Records, from as far back as the time of King Matthias (1458-1490), indicate that the already famous grey cattle were driven from Hungary to the markets of western Europe, almost without losses in the animals lives. It is also a fact that the treasury covered the war cost of driving out the Turks from Hungary (1680s) from 1/30 of the export levy on grey cattle.
This large, peaceful, but very strong and sturdy animal was in demand not for its low price, but for its high quality meat. This is still true today especially when one considers that the animals are free of BSE (due to the fact that they have never been given animal-based feed). The breed is also more resistant to other diseases than many other species. The animals are raised under natural conditions and are not given any hormonal treatment. Their meat is rich in iron, low in cholesterol and has a special aroma due to the aromatic and medicinal plants in their diet.
Due to a financial contribution in 2001 from the LIFE programme 50 grey cattle were introduced to Nagyköru. Also since 2002 grey cattle have been maintaining the grassland nearby Tiszakürt . The LIFE programme also supports with providing feed and facilities for the animals in winter.
