How to read cattle mineral tags Learn more how to choose the correct minerals for your cattle24 January 2024 24 January 2024 12 minute read 12 minute read By: By: Penn State University North AmericaMinerals are essential for beef cattle in all stages of production. RequirementsDue to the critical functions of minerals in a number of body systems, there are specific mineral requirements for cattle. If animals graze, the soil mineral concentrations can impact their mineral requirements. Not only do soil mineral concentrations alter forage mineral concentrations but soils themselves are also consumed by grazing animals. SummaryThe best way to determine the mineral needs of a beef cattle operation is to determine the mineral concentrations in the feedstuffs or the pastures cattle consume.