Beta-Adrenergic Agonists, Dietary Protein, and Rumen Bacterial Community Interactions in Beef Cattle: A Review

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The beef industry faces the challenge of increasing the supply of high-quality protein to an ever-growing global population. Improving nutrient use efficiency is important to enhancing the sustainability of the beef industry and its environmental footprint. Over the past few decades, advances in dietary innovations and feed supplements have helped to improve feed efficiency in cattle. However, focusing on the rumen microorganisms stands to rapidly advance ruminant nutritional physiology, as the microbes enable ruminant animals to utilize plant-derived feed sources by processing them through microbial-driven fermentation. To address common feed and management practices and their impact on the rumen microbial community, this review addresses the interactions among beta-adrenergic agonists, protein level and source, and the ruminal microbiome. Advancing our understanding of feed and management practices and their association with the rumen microbiome will help to sustainably improve beef cattle performance. ABSTRACT: Improving beef production efficiency, sustainability, and food security is crucial for meeting the growing global demand for beef while minimizing environmental impact, conserving resources, ensuring economic viability, and promoting animal welfare. Beta-adrenergic agonists and dietary protein have been critical factors in beef cattle production. Beta-agonists enhance growth, improve feed efficiency, and influence carcass composition, while dietary protein provides the necessary nutrients for muscle development and overall health. A balanced approach to their use and incorporation into cattle diets can lead to more efficient and sustainable beef production. However, microbiome technologies play an increasingly important role in beef cattle production, particularly by optimizing rumen fermentation, enhancing nutrient utilization, supporting gut health, and enhancing feed efficiency. Therefore, optimizing rumen fermentation, diet, and growth-promoting technologies has the potential to increase energy capture and improve performance. This review addresses the interactions among beta-adrenergic agonists, protein level and source, and the ruminal microbiome. By adopting innovative technologies, sustainable practices, and responsible management strategies, the beef industry can contribute to a more secure and sustainable food future. Continued research and development in this field can lead to innovative solutions that benefit both producers and the environment.