Estimation of the water footprint in the production of meat from European cattle in Mexico ; Estimation of the water footprint in the production of beef from Euro-pean cattle in Mexico

Objective: The objective of this research is to determine the water footprint of beef from stable production of the Charolais breed, with an established diet, in the municipality of Ezequiel Montes, Querétaro. Design/methodology/approach: The participation of animal protein in human nutrition is important for the proper development of the organism's functions. The production and consumption of beef has been increasing in recent years, as well as the concern of consumers for the deterioration of the environment and water resources; agriculture and livestock represent 76% of the consumptive use of water in Mexico. In this context, it is important to know the water consumption during meat production and for this purpose the water footprint is estimated. The methodology proposed by Hoekstra was used. Results: The estimated water footprint for beef in this research is 2,972.4 liters per kg, including the blue and green water footprint. Limitations on study/implications: The calculation of the gray footprint is not included. It is an indicator that corresponds to the specific area. Findings/conclusions: There is a difference between the water footprint obtained in this study and those presented in the literature, this may be due to differences in diet and breed of the animal studied, among other reasons. ; Objective: To determine the water footprint of beef from Charolais cattle subjected to stable production and an established diet. Design/Methodology/Approach: The water footprint was estimated using the methodology proposed by Hoekstra, in which the water footprints of the ingredients of the feed consumed are added to the total volume of water that the animal drank during its life. Results: The estimated water footprint for beef in this research was 2,972.4 liters per kg, including the blue and green water footprint. Study Limitations/Implications: The calculation of the gray water footprint is not included, although it is an indicator of the specific zone. Findings/Conclusions: There is a difference between the ...