Raising of cattle for meat. The muscle from cattle over 6 months of age is beef and from younger cattle, veal. Beef is a highly nutritious food, containing approximately 20% protein; it is rich in essential amino acids and minerals, and is a good source of the B vitamins (B₆, B₁₂, niacin, and riboflavin). Beef also supplies a generous portion of the daily dietary iron requirements.