Innovative Breeding News

Highlights on innovative breeding in October 2023

How feed efficiency boosts sustainable dairy profits

Have you ever wondered how much you could save in feed costs if your dairy cows were more efficient? Continue reading to learn more.

In a time where food production receives more scrutiny than ever, finding profitable and sustainable alternatives like breeding for feed efficiency is key.

You can achieve this using the Saved Feed Index to select bulls to breed feed-efficient, climate-friendly cows with high milk production. The Cattle Feed Intake System (CFIT), an AI-based feed monitoring system, informs the index.

Data collected by CFIT on 11 commercial herds shows that the most feed-efficient cows contribute to a margin 3 to 4 times higher than low performers. This translates to an average annual profit gap of 18,400 €.

The data is clear: ignoring selection for feed efficiency means missing out on profits.

Get the full insights on our website: Boost Sustainable Profits with Feed-Efficient Cows (vikinggenetics.com)

ProCROSS Ranking gets a revision

The ProCROSS Ranking (PCR), a genetic index developed for ProCROSS cattle, has been revised to make genetic selection more effective. ProCROSS is a three-breed crossbreeding system combining VikingRed, VikingHolstein, and Coopex Montbéliarde to enhance herd health and profitability.

The revised PCR incorporates feed efficiency into the equation through VikingGenetics' Saved Feed Index and Coopex Montbéliarde's DigeR. This will improve feed-to-milk conversion, boosting profits and reducing emissions.

A higher emphasis on production and udder conformation is also part of the revision. This targeted focus aims to increase uniformity and better udder health across ProCROSS herds, contributing to higher milk production.

The PCR will continue to evolve as more data becomes available, resulting in more precise trait emphasis, lower culling rates, longer productive lifetimes, and more.

Discover the ProCROSS Ranking: ProCROSS Ranking Revised for Better Production & Efficiency (vikinggenetics.com)

VikingRed returns to Thailand

Have you ever heard the story of VikingRed and Thai-Denmark Milk? This remarkable partnership started in 1962, inspired by a shared interest in dairy between Danish King Frederik IX and Thai King Bhumibol. The first 39 Danish red dairy cows arrived in Thailand that same year.

This enduring bond between the two nations was renewed this month during a visit by the Danish Livestock and Food Processing Business Delegation. To celebrate this, VikingGenetics CEO Louise Helmer donated 19 VikingRed embryos and 20 doses of semen to revitalize Thailand's dairy industry and reintroduce red cows to the country.

"Red Cow Diplomacy", as the initiative is called, is part of our dedication to sustainable global food production and the health of dairy cows. It pays homage to the two country's shared history and supports the Thai-Danish Dairy Farm.

VikingRed genetics will enhance animal welfare and empower Thai farmers to meet the needs of their country's growing population.

Learn more about VikingRed: Red cattle genetics | Healthy and trouble-free red cows (vikinggenetics.com)