Abstract
In the 21st century, the U.S. livestock industry has been following its intensification path, ramping up the production of meat, milk, and eggs. The country ranks high in the world in terms of the production of, and trade in these agricultural products. The industry's major development trends continue to rest on increased input productivity through improved animal feeding and welfare practices, achievements in selection and breeding, and the use of cutting-edge technologies. The industry has also seen certain structural changes, such as farm enlargement and consolidation, increased regional and business specialization, and greater food production and supply chain integrity. There have also been upward trends in the industrialization of U.S. livestock production, including the broader use of biotechnologies, production and marketing contracts, and the greater availability and use of agricultural extension and information support services. Milk producers continue to enjoy substantial support from the federal government.
Keywords
animal husbandry, production, family farm, regional and economic specialization, vertical integration, cooperation, government programs to support milk producers, scientific and information support
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