Certified Cheese Professional Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT one of the 7 most common cow breeds?

1. Ayrshire

2. Hereford

3. Jersey

4. Holstein

The correct answer is: Hereford

The choice highlighting Hereford as not being one of the seven most common cow breeds is accurate because Hereford is primarily a beef breed rather than a dairy breed. The focus of the question is on dairy breeds, which are primarily raised for milk production. Among the seven commonly recognized dairy breeds are Ayrshire, Jersey, and Holstein, all of which are well-known for their milk yield and dairy qualities. Ayrshire is a breed known for its efficiency and high-quality milk, while Jersey is prized for its rich, creamy milk with a high butterfat content. Holstein is perhaps the most recognized breed worldwide, famous for its large size and high milk production. Since Hereford is traditionally raised for beef rather than milk, it does not belong to the group of common dairy breeds. This distinction is crucial for understanding the characteristics and uses of different cow breeds in context.