Animal genetics is a key driver for more sustainable food production. ![]() EFFAB, the European Forum of Farm Animal Breeders, is part of several platforms and key groups working to make progress together.īut what does responsible animal breeding mean? It means finding a sustainable compromise for people, the planet and farmed animals between traits related to the health and welfare of animals, their environmental impacts and the quality and quantity of food production.įor example, today, pigs and poultry need only half of the feed required 40 years ago. Genetic improvement in efficiency also leads to improved robustness and longevity of dairy cows, better feet and leg strength in both pigs and poultry, and enhanced gut health. ![]() In the context of climate change and biodiversity loss, animal breeding is a valuable tool for reducing the impacts of animal farming and helping farmers become more sustainable.Įuropean animal breeding is a cornerstone for improvement and is forging ahead with sustainable animal production with the collaboration of other sectors. Breeders also practice the preservation, improvement, and promotion of local breeds.įor this reason, animal breeding can play an important role in improving the genetics of animals, making them more resistant and more productive, which is essential to providing nutritious, safe and sustainable food for populations. Robustness, fertility, longevity, disease resistance, animal welfare, better use of feed resources, methane reduction and the reduction of the impact on the environment are all desirable qualities in the animal breeding programmes developed by animal breeders depending on the farming context. Animal breeding is the selective crossing of domestic animals chosen for their desirable or preferred traits. By improving the propensity of animals for certain traits and preserving genetic diversity, it is possible to enhance entire populations of animals, with tangible benefits for farmers, consumers, and the environment. ![]() Raising healthy and robust animals with improved animal welfare is a priority in modern livestock farming.
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