A Breed Rooted in Tradition, Built for Global Agriculture

From the alpine valleys of Switzerland to the plains of Latin America, Simmental cattle have become one of the most widespread and respected dual-purpose breeds in the world. With an estimated 40–50 million Simmental-type animals worldwide, their influence stretches far beyond milk and beef: they embody history, culture, and the promise of sustainable livestock systems.

Alizée Sauron, Project Manager International

A Breed Rooted in Tradition, Built for Global Agriculture

The Simmental breed originates from the Bernese Oberland (Simme is a river and "tal" means valley) in Switzerland, where its reputation for strength, adaptability, and dual-purpose use has been recognized for centuries. Already in the 15th century, European noble courts were sourcing Simmental cattle for their robustness, longevity, and milk yield. By the 20th century, an export boom carried Simmental genetics across Europe, Russia, America, and Asia.

Today, Simmental remains one of the world’s leading dual-purpose breeds. In Switzerland, it still plays a significant role in cheese and meat production. Simmental cows are milked as a true dual-purpose breed but are also widely used in suckler cow herds, valued for strong milk performance and fast-growing, well-muscled calves. Abroad, the focus has often shifted more strongly towards beef, though the core traits of resilience, fertility, and adaptability are recognised everywhere.

Strength in Dual Purpose

Unlike highly specialized dairy or beef breeds, Simmental offers both milk and meat of high quality:

• Milk: Up to 10,000 litres per lactation in lowland regions with TMR, with protein levels ideal for cheese production.
• Meat: Renowned for its fine marbling and tenderness, highly valued in European and international markets.

This dual-purpose identity is what makes Simmental attractive in uncertain markets: farmers can rely on both dairy and beef income streams, reducing economic risk.

Current Debates and Breeding Goals

International discussions highlight several key areas shaping the future of Simmental breeding:

• Milk and Muscle: While milk yields have risen, breeders emphasize not to lose sight of muscling and beef value. Maintaining balance is critical.
• Polled genetics: There is growing demand for naturally hornless (polled) cattle. The breeding program at Swissgenetics is integrating polled lines while striving to preserve pure Simmental identity.
• Adaptability: In mountainous Switzerland, smaller cows thrive; in lowlands, larger and heavier Simmentals excel. This versatility ensures the breed remains relevant across vastly different production environments.
• Sustainability & market positioning: With consumers seeking traceability and animal-friendly products, initiatives like the upcoming “Simmentaler Original” cheese label aim to strengthen the breed’s brand and economic value.

Cultural and Symbolic Value

Beyond production, Simmental cattle carry symbolic weight. They are the archetypal Swiss cow — immortalized in alpine landscapes, art, and even advertising. The Simmental breed is more than a production tool — it is a global heritage and a modern opportunity. Its versatility has carried it from Swiss alpine meadows to farms on every continent. The future will demand a careful balance between tradition and innovation. For international farmers, Simmental offers not only milk and beef — but resilience, adaptability, and a story that resonates from the Alps to the world.