Final answer:
The beef industry comprises several stages including ranching, feedlots, and meatpacking. Challenges such as environmental sustainability have prompted the adoption of sustainability programs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The structure of the beef industry involves several key stages that include cattle ranching, feedlots, meatpacking, and distribution. Initially, cattle are grazed on open lands and then moved to feedlots where they are fed corn and silage. At market size, they are processed into various beef products.
The emergence of large meatpacking facilities, like those created by Philip Armour and Gustavus Swift, provided economies of scale, reducing shipping costs and altering supply chains. However, this industry has faced challenges related to sustainability, evidenced by the greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation associated with cattle ranching in Brazil.
Adaptations within the industry include sustainability programs aimed at reducing environmental impacts and improving economic viability for ranchers. Additionally, market concentration has been observed in the agriculture sector, limiting competition and leading to lower portions of consumer spending reaching farmers.
Hay farming is also connected to the beef industry, particularly supporting the dairy part of agricultural production, as cows are often fed hay.