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The
Saône-&-Loire department, with
its 350,000 hectares of pastureland, is
home to France's largest herd of
beef cattle (220,000 heads of cattle,
with 96% being of the Charolais breed).
Charolais cows feed, from March through November, on lush
prairies, whereas during wintertime their
diet consists of natural plant products
(hay, fodder, cereals).
Those animals bred locally for slaughter
are fed accordingly, with a complementary
proportion of cereals and grain oil meal
in order to reach optimal weight.
This very high-quality
meat is characterised by its tenderness,
finesse, maturity and savour. The succulence
of the Charolais meat is especially
sought and appreciated by all gourmets
far and wide.
Over 1,600 cattle farmers
throughout the Saône-&-Loire
department have signed the "Charolais
de Bourgogne" production quality
charter, which certifies that their herds
have been bred, raised and fully developed
all within the designated Charolais geographic
zone.
The "Bœuf de Charolles"
beef, which stems from a traditional
and taste-oriented approach toward production
within a highly-reputed region, is under
review to be awarded a distinct French
agricultural appellation. More than
200 breeders within the Saône-&-Loire
have already joined this movement for
recognition of their efforts and talent.
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