ANALYSIS OF ECONOMIC INDEXES IN INTENSIVE BEEF CATTLE REGIME

Abstract

Beef cattle farming plays a significant role in the Brazilian economy, with the country being the world's largest exporter of beef. The feedlot finishing of early-maturing Nelore cattle has proven to be an efficient alternative to increase productivity, reduce the production cycle, and meet market demands. This study presents the economic analysis of a feedlot finishing system at Fazenda Cana Brava de Baixo, located in Buriti de Goiás, focusing on 46 male Nelore calves originating from artificial insemination. The animals underwent an adaptation phase with pasture and supplementation for 44 days, followed by confinement—one group for 160 days and another for 170 days—with five dietary changes according to weight gain. The diet consisted of corn silage and concentrate produced on the farm, using inputs acquired from the COMIGO cooperative and the Confinare Vital mineral supplement. Feeding represented the main cost of the system, accounting for up to 90% of the total cost per animal. Management was conducted in a rational and humane manner, with family labor reducing operational costs. Zootechnical management included monitoring of average daily gain, periodic weighings, sanitary control, and adaptation of facilities. The study demonstrates that the economic viability of feedlot finishing is directly related to productive efficiency, cost control, and strategic planning. The use of early-maturing animals, balanced nutrition, and proper management are essential to ensure the system’s profitability, highlighting the importance of integrating technology, management, and animal welfare.