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This episode of CAB Bite explores the evolution and purpose of the live animal specification within the Certified Angus Beef brand. Lindsay Graber Runft is joined by John Stika, president of Certified Angus Beef, and Mark McCully, CEO of the American Angus Association, to dig into the history, practicality and genetics behind what qualifies as Certified Angus Beef. Together, they address the common question: “Is CAB really Angus?” and shed light on the balance between practicality, accuracy and demand. 

Key Takeaways: 

• The live animal specification for Certified Angus Beef was created as a practical, scalable solution to identify Angus-influenced cattle, originally based on hide color. 
• Over time, the specification evolved from the “51% black” rule to a much more precise standard 
• Today, cattle qualifying for the brand average about 75% Angus genetics, while Certified Angus Beef Prime approaches 90% Angus composition. 
• While genetic verification and parentage tracking are discussed, their feasibility depends on cost, scalability and the potential impact on the entire industry — not just CAB’s brand. 

Key Quotes: 

• "[00:01:59] And so when you try to look for things that were practical, that were easy to implement, that were affordable, hide color became a logical place for the brand to begin to identify which cattle would be eligible for the brand and which ones wouldn't." — John Stika 
• "[00:05:40] And that now is the definition for the American Angus Association of what Angus means to be considered for branded beef programs." — Mark McCully 
• "[00:08:08] And what we know to be true is that the average carcass that goes into Certified Angus Beef is approaching 75% Angus genetics. And when you look at Certified Angus Beef Prime, that percentage is pushing up north of 90, almost straightbred Angus." — John Stika 
• "[00:13:04] And I think that's where the brand specifications, the carcass specifications are really what drive the value." – Mark McCully 

To learn more about raising premium cattle to supply the brand, visit CABcattle.com