25.05.2018

Simmental – A Swiss Suckler Cow or a Citizen of the World?

These cattle with their red to fawn spots and characteristic white heads come from the Bernese Oberland.

The Simmental breed originated in the Simmental in the Bernese Oberland. With a population of some 50 million animals, they have become one of the most widespread cattle breeds worldwide.

Already back in the 16th century, Simmental cattle were exported to neighbouring countries. However, the boom for the Swiss dual-purpose cow was primarily driven by its presence at the 1855 World Fair in Paris.

Apart from in milk-and-cheese Switzerland, the Simmental breed is prized virtually worldwide today due primarily to its good meat performance.