AFBI researchers secure key role in international dairy cow feed efficiency project

A research consortium including the University of Alberta, Canada, the University of Liege, Belgium and the Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute (AFBI), Northern Ireland has been successful in securing funding for a research project to investigate feed efficiency in dairy cattle.

The project is funded by Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency Ltd for a 3-year period and will be coordinated by Professor Graham Plastow’s team at the University of Alberta.

AgriSearch, through the milk producers’ levy are also providing funding for part of the project work to be undertaken in Northern Ireland.

The overall aim of the project is to examine opportunities to increase feed efficiency in dairy cows by identifying animals which produce more milk from a given level of feed intake.  Previous research has shown up to a 20% variation in milk output per unit of feed intake.  Given that feed costs represent up to 70% of the variable costs of milk production, improvements in feed efficiency offers real potential to reduce production costs.  The AFBI research team, led by Dr Tianhai Yan, will undertake measurements of feed intake and energy efficiency together with a comprehensive range of milk analyses.

In congratulating Dr Yan on securing this international research funding, Dr Sinclair Mayne, Director of AFBI’s Sustainable Agri-Food Sciences Division said, “This is a very exciting research project which has the potential to have both local and global impact for the dairy industry. Genetic selection for improved feed efficiency is now a realistic proposition and it is essential that AFBI is involved in this global research programme in order to ensure that this technology will be available to Northern Ireland dairy farmers. AgriSearch funding has been critical to securing our involvement in this programme.’’

Notes to editors: 

AFBI carries out high quality technology research and development, statutory, analytical, and diagnostic testing functions for DARD and other Government departments, public bodies and commercial companies.

 AFBI's Vision is “Scientific excellence in Northern Ireland …  serving the world”.

 All media enquiries to AFBI Press Office 

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