Zebu cattle farming is booming in India, but the zebu is a strange animal to most of us. We've put together some facts about this unique breed of cow that might interest you as they grow in popularity around the world.
Zebu cattle are a type of cattle that originated in the countries around the Indian subcontinent. They are used primarily for production of milk, and they provide meat that is lower in fat than beef, but higher in calories than chicken or turkey. Zebu are also considered to have a higher nutritional value than many other types of meat due to their high proportion of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and vitamin A.
The cattle are well adapted to living in hot climates and can withstand both extreme heat and humidity for extended periods of time. They are able to do this thanks to their ability to sweat, which keeps them from overheating. Zebu do not require a large amount of food or water, making them ideal for small farmers who need to keep costs low. They can survive on some very poor quality land as well, which makes them useful for farmers who live in areas where vegetation is scarce and the soil is poorly drained.
Zebu were first domesticated by people living in the area that is now India about 5,000 years ago, but their use as farm animals spread throughout Asia over time. The zebu was introduced into Africa by Arab traders during the 8th century AD. In 1899, they were imported into