Jersey

Characteristics

Jersey is a dairy breed from the island of Jersey, selected for efficiency and high concentrations of milk fat and protein. It is not a specialised beef breed, so Jersey beef products should be described by animal category, age and carcass specification.

It is one of the major small-framed dairy breeds. The American Jersey Cattle Association gives about 1,000 lb, or 454 kg, as average mature cow weight; stature is linearly scored at the hip rather than set as one mandatory value.

Taste

A well-finished Jersey can express very intense beef flavour, buttery and lightly sweet notes, and a juicy, melting texture supported by intramuscular fat. Choose it for an unusual tasting or for clients seeking more flavour in a smaller portion: well-aged rib and loin on the grill, with mature cow cuts in rich braises and ragù.