As RAAA advances its approach to parentage verification, these updates are designed to provide members with more comprehensive genomic information while continuing to protect the accuracy and integrity of the Red Angus database. For DNA orders postmarked after July 1, 2026, parent verification is now conducted through the higher-density GGP test, available at a reduced cost of $40 per sample.

Important: The Standalone DNA Parentage Test has been discontinued. Submitting a Standalone Parentage Test may delay processing and increase turnaround time.

The FAQs below address common questions about Advanced Parentage Verification Technology, current DNA testing options and what these changes mean for members moving forward.

Q: I run multiple sires in the same breeding pasture. In the past, I used standalone parentage testing so I could submit the correct sire information with each registration application. How do I register a calf when I don’t know the sire of the calf?

A: Register the calves using the appropriate multiple-sire group as the sire. Once the GGP test is completed and parentage has been determined, RAAA staff will update each calf’s pedigree to reflect the identified sire.

Q: Every year I have a few calves that lose their ear tags after they’ve been registered. I previously used standalone parentage testing to determine their identity so I could retag them correctly. Now that standalone parentage has been discontinued, how do I submit a test on a calf when I don’t know its ID or registration number?

A: We understand that unexpected situations happen on every ranch, and RAAA staff is committed to helping members work through them. In these cases, the best approach is to use a process of elimination to identify the registration numbers involved. List those registration numbers on the DNA order form along with the submitted sample ID. Once the GGP results are received, RAAA staff will determine the correct match and notify you of the registration number associated with the submitted sample ID.

Q: I am a commercial producer and only want to verify parentage. I do not intend to register these animals. What are my options?

A: RAAA can assist commercial Red Angus producers with ordering an Igenity Beef DNA test. While the Igenity Beef test is available through sources outside of RAAA, ordering through RAAA offers an important advantage: access to the parentage markers already on file for potential sires. In addition to parentage verification, the test provides breed composition and a comprehensive genetic assessment for maternal, performance, carcass and health traits, giving you valuable information to support replacement selection and marketing decisions.

Q: I’m attempting to register a calf and receiving an error message of DNA required (For example - Sire < 10 months old at breeding, Cow < 10 months old at breeding, or Calving interval too short) due to the dam being bred prior to the normal breeding age. How do I navigate this as a registration number is required prior to ordering the GGP test?

A: Special scenarios require special handling. In these cases, please reach out to the RAAA DNA department for special instructions.