Optaflexx (the chemical name is ractopamine) is a type of compound called a beta agonist, which increases the amount and rate of protein deposition in finishing beef cattle. Optaflexx increases carcass weight by 10 to 20 pounds in steers and slightly less in heifers. There is also a measurable increase in ribeye size, as beta agonists act primarily by increasing protein deposition in muscle. Available data suggest Optaflexx has no negative impact on carcass quality, although the carcasses may be slightly leaner.
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