin America, the spread of the Italian breeds has taken place particularly because of their resistance to heat and tropical parasites, as well as early maturation traits observed when they are crossed with the Nelore zebu breed. In the United States, the Italian breeds are utilize as crosses with British breeds to decrease the percentage of fat in carcasses in order to meet current market requirements. The Italian breeds are also greatly prize din Australia and South Africa because of their adaptability and the noteworthy commercial characteristics of their carcasses. The Italian breeds are raised in a total of over twenty different countries, many of which have established national breed associations that acknowledge Italy as a reference point for selection activities and as the main source of insemination material.

The International Italian Beef-Cattle Association

In order to give the selection of Italian beef-cattle breeds a uniform worldwide policy, the International Italian Beef-Cattle Association was founded at ANABIC in 1995 and a number of different national breed associations have joined. The tasks of  IBC International include organizing  promotional events aimed towards spreading the Italian breeds from different countries, collaborating with government bodies, associations, consortiums and scientific institutes interested in the Italian breeds, disseminating information about these breeds and implementing all other activities that will help them ensure their success.