subject: Raising Goats For Meat - Tips And Requirements For A Profitable Business [print this page] The initial step in rearing goats for meat is selecting the right breed. This type of meat is given importance because it is mostly lean and has a palatable taste when cooked. Goat meat production has grown profitable because more groups of people are including this type of meat in their diets. Meat from any type of goat will most likely have the same taste. However, choosing the right breed that is best for goat meat production should be done by any farm owner.
In rearing goats for meat, farmers choose those that can adapt to its environment, have higher reproductive rate and overall carcass value. Growth rate and litter size are also important factors. Farmers like goats that are easy to maintain. Breeds that are difficult to maintain such as those sensitive to temperature changes are very costly and are not good for the goat meat business. In growth farming, goats that grow up quickly are important because they are easier to sell. The quality of meat from younger goats is also considered to be better than those are older. The age of the goat during slaughter affects the flavor and tenderness of its meat. Goats that yield suitable litter sizes are more favorable in rearing goats for meat.
The price of commercial goat meat is affected by the value of the carcass once it is already in the market. The prices are more competitive if the meat source is common. Exotic meat from goat comes from ones that are not commercially produced. However, the market for exotic type is very small. Having less buyers for a certain type of goat meat would mean less profit.
Rearing goats for meat that will be used for profit must meet certain qualifications. Nowadays high-protein lean goat meat is an in demand meat. Ethnic groups often include goat meat in their traditional diet. Even health conscious buyers choose this type of meat. The following are needed in rearing goats for meat: pasture, buck or male goat and doe or female ones. Other goat farming needs include building facilities. A profitable goat business is only possible if you provide right kind and amount of facilities for your animals.
Rearing goats for meat as compared to other livestock is cheaper and easier to maintain. Hay and mixed grains can be used for feeds and pasture which are all not too costly. Purchasing expensive pure-breed ones is not necessary for a profitable goat meat operation. It is more important to spend on high-quality buck and does to start with your business.
Organic goat producers are gaining popularity in the marketing side of the goat meat operation. Organic goat meat is in demand in food institutions such as restaurants, grocery stores and supermarkets. In rearing goats for meat keep precise records of young goats or kids. Monitor kids' birth weight, market weights and weaning weights. Prepare a clean chart and update them regularly. Records are important and should be readily available especially for potential buyers who are interested in knowing more their purchase.
