Why is high feed efficiency important in meat/terminal sire breeds?

High feed efficiency is particularly important in meat or terminal sire breeds because it directly impacts the economic viability of livestock production. When animals convert feed into body weight effectively, it leads to lower feed costs per unit of meat produced. Given that feed is often one of the largest expenses in livestock management, optimizing feed efficiency allows producers to maximize profits.

This means that animals with higher feed efficiency require less feed to gain the same amount of weight compared to less efficient animals. Consequently, the lower overall feed requirements not only decrease production costs but can also provide a competitive advantage in the marketplace. While other factors such as meat quality, breeding potential, and reproduction rates are important in sheep management practices, the immediate economic benefit gained from reducing feed costs through high feed efficiency is a critical aspect for producers focused on meat production.