The unique appearance of the Belted Galloway attracts many new enthusiasts to the breed. In time, breeders who purchased Belties for their ornamental qualities are delighted to learn that these nifty critters do produce lean, high quality beef.

Carcass comparisons made in 1994 by Dr. A.R.C. Butson of Maple Brae Farms, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada between a half-dozen purebred Belties and an equal number of commercial cattle placed Belted Galloway beef low in saturated fat content as well as total fat average, and indicated high ratios of Omega 6 to Omega 3--the beneficial lineolic and linolenic acids. His conclusion: "Belted Galloway meat is more beneficial than pork loin, and about as good as roasting chicken." 

Many Belted Galloway breeders have waiting lists for their freezer beef. Marlin Sherbine's Highland Farm in Somerset, Pennsylvania prepares 15 to 25 steers for slaughter each year, and also maintains a commercial beef herd. Comparing the Belties to his commercial steers, Sherbine notes: "We have found that traditional breeds can gain as high as 4.5 to 5 lbs. a day with heavy feeding. Our smaller Belties show top daily gains of about 2.5 lbs. The Belties do not gain as much as fast -- but appear to eat only about 75% as much as larger breeds." 

More about Belted Galloway beef --
     Beltie Beef Low in Fat, High in Flavor
      The London Financial Times writes about Beltie Beef

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