Meuse-Rhine-Issel
Meuse-Rhine-Issel cattle, often abbreviated MRIJ and called Maas-Rijn-IJssel in Dutch, are red-and-white dual-purpose cattle from the river regions of the Netherlands. The name refers to the Meuse, Rhine, and IJssel areas where local cattle were developed for both milk and beef. MRIJ cows are generally sturdier and more muscled than highly specialized dairy breeds, with good feet and legs, useful udders, and milk valued for solids. They are related to the broader North European red-and-white cattle tradition but are not simply red Holsteins.
On farms, MRIJ cattle suit grass-based dairying, mixed dairy-beef herds, and crossbreeding programs that want stronger calves, fertility, and durability without giving up dairy function. Milk yield varies by line and management, so selection should match the herd's goals rather than relying on color alone. Buyers looking for true MRIJ genetics should check registration or pedigree information, especially in countries where red-and-white dairy cattle from several backgrounds are traded under similar descriptions.
Colors: Belted, Black, Black and White, Blaze Faced, Blue Roan, Brindle, Brockle Faced, Brown, Brown and White, Dun, Gray, Grey, Highbelt, Highpark, Lineback, Mottled, Pied, Red, Red and White, Red Roan, Riggit, Roan, Silver, Solid Black, Solid Red, Solid White, Speckled, Spotted, White, White Faced, Yellow
