Selecting for singular reproductive traits in cattle can be difficult, however, selecting for marbling is not quite as hard.
Dan Loy, Director of the Iowa Beef Center, conducted a twenty year study on his herd of cattle. In this study, he had all his heard selected for marbling. According to Loy, people should not be skeptical about selecting for singular traits. He states that it is possible to select for high quality in a singular trait and have an efficient cow herd.
Certified Angus Beef wants to reassure ranchers that better or higher grade beef will not come at the cost of maternal qualities in a herd.