Cow-Calf Certification Practice Exam

True or False: Cows that consume grass tend to have yellow external fat due to beta-carotene.

1. True

2. False

3. Only true for certain breeds

4. Not significant

The correct answer is: True

Cows that consume grass often have yellow external fat because of the presence of beta-carotene, which is a pigment found in grasses and green plants. When cows eat forage rich in beta-carotene, the pigment is absorbed and can accumulate in the fat tissues of the animal, resulting in a yellowish coloration. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable in cattle that have a diet predominantly composed of fresh grass. The degree of yellowing can vary based on several factors, including the type of forage consumed and the individual animal's metabolism. Nevertheless, the general principle holds true across various contexts, making the statement accurate. While certain breeds may have different fat deposition characteristics, the effect of beta-carotene on fat coloration is a widespread occurrence in cattle.