Abstract
Introduction. Artificial insemination in beef cattle breeding is one of the most effective methods for genetic improvement of livestock. Over the past 10 years in Kazakhstan, artificial insemination of beef breeds has been widely used to enhance the genetic potential of commercial herds. Materials and methods. This article presents a comparative analysis of productivity and slaughter performance between Hereford bulls obtained through natural mating and those produced by artificial insemination. Results and discussion. The results of scientific studies demonstrate the influence of genetic and reproductive factors on live weight, pre-slaughter weight, meat productivity, carcass yield, as well as morphological and genetic parameters. Particular attention is paid to evaluation and selection methods, as well as to the relationship between reproductive technologies and meat quality traits. The findings indicate that artificial insemination of Hereford cows and heifers of breeding age has a positive effect on the slaughter and meat performance of their offspring. Improvements in pre-slaughter weight, carcass yield, and overall meat productivity can be achieved through the use of artificial insemination combined with optimal sire selection and effective breeding programs. Conclusions. Genetic parameters confirm the possibility of rapid genetic progress in traits that are important for meat production.