Which breed of cattle is known for being lean and prone to double muscling?

The Belgian Blue breed of cattle is recognized for its unique genetic trait of double muscling, which results in a lean build and increased muscle mass compared to other breeds. This trait is associated with a mutation in the myostatin gene, which regulates muscle growth. As a result, Belgian Blue cattle are often leaner, producing more meat with less fat, making them popular in beef production where efficiency and yield are essential. This abnormal muscle growth gives them a distinctive and muscular appearance, setting them apart from breeds such as Hereford, Angus, and Charolais, which do not exhibit this double muscling phenomenon.

In contrast, other breeds, while also important in beef production, do not have the same genetic predisposition for double muscling and thus have different characteristics regarding muscle and fat composition.