Innovations and Technology Trends in Dairy Farming

Innovations in dairy farming are the focus of attention for farms as well as science, consulting and industry. If we take a closer look at the hoped-for innovations and technology trends in this area, it becomes clear that improving animal health is the top priority for the entire industry. Improvement of animal health is not only important from an ethical point of view, but also leads to a better performing herd and thus to better economic figures. Improving biosecurity and hygiene is rated as “important” by all sectors, but not as “very important”. Even though there have been no major outbreaks of epidemics in recent years – unlike in the pig and poultry sectors – the issue should certainly not be underestimated, because in addition to epizootics, it is also generally a matter of protecting the health of the herd.

The results of the survey show that the reduction of antibiotic consumption demanded by politics and society is also important for farmers.

Innovations in the area of animal welfare and husbandry systems are also considered important. However, high investments and conversion costs act as a brake here. These are incurred in order to switch to a higher husbandry level and thus achieve even greater animal welfare. It is difficult to judge whether such an investment is worthwhile, as the demand for products with the labelling of higher husbandry levels is currently not completely guaranteed and the long-term planning security for farmers is lacking.

DLG-Agrifuture Insights – a comprehensive view on agricultural development

DLG-Agrifuture Insights is the DLG knowledge brand and platform for international trend analyses in the agricultural sector. It examines the business environment in agriculture and agribusiness through a global panel of over 4,000 leading farmers. Every month, Agrifuture Insights publishes a "Chart of the Month" from its extensive range of development trends in international agricultural markets.