Innovative Breeding News

Highlights of innovative breeding in March 2023

Crossbreeding improves feed efficiency

A recent study by the University of Minnesota has shown that ProCROSS cows are more feed-efficient than purebred Holstein cows. The study compared the performance of ProCROSS (a 3-way crossbred of Montbéliarde, VikingRed and Holstein) and purebred Holstein cows, after being fed two alternative diets.

The study's findings demonstrate that feeding ProCROSS cows a higher fibre, lower starch diet does not lead to a loss of fat plus protein production. This was measured using various key parameters, including dry matter intake, fat plus protein production, body weight, and feed efficiency, among others.

The results indicate that dairy producers can reduce feed costs without compromising performance or welfare. With the increasing cost of feed and the need to reduce carbon footprint, this is good news for farmers, as they can improve herd efficiency and maintain productivity.

In conclusion, the ProCROSS system offers a solution for dairy farmers to improve feed efficiency and reduce costs and emissions, without compromising on performance. This means, through ProCROSS, dairy farmers can breed a healthy, robust, and efficient herd to adapt to the changing needs of the dairy industry.

Read more about the study:

German farmers visit Denmark for hands-on Jersey experience

Last week, a group of nearly 50 German farmers visited Denmark on a two-day trip courtesy of VikingGenetics Deutschland. The farmers visited six different 100% VikingJersey farms, aiming to learn more about Jersey cattle, what makes it the breed of the future, and best practices for breeding, feeding, and care.

In addition to the farm visits, the group also stopped by the VikingGenetics headquarters, where they received a fascinating demonstration of VikingJersey bulls and learned about the process of semen production. VikingJersey product manager, Peter Larson, also delivered an informative and engaging talk about what the farmers could achieve by switching breeds from Holstein to Jersey.

The trip was a resounding success, with the German farmers returning home inspired and equipped with new insights about the future of cattle breeding.

VikingGenetics would like to thank the farmers who welcomed us and our guests onto their farms and shared their knowledge and expertise.

Learn more about VikingJersey:?

?AgroNord 2023 – Great cows all around!

AgroNord 2023 was an exciting event for VikingGenetics cows, as they were featured at VikingDanmark’s stand on March 8th. The exhibition was a fantastic way for our farmer-owners to display the Nordic breeding goal of high-yielding, healthy, and long-living cows.

The stand was bustling with activity, with many visitors stopping by to see the impressive line-up of VH Snake, VH Rakeem, VH Broback, VH Idaho & VH Monty P daughters.

VikingGenetics cows also performed very well during the show portion of the event. Visitors had the chance to see many great cows, including a VH Snake daughter from Andreas Vesterg?rd who took 1st place in her category, and a VH Idaho daughter, among others.

Another great highlight was the oldest cow ever shown at an animal show in Denmark: 2262, a beautiful Q Laf daughter from Tastum Jersey, who is currently in her 15th lactation!

A huge thank you and congratulations to VikingDanmark and the owners of the cows exhibited at AgroNord 2023. We can’t wait for next year!