Researchers in the OSU Department of Animal and Food Sciences study livestock diets, diseases, pests, genetics and environments. AFS research studies found cotton byproducts to be an effective source of fiber, fat and protein for cattle in feedlots and compared the immune responses of cattle selected for different growth rates to see if cattle with certain traits have a higher immune system function.

OSU dairy cow research looked at how feed supplements and water additives increase milk production, and pregnant female pigs and their offspring were studied during different stages of pregnancy to determine what creates more robust offspring. AFS researchers also continuously study what causes the discoloration of meat and how to slow that process down to avoid food waste. This research has saved the meat industry $3 billion in losses.