The Dairy Mail April 2025_digital

Vol 32 • No 4 • APRIL 2025

R46,50 incl VAT • ISSN: 1561-4301

’N WÊRELD

SONDER KOEIE

TMR

CONFERENCE

40 DAYS TO GO!

IN THIS ISSUE: MILKING IN FRANCE | CHOLINE FOR TRANSITION |

| KALFGESONDHEID EN -WELSYN | WELFARE, HEALTH AND SUSTAINABILITY |

| ZOONOSIS PART 1 | ORGANIC SELENIUM AND IMMUNITY |

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SOOS ONS DIT SIEN • AS WE SEE IT

RENTMEESTERSKAP

EN WELSYN

Lize Marié du Toit,

streekbestuurder MPO Wes-Kaap

Dit is van kardinale belang dat ons

as bedryf nie net die ekonomiese

waarde van ons produksie najaag

nie, maar dat ons ook die impak

daarvan op die breër gemeenskap

en die omgewing in gedagte hou.

Twee waardes wat nie net die sukses van

ons bedryf waarborg nie, maar ook die

volhoubaarheid daarvan vir toekomstige

geslagte, is rentmeesterskap en welsyn.

Die primêre melkbedryf van Suid-Afrika het

die afgelope paar dekades enorme uitdagings

beleef, van klimaatverandering tot markvloei

(en melkvloei), asook die voortdurende

soeke na doeltreffende tegnologie en

volhoubare praktyke. Wat egter nie verander

het nie, is die algehele toewyding van die

melkprodusente om verantwoordelik te sorg

vir hulle diere, hulle grond, en die omgewing

en gemeenskappe in die geheel.

In hierdie uitgawe fokus ons op die

belangrikheid van omgewingsen

dierewelsynbestuur en hoe dit nie net

die welstand van die diere nie, maar ook

die ekonomiese volhoubaarheid van die

melkbedryf bevorder. Dit is van kardinale

belang dat ons as bedryf nie net die

ekonomiese waarde van ons produksie najaag

nie, maar dat ons ook die impak daarvan op

die breër gemeenskap en die omgewing in

gedagte hou.

Met die toewyding van die boere, die

tegnologie wat die bedryf innoverend hou,

en die samewerking van alle rolspelers in

die sektor, glo ons dat Suid-Afrika se primêre

melkbedryf steeds kan groei en floreer – alles

ter wille van ’n gesonder toekoms vir ons

mense, ons diere, en ons planeet.

Ons nooi jou uit om deur hierdie uitgawe

te blaai en te leer hoe die beginsels van

rentmeesterskap en welsyn nie net ’n

volhoubare bedryf waarborg nie, maar ook

die kern vorm van wat dit beteken om ’n

verantwoordelike boer te wees.

Lize Marié du Toit

APRIL 2025 • THE DAIRY MAIL 1

2 THE DAIRY MAIL • APRIL 2025

REDAKTEURSBRIEF • EDITOR’S NOTE

WE LOVE

OUR COWS!

by Hanlie du Plessis, editor of The Dairy Mail

I

believe that dairy farmers are drawn to

their work because of a genuine love for

their animals. They also understand that

without proper care of their cows, they would

not have a livelihood or be able to provide

nutritious dairy products for millions of

people worldwide.

The style of care comes in many forms,

and the level of detail may surprise many. I

remember my astonishment during a visit to

a dairy farmer some years ago, when I first saw

the large rotating brushes that activate as a

cow approaches, offering the ultimate in backscratch

bliss. I’ve seen huge fans and misting

systems keeping the ladies cool, and only

recently read about quilted, insulated calf

jackets used to keep the young ones warm.

I am proud to say that stewardship and

animal welfare are at the heart of most

dairies in South Africa. In this edition of The

Dairy Mail, we focus on these values and

acknowledge the vital role of animal nutrition

and health in the dairy farmer’s ongoing

quest to balance the social, economic, and

environmental pillars of sustainability.

In line with our focus, I had the privilege

of attending the very first screening of

A world without cows in South Africa.

The documentary aims to broaden the

conversation about cows and encourages

viewers to think more deeply about how cattle

impact our world. Read the article “Stel jou

voor – ’n wêreld sonder koeie” on page 9.

Research shows that investing in rumenprotected

choline helps transition cows

start stronger, recover faster, and achieve

better long-term productivity. Caitlyn de Vos,

ruminant development manager at Vitam

International, explains on page 34 how

choline can be viewed as an investment in

long-term profit.

On page 61, Dr Japie van der Westhuizen

of SA Stud Book shares his insights on

benchmarking. He explains how this practice

can be extremely valuable in gathering more

information about on-farm profit drivers and

applying benchmarking in a practical way.

The first of our new three-part series on

zoonosis also starts in this edition and can be

read on page 66.

Where I am, days are already shorter and

temperatures much lower – winter is around

the corner. The May edition of The Dairy Mail

will be filled with articles and information to

help you prepare for the winter season.

But in the meantime, enjoy this read.

Hanlie du Plessis


CONTENTS INHOUDSOPGAWE

44

9

1 Soos ons dit sien

3 Editor’s note

7 Meet the team | Suiwelkalender

BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

9 Stel jou voor ~ ’n wêreld sonder koeie

14 NAMPO 2025 set to unite the world of

farming on South African soil

15 Milking in France

18 TMR Conference ~ the conference

you can’t afford to miss

20 The 2025 World Dairy Expo

Recognition Awards

24 Kortliks | Briefly

25 Dairy economic indicators

32 Dairy digits

PRODUKSIE • PRODUCTION

34 Choline for transition cows

39 The influence of floors and

walkway surfaces on longevity

42 FORGE – die baanbreker meerjarige

basterraaigras

44 Kalfgesondheid en welsyn

49 The ideal calf starter feed

RENTMEESTERSKAP • STEWARDSHIP

53 Linking animal welfare, health

and sustainability

56 SenseHub – the role of automated

monitoring in heifer selection

58 Boosting dairy cattle immunity naturally

with organic selenium

BESTUUR • MANAGEMENT

61 Benchmarking to increase profitability

66 A closer look at zoonosis: Part 1

70 Labour column

Requesting proof of illness

VOORBLAD / COVER

Jonathan Barry is ʼn melkboer wat met sy hart

boer. Dit is vir hom belangrik om bewustelik in

pas met die natuur te boer maar terselftertyd

van die nuutse tegnologie gebruik te maak om

sy boerdery te laat werk. Hy melk 400 Jerseykoeie

in die Swellendam-distrik op die plaas

Lismore. Illa Hugo het vir ons dié maand se

voorbladfoto van Jonathan in die veld by sy

beeste geneem en ingestuur.


INHOUD • CONTENTS

66

Executive editor

Editor

Copy editors

Lead designer

Fanie Ferreira

Hanlie du Plessis

Magdaleen du Toit

Sue Cato

Priscilla Botha

Editorial contributions

Hanlie du Plessis • Tel: 083 293 8007

Email: hanliedup61@gmail.com

Advertising & rates

Ilse Liveris • Tel: 072 708 4401

Email: Ilseliv@outlook.com

Charlene Bam • Tel: 061 500 7991

Email: charlene@maxmediagroup.co.za

72 Financial column

Farming like a woke poet

NAVORSING EN OPLEIDING •

RESEARCH AND TRAINING

75 Update on FMD

77 Research column

Waste milk as a feed for calves

Accounts & subscriptions

Charlene Bam • Tel: 061 500 7991

Email: charlene@maxmediagroup.co.za

Printers

Western Printers, Centurion • +27 (0)12 941 9126

Contributors

Jade Smith

jade@mpo.co.za

Bertus van Heerden bertus@mpo.co.za

Caitlyn de Vos

caitlyn@vitam.co.za

VERWERKING • PROCESSING

79 SPAR private label wins at the

2025 SA Dairy Championships

MOO-VING WHEELS

80 It’s not a bakkie, it's a Hilux

Katinka Neethling

Jannika Pretorius

Dr Japie van der

Westhuizen

Hannes Latsky

Andries Wiese

Dr Heinz Meissner

Dr Anne Koontz

katinka.neethling@rclfoods.com

jannika.pretorius@alltech.com

japie@studbook.co.za

ansofiet.tiedt@gmail.com

andriesw@hollard.co.za

heinz@milksa.co.za

akoontz@alltech.com

Expressions of opinion, claims, and statements of supposed facts

do not necessarily reflect the views of The Dairy Mail, editor, or

publisher. While every effort is made to report accurately, The

Dairy Mail, the publisher, or the editor do not accept

any liability regarding any statement, advertisement,

fact, or recommendation made in this magazine.

ISSN: 1561-4301

An initiative of the MPO,

published monthly | PO Box 1284,

Pretoria 0001, South Africa

www.dairymail.co.za

Milk Producers’ Organisation,

referred to as MPO

South African Milk Processors’

Organisation, referred to as SAMPRO

Milk South Africa,

referred to as Milk SA


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For further information visit: www.bruker.com/dairy-analyzer

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Email: info.za@bruker.com


Innovation with Integrity

MEET THE TEAM

THAT CARES:

SWITCHBOARD: 012 843 5600

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Fanie Ferreira fanie@mpo.co.za 083 453 9339

AGRICULTURAL ECONOMIC SERVICES

Bertus van Heerden bertus@mpo.co.za 083 300 3667

JUNIOR ECONOMIST

Jade Smith jade@mpo.co.za 076 712 7395

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Wessel Steyn wessel@mpo.co.za 082 896 8116

MEMBER SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

Yolanda Strydom yolanda.s@mpo.co.za 072 371 1893

Anneke Kubannek anneke@mpo.co.za 071 875 1488

REGIONS

MPO WESTERN CAPE

Lize Marié du Toit lizem@mpo.co.za 076 774 1284

MPO NORTH

Mnandi Kruger north@mpo.co.za 073 116 8544

MPO KWAZULU-NATAL

Kevin Davies kzn@mpo.co.za 060 945 1735

MPO EASTERN CAPE

Anri Wolmarans ec@mpo.co.za 064 934 3951

TRAINING AND TRANSFORMATION SERVICES

Ronald Rapholo ronald@mpo.co.za 082 734 4433

SOME EVENTS TO

LOOK FORWARD TO

13 – 16 MAY 2025

NAMPO

HARVEST DAY

NAMPO PARK,

Bothaville

25 APRIL – 3 MEI 2025

23 – 24 AUGUST 2025

KZN DAIRYFEST

Nottingham Road,

KZN Midlands

BLOEMSKOU

Bloemfontein

skouterrein

8 – 10 JUNE 2025

MPO TMR

CONFERENCE

Radisson Hotel,

Kempton Park

Weens herhaaldelike kragonderbrekings ondervind

ons probleme met ons skakelbord. Vir die toekoms

word aanbeveel dat u ons span direk op hulle

selfoonnommers kontak. Ons wil graag met u gesels.

10-13 SEPTEMBER 2025

Due to repeated power outages, we are experiencing

problems with our switchboard. In future, we recommend

that you contact our team directly on their mobile numbers.

We would like to talk to you.

Dairy Mail - IntelliBond Banner Ads (June 2023) print.pdf 1 2023/06/19 07:51

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BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

~ STEL JOU VOOR ~

’N WÊRELD

SONDER KOEIE

deur Hanlie du Plessis

Negatiewe persepsies wat ver

verwyderd is van enige grondige

wetenskaplike gevolgtrekkings,

dryf die narratief dat koeie en hul

gasuitlating sleg is vir die planeet

en die grootste sondebokke is

wanneer dit by klimaatsverandering

en aardsverwarming kom.

’n Pro-vegetariese advertensie

wat ’n paar jaar gelede tydens ’n

Super Bowl wedstryd op die groot

skerm vertoon is, het dr Mark Lyons,

president en uitvoerende hoof

van Alltech, gekonfronteer met die

vraag “Sal die wêreld ’n beter plek

wees sonder koeie?”


Dr Lyons het deur die Alltech filiaal

Working Together for a Planet

of Plenty® twee baie bekende

rolprentmakers, Brandon Whitworth en

Michelle Michael, getaak om die antwoord

te soek. Die twee het opdrag gekry om

die wêreld te deurreis om meer te wete te

kom oor die kulturele en ekonomiese rol

wat koeie in ons samelewing speel, wat

koeie se bydrae is tot voedselsekuriteit en

wat hul impak op die planeet en klimaat is.

En hieruit het die dokumentêre rolprent

World Without Cows ontstaan.

Ek was bevoorreg om die eerste Suid-

Afrikaanse vertoning van dié rolprent by

te woon en die avontuur-reis op die skerm

na meer as 40 bestemmings regoor die

wêreld mee te maak. Teatergangers reis

van die Amerikaanse hartland na streke in

Kenia waar groot troppe beeste loop, na die

heilige koeie in Indië en massiewe voerkrale

in Brasilië en nog baie meer – om die

komplekse en dikwels verrassende impak wat

koeie op ons wêreld het, te ondersoek. Die

dokumentêr sit uiteenlopende perspektiewe

van wetenskaplikes, akademici, boere groot

en klein, en ander kundiges vanoor die hele

wêreld op die tafel.

Die rolprent laat ’n mens besef dat dit nie

só eenvoudig is om die vraag of die wêreld

’n beter plek sonder koeie sal wees, te

beantwoord nie. As dit by koeie kom, is dit nie

swart of wit nie. World Without Cows werp

’n wetenskaplike blik op die werklike impak

van koeie op ons wêreld – maar ondersoek

ook die potensiële gevolge indien hulle

verwyder sou word.

World Without Cows laat ’n mens nadink

oor die alternatief. As koeie dan so sleg is

vir die planeet en bydra tot aardverwarming

deur die metaangas wat hulle vrystel, hoekom

nie net van hulle ontslae raak en eerder op

die verbouing van gewasse fokus nie? Sou

alle mense veganiste word, het ons ooit

genoeg vrugbare grond op die planeet om die

gewasse te verbou wat nodig is om die dierlike

proteïene te vervang en die wêreldbevolking

te voed? Kan ons regtig bekostig om koeie

uit die voedselketting te verwyder as daar

800 miljoen mense op aarde is wat van koeie

afhanklik is vir hul voortbestaan? Om nie eers

te praat van die miljarde mense wat daagliks

vleis en melk gebruik om in hul basiese

voedingsbehoeftes te voorsien nie.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Navorsing het bewys dat die meeste

van die wêreld se landbougrond nie

geskik is vir die verbouing van gewasse

nie. Dit is ’n algemene wanpersepsie dat alle

landbougrond gebruik kan word om kos vir

menslike gebruik te produseer. Die waarheid

is dat slegs een derde van die aarde se

landbougrond bewerkbaar en geskik vir die

verbouing van gewasse is. Die oorblywende

twee derdes is marginale grond – grond wat

nie gebruik kan word om voedsel vir mense

te verbou nie omdat dit onvrugbaar is, of

omdat daar beperkte watertoegang is, of die

terrein te steil en/of rotsagtig is, en soms laat

die klimaat en weerstoestande dit eenvoudig

nie toe nie.

Van nader bekyk, lyk die prentjie só:

» Die landoppervlak van die

aarde is 29%.

» Slegs 38% van die grond word vir

landbou gebruik, oftewel ongeveer

124 miljoen hektaar.

» Van hierdie 124 miljoen hektaar is

33% bewerkbare grond waarop

gewasse verbou kan word.

» Die ander 66% is marginale grond,

ook bekend as weiveld en grasveld.

LANDOPPERVLAK

29%

LANDBOU

38%

BEWERKBARE GROND

33%

MARGINALE GROND

66%

Alhoewel ’n mens nie gewasse op marginale

grond kan verbou nie, kan diere soos beeste

daarop wei. Sonder beeste sou ons die

vermoë verloor om hierdie groot stukke grond

vir voedselproduksie te benut, wat ’n groot

gaping in die wêreldwye voedselstelsel sou

veroorsaak. Die beeste wat op marginale

grond wei, verander die plantweefsel wat ons

nie kan eet nie – soos gras en hooi – in die

kos wat ons liggame nodig het: voedsame

vleis en melk.

Selfs al sou gewasse op omgeskakelde

weivelde kon groei, het navorsing bewys dat

die oes-opbrengste waarskynlik te laag en te

onvoorspelbaar sal wees om die negatiewe

impak wat die omskakeling van daardie grond

op die omgewing sal hê, te regverdig.


Rothamsted Research, een

van die wêreld se oudste

landbounavorsingsinstellings, het in die

sogenaamde “Meat vs. Wheat” -eksperiment

probeer om ’n weiveld bestaande uit

marginale grond in bewerkbare grond te

omskep om koring daarop te verbou. Die

studie het op die suidweste van Engeland

gefokus en het getoon dat die waarskynlikheid

om winterkoring suksesvol te verbou op lande

wat voorheen gebruik is om vee op groot te

maak, so laag as 28% was.

Rothamsted het ook bevind dat die

omskakeling van hierdie grasvelde

gestoorde koolstof uit die grond in die

atmosfeer vrystel, wat ’n negatiewe impak

op klimaatsverandering het. Terwyl gewasse

dalk in ideale toestande op omgeskakelde

weivelde sou kon groei, maak die kombinasie

van onvoorspelbare weer, swak grond en die

potensiële omgewingsimpak wat dit kan hê

grootskaalse omskakeling onprakties.

“As ons marginale grond in bewerkbare

grond omskep, kan ons voedsel uit daardie

grond genereer. Maar ongelukkig is die

gevolge in terme van erosie op die terrein

en sedimentasie en sedimentverwante

probleme redelik beduidend,” sê

Adrian Collins, wetenskaplike direkteur by

Rothamsted Research. “Die omgewingsimpak

en maatskaplike koste word dus baie hoër

as gevolg van daardie omskakeling, en die

opbrengste is swak.”

Daar is nog ’n voordeel daaraan

verbonde om koeie op marginale grond

aan te hou: As herkouers met ’n komplekse

spysverteringstelsel wat vier mae insluit,

kan koeie gras en plantmateriaal eet wat

mense nie kan eet nie, en dit omskep in

hoogs voedsame kosse vir menslike gebruik.

Hierdie proses staan as ‘upcycling’ bekend.

Deur middel van ‘upcycling’ kan grond

wat andersins onbruikbaar sou wees vir

voedselproduksie, bydra tot die voeding

van die wêreld.

Dr. Sara Place, medeprofessor en spesialis

op die gebied van voerkraalstelsels aan die

Colorado State University is een van die

kundiges wat in World Without Cows verskyn.

Sy sê dat dit juis hierdie vermoë van koeie om

te kan hergebruik is wat een van die redes

was waarom die mens hulle in die eerste

plek mak gemaak het. “Hierdie diere neem

voer wat ’n laegehalte-proteïen is en ’n laer

persentasie proteïen bevat, en hulle maak

’n proteïenryke produk van hoë gehalte vir

menslike gebruik daarvan, of dit nou vleis of

melk is,” het Place gesê.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Alhoewel gewasse alleen genoegsame

kalorieë kan verskaf om ’n

wêreldbevolking te voed, kan dit

nie maklik al die volledige voedingstowwe

vervang wat ’n gebalanseerde dieet bied

wat dierlike voedsel insluit nie. Vleis en

suiwel verskaf gekonsentreerde bronne van

proteïene, yster, vitamien B12 en essensiële

vetsure. Om hierdie voedingstowwe van plante

alleen te verkry, is noukeurige beplanning

en aanvulling noodsaaklik. Aanvullende

voedingsopsies is moeilik of selfs onmoontlik

om te bekom vir mense wat om ekonomiese

of geografiese redes beperkte toegang tot

voedselbronne het.

“Om onderontwikkelde lande te bemagtig

moet ons vir hulle toegang tot dierlike voedsel

gee,” verduidelik dr. Stephan van Vliet,

navorser oor menslike voeding aan die

Utah State University, met wie daar ook ’n

onderhoud gevoer word in World Without

Cows. “Kan ons genoeg proteïene produseer

om die wêreld sonder beeste te voed? Ons kan

beslis. Maar sommige voedingstowwe word

slegs in dierlike voedsel aangetref, sommige

word slegs in plantaardige voedsel aangetref.

Om die beste van die twee te kombineer, gee

ons die beste van beide wêrelde.”

Dit is duidelik dat vir ons om volhoubaar

te leef, ons veel meer moet doen as om

net die huidige stand van sake onbepaald

te handhaaf. Ware volhoubaarheid spruit

uit voortdurende ekonomiese, omgewingsen

sosiale vooruitgang. Landbou is uniek

geposisioneer om al drie hierdie kritieke pilare

van volhoubaarheid te kan ondersteun en help

bou, naamlik die verskaffing van voedsel vir die

mens, die herlewing van plaaslike ekonomieë

en die bewaring en aanvulling van die planeet

se natuurlike hulpbronne.

Vir my was World Without Cows soveel

meer as net ’n dokumentêr. Ek sien dit as ’n

katalisator vir hierdie kritieke gesprekke oor

die toekoms van voedsel en oor die toekoms

van ons planeet. Ons het hierdie gesprek

nou nodig. Ons leef in ’n tyd van fopnuus en

vals inligting, en wanneer feite bevraagteken

word, volg hierdie dokumentêre rolprent

die wetenskap. Dit bewys weereens dat dié

gesprek vir ons almal van kritieke belang is.

Hopelik sal hierdie uitsonderlike

dokumentêre rolprent eersdaags beskikbaar

gestel word vir die breër publiek om te sien,

maar indien jy intussen meer wil weet, besoek

www.worldwithoutcows.com


NAMPO 2025

set to unite the world of

farming on South African soil

As agriculture faces mounting global

challenges and increasingly interlinked

food systems, the spotlight in 2025

turns to how local producers can harness

global knowledge, networks, and innovations

to strengthen South African agriculture.

This year’s NAMPO Harvest Day, the 57th

presentation of the flagship event from 13 to

16 May 2025, embraces the theme, Global

Agriculture, Locally!

Global Agriculture, Locally is not just a

theme – it’s a timely lens for South Africa’s

grain producers to view their role in a

fast-changing agricultural economy. The

exchange of ideas, technology, and practices

across borders presents unprecedented

opportunities for local farmers to increase

their resilience, competitiveness, and

sustainability. From climate-smart practices to

precision agriculture, South African producers

are part of a global network of knowledge –

but with deep roots in local soil.

With food security, input costs, and

production efficiency continuing to dominate

agricultural conversations, NAMPO 2025 will

provide producers the tools, technologies,

and relationships they need to navigate this

complex landscape. Whether it’s cuttingedge

machinery, climate-adaptive seed

varieties, agri-finance services, or digital

solutions, NAMPO remains the platform

where local meets global in real time.

“South African producers understand

that they are not farming in isolation. What

happens globally – whether it’s innovation,

trade flows or climate patterns – affects what

happens locally. NAMPO gives producers

access to global agriculture in one location,

with solutions they can use today. It remains

the ultimate one-stop event for any serious

player in the agricultural industry,” says

Dr Dirk Strydom, managing director of

NAMPO (Pty) Ltd.

As Grain SA prepares to welcome

thousands of producers, exhibitors, and

international visitors to NAMPO Park in

Bothaville, the focus is clear: bridging global

excellence with local execution. For South

African agriculture to thrive in this era,

it must be globally informed – but firmly

rooted at home.

Get your tickets online!

Tickets for NAMPO 2025 will be available

from OpenTickets www.opentickets.com

starting in April 2025, with discounted

entry fees for those purchasing online.

Gates open daily at 07:00 and close

at 17:00. Directions, parking info, and

private airstrip details are available

on the NAMPO website and via

the NAMPO app.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

MILKING IN FRANCE

ROSY FUTURE

for the FRENCH

DAIRY INDUSTRY

In France, the dairy sector struggles to retain and attract

farmers and workers, with the number of farms decreasing

by 40% over the past 12 years. In addition to labour

shortages, dairy farmers face three recurrent challenges:

limited social recognition, an intense workload, and

low income. However, demand for local and shortdistribution-chain

dairy products is growing.


Be it small, an increase in milk

collections, favourable trends in dairy

consumption, and more confidence

among producers themselves, the French

economic institute for the dairy industry,

CNIEL (Centre National Interprofessionnel

de l'Économie Laitière, which translates to

the National Interprofessional Centre for the

Dairy Economy) sees several encouraging

developments for the future of the sector.

In 2024, France produced just over

23 billion litres of milk, an increase of 1,3%

compared to the previous year. After a

continuous decline between 2020 and 2023,

this was the first annual increase in a long

time – a rebound directly reflected in the

production of dairy products.

France produced a little under 1,77 million

tonnes of cheese from cow’s milk last year,

an increase of 1,7%, along with 488 000 t of

dried milk powder and 353 500 t of butter.

The production of lactose-serum powder

was also 4,9% higher than the previous year,

at 432 000 t.

The small rebound in production benefits

both the national and export markets. In 2024,

the export of French dairy products increased

by 2,5% to a value of €3,2 billion (nearly

R69 billion).

Dairy markets are ‘globally dynamic’ and

driven mainly by the export basins on the

south side of the globe. Dairy production in

the United States is currently under severe

pressure because of avian influenza, and in

France, a slight decrease in production in

2025 was due to the effects of the ongoing

epidemics of bluetongue and epizootic

haemorrhagic disease (EHD), an infectious,

non-contagious notifiable viral disease.

However, the results of the latest ‘social

barometer’ survey CNIEL carried out among

850 French dairy farmers give reason for

optimism. Despite all the problems they

encounter in the field, with too much rain in

many regions as well as the pressure of all the

animal diseases, 55,5% describe the situation

as very well, which is just slightly lower than

the 56,9% of the year before.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Over the last five years, the mood among

farmers has improved on aspects like their

view of the future and their attachment to

the job. Farmers are more worried about the

strenuousness of their work, as well as the

extremely high labour costs in the country.

Nevertheless, 59% think that their dairy

farm offers positive prospects for the future,

a big improvement compared to the 41% who

thought so five years ago. Moreover, thanks to

the continuous discussions in the press and

politics about the plight of French farmers,

both the general public and decision-makers

are much more aware of their work and efforts

to feed the nation.

CNIEL also noticed an encouraging trend

in the French consumer market. Last year,

consumption of dairy products in France

increased by 0,8% in volume. Despite ongoing

inflation and the crisis in the cost of living

over the last few years, French consumers

have not lost their appetite for dairy. French

dairy consumers buy less of the cheaper

home brands from supermarkets, a trend

that emerged strongly after the COVID 19

pandemic. They are willing to pay more for the

bigger and more well-known dairy brands.

“It’s up to us, together with the whole dairy

industry, to build on these encouraging signs,”

CNIEL president Pascal le Brun said. “First

job: attract more young farmers to the sector

so that production can keep up with demand,

both nationally and internationally. Here, the

dairy sector, and the whole agricultural sector

in France, can profit from a recently approved

new national law on farming, which offers,

among many other things, extensive support

for new entrants to the farming industry.”

France has put forward the draft law to

protect the future of agriculture and farming

with a view to ensuring national food security.

The new regulation covers three main

areas: simplifying the system to encourage

environmental practices and penalties

for violations; fostering education across

agriculture; and investing in human resources.

It seems like the dairy industry in

France is surely set to prosper.


the

CONFERENCE

YOU CAN’T

AFFORD TO MISS

by Hanlie du Plessis

The very first Total Mixed Ration (TMR) Conference,

hosted by the Milk Producers’ Organisation (MPO),

is around the corner. If you have not booked yet, do

not miss the opportunity to expand your knowledge,

share in others’ experience, and take home novel

ideas to improve production and profit.

This important event will take place from

8–10 June 2025 at the Radisson Hotel

and Convention Centre, near Africa’s

busiest airport, OR Tambo in Gauteng. It will

bring together experts and stakeholders from

the dairy, red meat, and livestock industries.

The conference will kick off with a sociable

meet and greet on Sunday evening, 8 June,

with the actual two-day programme starting

in earnest on Monday 9 and Tuesday 10 June.

The programme was specifically developed

to benefit ruminant farmers using TMR

feeding systems.

An impressive line-up of highly regarded

industry experts was specifically chosen to

share their knowledge and insights with the

TMR farmers in attendance.

The presentations and panel discussions

will focus on the latest technology, problem

solving and finding solutions regarding key

topics such as on-farm biosecurity, rumen

health, feed management, nutrition and

performance optimisation.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

The first session on day one (Monday

9 June) will start with a biosecurity

workshop, chaired by Dr Frikkie Maré,

chief executive officer of the Red Meat

Producers’ Organisation. Recognising and

understanding all aspects of potential

biosecurity breaches is essential to managing

a successful programme, and this session

will aim to answer the question: how will the

livestock industry survive amid these dire

biosecurity issues?

Dr Shaun Morris and Gerhard Schutte will

look at the impact of foot-and-mouth disease

(FMD) and lessons learned from the recent

outbreaks. The session will close with a panel

discussion lead by Dr Danie Odendaal.

Panel members will include Dr Shaun Morris,

a veterinarian specialising in the feedlot

industry; Joubert Fourie, a milk producer,

processor, and co-owner of Limpopo Dairies;

Bull van Rensburg, a milk producer whose

herd was severely impacted by the FMD

outbreak in the Eastern Cape last year; and

Dr Dirk Verwoerd of Karan Beef & Abattoir.

The discussion will focus on a proposed onfarm

biosecurity protocol.

The sessions to follow on day one include

session 2 on farm management, chaired by

Fanie Ferreira, chief executive officer of the

Milk Producers’ Organisation, and session 3,

chaired by Timothy Magayisa of DSM,

which will explore the correlation between

rumen and animal health. The final session

of the day will take an in-depth look at feed

management, chaired by Kenneth Botha

of RumiTrition.

Day two will focus on nutrition and its role in

improving cow performance and health, with

a highlight presentation by Dr Sion Richards.

He will explain how precision nutrition can

help achieve the next 2 kg of milk in highperformance

dairy herds by putting science

into practice.

Dr Richards hails from a farm in North

Wales and holds a degree in animal science

and a PhD in nutritional biochemistry from

the University of Nottingham. He began his

career at Provimi as a commercial ruminant

nutritionist, later becoming research and

technical manager. He then held technical

and senior nutritionist roles in the United

Kingdom feed industry, followed by positions

at DSM Nutritional Products as senior

ruminant specialist and ruminant markets

manager for Europe, the Middle East and

Africa (EMEA). He later joined Adisseo as

ruminant technical manager for Europe. He

is currently the ruminant technical services

manager for EMEA at Balchem. Indeed an

expert in his field.

This exceptional programme will equip

delegates with valuable insights and

expertise, essential for developing a

financially sound strategic vision for their

farming enterprises.

REGISTER NOW

Register today on the MPO website at

https://mpo.co.za/tmr-conferenceregistration/

or contact Lize Marié du Toit

at 076 774 1284 or via email at

lizem@mpo.co.za.


WORLD DAIRY EXPO

RECOGNITION AWARDS

by Natalie Kinsley

World Dairy Expo has announced the recipients of the

2025 Expo Recognition Awards. Nominated and selected

by their peers, these individuals have made remarkable

contributions to the dairy industry and their communities.

Dairy Producer of the Year

The coveted Dairy Producer of the Year

award went to McCarty Family Farms.

As fourth-generation dairy farmers,

McCarty Family Farms is recognised as the

world’s largest registered Holstein herd,

milking 15 000 cows across four sites in

Kansas, United States, with an additional

4 000-cow herd in Ohio.

The family produces high-quality milk

while prioritising animal welfare, practising

regenerative farming, and implementing

impactful business practices for their team

and community. To support farm growth,

their dairy processing plant was recently

updated to include ultrafiltration and reverse

osmosis technologies. McCarty Family Farms

produces milk verified by the non-genetically

modified organism project for Danone

North America.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Industry Person of the Year

Jim Mulhern, former president and chief

executive officer of the National Milk

Producers’ Federation (https://www.nmpf.

org/), has worked tirelessly on behalf of dairy

farm families in the United States to bring

about positive change during every step

of his career, all while founded in servant

leadership principles.

Mulhern delivered numerous positive

results for diligent dairy farmers by working

behind the scenes to explain many of dairy’s

dynamic and deep issues to elected leaders

and policymakers. His work has made lasting

impacts on dairy and agricultural policy, and

his colleagues routinely say his kindness, hard

work, and collaborative nature are unmatched

in policy circles. These are among the many

reasons Jim Mulhern has been named World

Dairy Expo’s 2025 Industry Person of the Year.

International Person of the Year

Through determination and innovation,

Juan F Moreno rose from humble

beginnings on a Colombian cattle farm to

revolutionising the global livestock industry.

As the founder and chief executive officer of

Sexing Technologies, Moreno spearheaded

advancements that have fundamentally

altered the landscape of animal breeding,

turning what was once deemed impossible

into everyday practice for farmers worldwide.

His contributions, such as pioneering

gender-sorted semen technology and

introducing EcoFeed, reshaped dairy and

beef production economics and addressed

critical global food security and sustainability

challenges. His career spans decades,

and his innovations continue to push the

boundaries of what is possible in reproductive

biotechnology.

2025 WORLD

DAIRY EXPO

World Dairy Expo will take place from

30 September to 3 October 2025 in

Madison, Wisconsin. Dairy producers

will experience the dairy-focused trade

show, a dairy cattle show, attend seminars,

meetings and presentations highlighting

the latest and greatest in the industry, and

connect with other producers. Honourees

will be celebrated during the Recognition

Awards Banquet at World Dairy Expo on

Wednesday, 1 October 2025.




The Milk Producers’ Organisation

(MPO) is pleased to welcome Kevin

Davies and Mnandi Kruger, as part of

the MPO team. Their recent appointment

as regional managers in KZN and the

Northern region respectively, is proof of the

organisation’s commitment to support South

African dairy farmers through its dedicated

regional leadership.

Kevin Davies brings a wealth of experience

in agricultural management and a deep

understanding of the challenges dairy

producers have to face. He grew up on a dairy

farm in the Mooi River district of KwaZulu-

Natal where he developed a passion for

the dairy industry and livestock from a very

young age. Kevin matriculated from Hilton

College in 2010 and completed a Bachelor

of Technology in Agricultural Management

at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University’s

George campus.

He views the MPO as an organisation with a

moral high ground as far as providing the best

possible services to the South African dairy

industry and sees himself as an individual for

which ethical and moral farming practices are

of the utmost importance. As part of the MPOteam,

Kevin hopes to enhance the MPO’s

sustainability and profitability initiatives and

have a positive influence on the industry.

Mnandi Kruger is a dynamic young

professional with a passion for animals and

the outdoors. Born in Springs on the East

KORTLIKS | BRIEFLY

TWO NEW

DAIRY LOVERS

on the MPO team

Rand, Mnandi’s deep-rooted connection

to nature has shaped her personal and

professional journey. She studied at the

University of Potchefstroom, where she

developed strong interpersonal and

analytical skills.

After completing her studies, she returned

to the East Rand and entered the logistics

industry, where she worked as a logistical

controller for five years. Her practical

approach and dedication to problem-solving

have now led her to a new chapter in the

dairy sector. Mnandi recently joined the Milk

Producers’ Organisation (MPO), where her

energy and commitment are already making a

valuable contribution to the industry.

“When I showed up for my first interview

at the MPO, I was astonished to see how

passionate the personnel were about dairy

and dairy farmers. I realised how important

it is for this organisation to really make a

difference in the lives of the South African

dairy farmers and immediately knew that this

is where I belong.” says Mnandi.

The appointment of these two bright young

people is a sure step towards the MPO’s

mission to provide comprehensive support to

dairy farmers, ensuring the industry’s growth

and resilience in a competitive market.

The Dairy Mail extends our warmest

welcome to Kevin and Mnandi and look

forward to report on their future contributions

to the MPO’s success.

Read all about the MPO’s activities in each issue of The Dairy Mail.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

DAIRY ECONOMIC INDICATORS

MONITORING

DAIRY RETAIL PRICES

by Jade Smith, MPO economist

The MPO prepared the following tables to showcase how average

retail prices for fresh milk, long-life milk, and Cheddar cheese have

changed during the first quarter (January to March) from 2022 to

2025 (Source: BMI as supplied by Agri Inspec).

In the first three months of 2022, department’s own brand (DOB)

and Douglasdale recorded prices below R30,00. From 2023 to 2025,

prices during the same period rose above R30,00.


Table 1 Clover 2 L fresh full-cream milk prices

Clover January February March

2022 R30,80 R30,28 R29,83

2023 R37,23 R34,91 R35,85

2024 R36,57 R36,35 R38,26

2025 R35,99 R36,67 R36,19

Ј In March 2024, a 2 L Clover milk cost R2,41 more than in March 2023. In contrast, the

price shifted downwards by R2,07 in March 2025 compared to the previous year.

Ј From 2023 to 2025, similar price trends were observed during the first quarter, with

only slight variations.

Ј The most significant price changes occurred between 2022 and 2023, with upward

movements of R6,43 in January, R4,63 in February, and R6,02 in March.

Table 2 Douglasdale 2 L fresh full-cream milk prices

Douglasdale January February March

2022 R29,59 R28,79 R28,99

2023 R31,82 R32,90 R34,08

2024 R35,29 R36,09 R35,69

2025 R35,37 R34,99 R35,99

Ј In the first quarter of 2025, the price of a 2 L Douglasdale showed minimal variation,

with changes of R0,08 in January, R1,10 in February, and R0,30 in March, compared to

the same period in 2024.

Ј On average, the price of a 2 L Douglasdale in the first quarter of 2025 increased by

21% and 8% compared to 2022 and 2023, respectively. However, there was a slight

price decrease of 0,7% when compared to the same period in 2024.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Table 3 Department’s own brand 2 L fresh full-cream milk prices

DOB January February March

2022 R28,97 R29,16 R29,18

2023 R32,09 R33,74 R34,49

2024 R35,06 R35,26 R34,86

2025 R35,38 R35,09 R33,87

Ј In March 2025, DOB was the cheapest to purchase at R33,87, compared to Clover and

Douglasdale at R36,19 and R35,99, respectively.

Ј The price shifted downwards by R1,22 between February and March 2025.

Ј In March 2025, the price of a 2 L DOB increased by 16% compared to March

2022, while the price decreased by 2% and 3% compared to the same period in

2023 and 2024.

Table 4 Clover 1 L long-life milk prices

Clover January February March

2022 R17,87 R18,02 R18,02

2023 R18,83 R19,05 R19,25

2024 R20,38 R20,37 R21,07

2025 R20,86 R20,66 R20,48

Ј In the first quarter of 2025, Clover 1 L long-life milk experienced the smallest price

variation compared to Parmalat and Crystal Valley over the same period in 2024.

Ј On average, the price of a 1 L Clover long-life milk in the first quarter of 2025

increased by 20%, 9% and 0,3% compared to 2022, 2023, and 2024, respectively.


Table 5 Parmalat 1 L long-life milk prices

Parmalat January February March

2022 R17,45 R17,36 R17,80

2023 R18,89 R19,72 R19,82

2024 R21,16 R21,72 R22,23

2025 R21,88 R21,88 R21,16

Ј The price decreased by R0,72 in March 2025, compared to January and

February 2025.

Ј In March 2025, the price decreased by 5% compared to the same period in 2024.

Ј Overall, Parmalat was the most expensive brand to purchase, compared to

Clover and Crystal Valley.

Table 6 Crystal Valley 1 L long-life milk prices

Crystal Valley January February March

2022 R14,49 R14,70 R14,53

2023 R16,32 R16,35 R16,85

2024 R16,97 R17,11 R17,48

2025 R18,17 R18,33 R18,15

Ј Crystal Valley is the only brand to experience prices below R20,00.

Ј On average, the price of a 1 L Crystal Valley in the first quarter of 2025 increased by

25%, 10%, and 8% compared to 2022, 2023, and 2024, respectively.

Ј Overall, Crystal Valley remains the cheapest brand to purchase.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Table 7 Lancewood Cheddar cheese price/kg

Lancewood January February March

2022 R124,65 R128,56 R131,87

2023 R137,95 R150,76 R151,99

2024 R154,99 R153,99 R152,32

2025 R167,41 R165,81 R162,66

Ј In March 2025, the price decreased by R4,75 and R3,15 compared to January and

February 2025, respectively.

Ј On average, the price per kilogram for Lancewood Cheddar in the first quarter of 2025

increased by 29%, 13%, and 8% compared to 2022, 2023, and 2024, respectively.

Ј In March 2025, the price increased by 7% over the same period in 2024.

Table 8 Parmalat Cheddar cheese price/kg

Parmalat January February March

2022 R125,59 R126,81 R129,72

2023 R135,31 R143,08 R141,12

2024 R153,10 R154,98 R155,98

2025 R163,83 R162,94 R165,53

Ј In March 2025, the price of Parmalat Cheddar per kilogram was R2,87 and R8,87 more

expensive compared to Lancewood and Elite, respectively.

Ј On average, the price per kilogram for Parmalat Cheddar in the first quarter of 2025

increased by 29%, 17%, and 6% compared to 2022, 2023, and 2024, respectively.

Ј Overall, Parmalat was the most expensive Cheddar cheese to purchase.


Table 9 Elite Cheddar cheese price/kg

Elite January February March

2022 R119,49 R115,74 R109,32

2023 R133,91 R131,42 R127,42

2024 R144,28 R149,16 R142,13

2025 R149,99 R159,99 R156,66

Ј In the first quarter of 2022, Elite Cheddar was the only brand to experience a price per

kilogram below R120,00.

Ј In March 2025, the price increased by 4% compared to January and decreased by 2%

compared to February.

Ј Overall, Elite was the cheapest Cheddar cheese to purchase.

For more information

on retail prices,

contact JADE SMITH,

economist at the MPO

at jade@mpo.co.za


South African dairy

industry at a glance

PRIMARY SECTOR

In 2023, the South African dairy industry comprised:

882

producers

33 400

farm personnel

621 000

dairy cows

to produce >3,2 billion litres (estimate) of milk

and a total turnover of >R23,7 billion (estimate)

SA dairy farmers milk their cows 7 days a week, 365 days a year

16,1 litres

Average litres produced p/day

Dairy farmers take

stewardship

seriously!

They know that happy cows lead to happy farmers, so they do

everything they can to ensure their cows are content, including providing:

Nutritious feed

Excellent health care

Clean, fresh water


DAIRY

DIGITS

APRIL 2025

Dairy digits is a Milk SA feature. It is also

available on the Milk SA website: milksa.co.za.

Table 1 Key market indicators

Item Period Value

% change

(same period

previous year)

Unprocessed milk purchased (’000 tonnes) 2023 1 3 339 –0,3%

Unprocessed milk purchased (’000 tonnes) 2024 1 3 458 +3,56%

Unprocessed milk purchased (’000 tonnes) estimate Feb 25 1 252 +0,35%

Unprocessed milk purchased (’000 tonnes) estimate Jan-Feb 25 1 542 +0,94%

Dairy imports (’000 tonnes) 2024 2 33,9 –30,1%

Dairy imports (’000 tonnes) Jan 25 2 2,7 –42,55%

Dairy exports (’000 tonnes) 2024 2 53,5 -4,63%

Dairy exports (’000 tonnes) Jan 25 2 4,6 +35,29%

Dairy exports inclusive of sales to other SACU countries (’000 tonnes) 5 Jan 25 2 16 +12,68%

Producer price index of unprocessed milk (base Dec 23 = 100) 3 Feb 25 3 96,8 –4,9%

Farm requisite price index (base 2015 = 100) 4 Oct 24 4 142,9 –2,66%

Producer price index of dairy products (base Dec 23 = 100) 3 Feb 25 3 104,6 +3,3%

Source:

1

Milk SA returns

2

SARS statistics supplied by SAMPRO

3

Stats SA PPI index

4

Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural

Development (DALRRD) price index of farm requisites

5

SARS statistics supplied by Agri Inspec

Figure 1 International dairy product prices (free on board), Jan 2014–Feb 2025

150 000

130 000

Source:

USDA price surveys,

exchange rate South

African Reserve Bank

middle rates, last

month – average of

daily closing values.

110 000

Rand per t

90 000

70 000

50 000

Butter

SMP

Cheddar

FMP

30 000

10 000

Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19 Jan-20 Jan-21 Jan-22 Jan-23 Jan-24 Jan-25

Acronyms and abbreviations: Milk South Africa (Milk SA) • Milk Producers’ Organisation (MPO) • South African Milk Processors’

Organisation (SAMPRO) • Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) • South African Revenue Service (SARS) • United States Department of

Agriculture (USDA) • producer price index (PPI) • consumer price index (CPI) • Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural

Development (DALRRD) • full-cream milk powder (FMP) • skimmed milk powder (SMP) • ultra-high temperature (UHT) processed


DAIRY DIGITS

Figure 2 Monthly unprocessed milk purchase trends, Jan 2021–Feb 2025

360

340

Source:

Milk SA statistics.

Note: Each year's

figures are assessed,

reviewed, and

finalised by 31 March

of the ensuing year.

320

'000 t

300

280

260

240

220

Jan Feb March Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

2025*

2022

2023

2024

* Last two months

preliminary: sample survey

Figure 3 Monthly cumulative net imports, milk equivalent, Jan 2021–Jan 2025

200

150

Source:

MPO calculation

from SARS data

supplied by

SAMPRO.

1 000 t milk equivalent

100

50

0

Jan Feb March Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

-50

2025

2021

2022

2023

2024

-100

Figure 4 PPI indices of unprocessed milk and dairy products, and the CPI of milk,

cheese, and eggs, Jan 2014–Feb 2025

230

Source:

Stats SA PPI and

CPI information,

statssa.gov.za.

210

Index (2012 = 100)

190

170

150

130

110

90

Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19 Jan-20 Jan-21 Jan-22 Jan-23 Jan-24 Jan-25

Dairy products PPI

(full cream fresh milk,

full cream UHT milk,

cheddar cheese,

yoghurt & ice cream)

Unprocessed

milk PPI

Milk, cheese,

and eggs CPI

This publication is compiled from sources that are deemed reliable. However, Milk SA and the contributors to the publication

accept no responsibility for the accuracy of the information. The information is, furthermore, intended to provide market signals only

and Milk SA indemnifies itself against any actions based on this information.


CHOLINE

for transition cows:

INVEST SMART

FOR LONG-TERM PROFIT

by Caitlyn de Vos,

ruminant development manager,

Vitam International

The transition period is a make-or-break phase in a dairy cow’s life,

setting the stage for milk production, fertility, and overall health.

With high metabolic demands and an increased risk of disorders,

strategic nutrition is key. More and more research shows that

investing in rumen-protected choline helps transition cows start

strong, recover faster, and deliver better long-term productivity.



The transition period spans three weeks

pre- and post-calving and is arguably

the most challenging phase in a cow’s

life. During this time, cows undergo a series

of orchestrated metabolic changes to meet

the nutritional demands of late gestation

and early lactation, while also experiencing

immune dysfunction. Studies suggest

that up to 80% of metabolic disorders and

production-related diseases occur during

this period.

Negative energy balance

Approaching calving and continuing until

three to four weeks post-calving, dairy cows

enter a state of negative nutrient balance,

where the energy demands for foetal growth

and milk production exceed feed intake.

With dry matter intake (DMI) lagging behind

skyrocketing energy needs, cows mobilise

body fat reserves to meet their energy

demands. This leads to increased free fatty

acids, called non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA),

in the bloodstream. The liver must process

these NEFA for energy or export them as fat

via very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) to be

used for energy or stored elsewhere.

Fat mobilisation is essential at calving;

without it, less glucose would be available

to support milk production. However, the

liver’s capacity is often overwhelmed,

leading to fat accumulation and increased

blood ketones. Studies have reported that

between 50% and 60% of all transition cows

experience moderate to severe fatty liver,

which is associated with an increased risk

of ketosis, displaced abomasum, retained

foetal membranes, mastitis, metritis, poor

reproductive performance, and reduced

milk production.

Several feeding and management

strategies can help support postpartum

energy balance and reduce NEFA

mobilisation. This article focuses on one

proven approach: feeding rumen-protected

choline (RPC).

CHOLINE – it is essential

Choline is a vitamin-like nutrient essential

for fat metabolism, liver function, and

neurotransmission. Choline is a precursor to

phosphatidylcholine, a type of fat essential

for cell function, which is a key structural

component of VLDL. Supplementing choline

during the transition period helps cows

better manage increased fat mobilisation by

exporting NEFA out of the liver for delivery to

the mammary gland and other tissues instead

of storing it in the liver or converting it to

ketones. This alleviates fat accumulation and

the severity of fatty liver. However, as calving

approaches, choline demand rises for calf

growth, colostrum synthesis, and mammary

gland development. Since dietary choline

is almost entirely degraded in the rumen,

supplementing with RPC is essential to meet

the dairy cows’ needs.


CHOLINE supports cow

health and productivity

Central to a healthy transition is the liver’s

ability to make enough glucose to support

milk production. Choline improves liver health

and function, helping transition cows start

strong, recover faster, and deliver long-term

productivity. The recent meta-analysis by

Arshad et al. (2020) on RPC showed increases

in DMI and improved energy-corrected milk

(ECM) (+2,2 kg/cow/day), as well as protein,

and fat yields, compared to unsupplemented

cows. Overwhelming evidence exists to

support the benefits of RPC on lactation

performance. More than 25 university studies

have consistently shown an approximately

2,3 kg/cow/day increase in ECM. Remarkably,

the benefits of RPC continued beyond

supplementation in several studies, with

the increased milk production persisting

throughout lactation.

Choline plays a vital role in metabolic

health. Feeding RPC has been shown to

reduce metabolic disorders like ketosis, milk

fever, retained foetal membranes, mastitis,

and morbidity. Choline can also reduce

inflammatory markers and support immune

function to improve overall resilience.

New research shows that all transition cows

– not just overweight ones – benefit from RPC,

improving health, milk yield, and profitability.

CHOLINE boosts

calf performance

Beyond supporting transition cows, new

research shows added benefits for calves

when cows receive RPC. Choline plays a key

role in DNA methylation, which allows specific

genes to be ‘switched on’ or ‘switched off’ to

support healthy calf development.

Prepartum RPC supplementation has been

shown to improve calf immunity, lower fever

incidence, and support better well-being,

even during a health challenge. Zenobi et

al. (2022) showed that calves from RPCsupplemented

cows have better survivability,

with no deaths, compared to a 30% mortality

rate in calves from non-supplemented cows.

Prepartum RPC supplementation appears

to boost colostrum yield while maintaining

quality. Zenobi et al. (2018) also observed a

significant increase in immunoglobulins (IgG),

further supporting calf immunity.

Improved health and better feed intake

supports a better average daily gain.

Zenobi and colleagues observed an

increased growth rate of about 0,05 kg/

day, making these heifers 36 kg heavier at

first calving. These same heifers produced

an additional 1,8 kg of milk/day during their

first lactation compared to calves born to

unsupplemented cows.


Investing in

CHOLINE pays off

Investing in your transition cows, particularly

with RPC supplementation, delivers strong

financial returns through;

» Increased milk production: RPC

supplementation can add 2,3 kg more milk/

cow/day over a 305-day lactation (+ 700

kg/cow/year). At a milk price of R7,00/kg,

this generates about R4 915,00 more per

cow per year.

» Healthy transition: Reduced costly

periparturient disorders lead to fewer

veterinary interventions and lower

treatment costs.

» Less culling and mortality: RPC

supplementation has been shown to

reduce involuntary culling and mortality.

Heifer rearing costs are a top dairy

expense, and cows only break even after

two lactations, so retaining them longer is

crucial. With peak profitability estimated at

five lactations, longevity maximises returns.

» Better calf performance: Enhanced

colostrum yield and quality will reduce the

need for colostrum replacers. Additionally,

heavier heifers (+ 36 kg) at first calving can

potentially produce 1,8 kg more milk/day

during their first lactation, delivering about

524 kg more milk to boost farm income by

R3 670,00 per heifer.


IN CONCLUSION

A small, well-timed investment in choline

supplementation over just 42 days delivers

lasting benefits – healthier cows, higher

production, and greater profitability –

starting from day one and extending across

future generations.

For more information, contact the author

at caitlynv@vitam.co.za.

Proven to deliver results at every life stage

• 2.3 kg more milk per cow

• Healthier transition cows

• Increased colostrum volume

• Better calf health and growth

Product Reg #V24056 - Act36 of 1947

SCAN

or

27 10 442 9715

to Learn More


ALGEHELE

MELKHIGIËNE

Ons verskaf skoonmaak-in-plek stelsels, deeglike

Ons verskaf skoonmaak-in-plek stelsels, deeglike

Ons skoonmaak verskaf skoonmaak-in-plek - middels, ontsmettingsmiddels

stelsels, deeglike

skoonmaak - - middels, ontsmettingsmiddels

skoonmaak en spesialis oplossings middels, ontsmettingsmiddels

vir:

en en spesialis oplossings vir: vir:

en spesialis oplossings vir:

• • Massatenks

Massatenks

Massatenks

• • Melkmasjiene

Melkmasjiene

Melkmasjiene

• • Vervaardigingsaanlegte

Vervaardigingsaanlegte

Vervaardigingsaanlegte

011 708 0209

011 011 708 0209

011 708 0209

info@bransonchemicals.co.za



www.bransonchemicals.co.za





THE INFLUENCE OF

FLOORS and

WALKWAY

SURFACES on

LONGEVITY

Lameness problems in

cows can be prevented by

investing in construction, but

also in simple management

considerations like reducing

waiting times and exposure to

abrasive and unhygienic floors.

Lameness is detrimental to animal welfare

and fertility, and it is one of the three

main reasons for involuntary culling.

When dairy cows are confined, as in a freestall

system, their feet and legs are affected

by wear, trauma, and microorganisms. It is

imperative to optimise the cow’s ability to rest,

stand, and walk.

EXPOSURE and cow traffic

The comfort of the lying area, such as its

space and softness, influences the cow’s lying

time. Since the cow rests approximately 40%

to 60% of the day, the other 60% to 40% of the

day is spent standing for different activities

such as moving to feed, to milking, etc.

Any decrease in lying time will have an

adverse effect on feet and threaten claw

health if alley flooring is poor. Another reason

for prolonged exposure of the feet could be

overstocking. Overstocking by having two

heifers per stall has been shown to increase

standing time, lameness and sole horn

lesions. Cow traffic means the availability of

different resources for the cows.

Well-planned cow traffic should reduce the

risk of competitive interactions between cows

for milking, feeding, drinking, and finding a

resting place.


FLOORING

Even if the lying area is of utmost importance,

it cannot compensate for poor flooring

because animals still have to move around to

socialise, to feed, and to be milked.

The ability to exert each specific activity

such as resting, standing, and walking must

therefore be optimised. This means a softyielding

floor with enough friction to reduce

claw overgrowth, yet preventing over-wear

and avoiding poor hygiene by ensuring floors

are as dry and clean as possible. A study

that compared six different floorings with

different surfaces and structures showed that

locomotion was best and friction highest on

rubber floors.

Concrete is the most common base for

floors in cubicles and alleys, and the alleys

are either slatted or solid and scraped.

Concrete has advantages and disadvantages,

such as abrasiveness of new concrete and

slipperiness of older worn concrete. The

disadvantage of slipperiness with ageing

concrete has to be accounted for when

planning a barn.

Grooving the hard concrete is normally

better than stamped patterns. If the grooves

in the concrete are not satisfactorily sharp,

the flooring will be less comfortable over time,

compared to a floor in which grooves are

cut with sharp edges. Concrete flooring can

be covered with materials such as rubber or

mastic asphalt, which alter the growth and

wear of claw horn.

Mastic asphalt has very good frictional

properties but the wear-off rate (abrasion)

could be too high. The slipperiness of the

rubber matting on floors depends on the

rubber quality and the softness of the rubber.

If rubber is hard and smooth, it can be as

slippery as smooth concrete.

Several studies show that the introduction

of softer alleys with rubber surfaces improves

walking comfort of cows and results in fewer

laminitis-related claw diseases. Another study

shows that dairy cows had an 80% preference

for both standing and for walking on rubber

compared to concrete.

In a recent study by Christer Bergsten,

first-calving heifers were housed on slatted

concrete or slatted rubber mats during their

first lactation. The cows on slatted concrete

were 3,5 times more likely to be lame.

There is a high risk of lameness, as well as

claw and leg lesions, impairing behaviour

and welfare when dairy cows are introduced

to a new barn. The study compared the hoof

health of cows that were introduced to new

concrete versus new rubber mat flooring, in a

cubicle system with scraped alleys.

It showed that rubber alley flooring can

prevent and reduce such problems and

rapidly pay back the investment. In this study

it was 10 times more likely for a cow to become

lame on concrete than on rubber floors.

According to Bergsten, one dead or

euthanised cow less per year will pay for

an investment of 300 m 2 of rubber mats in

10 years (in Sweden, a dead cow is estimated

to cost approximately €2 300 / US$3 000).



HYGIENE

All types of floors should separate urine to

reduce ammonia emission. This is most easily

done with slatted flooring, where urine is

separated instantly.

Most of the manure is drained through the

slats depending on the design of the slats,

manure consistency, cow traffic, and presence

or absence of scrapers. Urine can also be

separated and drained on solid floors if the

floors are sloped to a midway, parallel canal.

It is counterproductive for claw health if

a ‘wave’ of manure flushes the feet when

scraping. The use of feed stalls can protect

the feet from dirt and if they are equipped

with rubber, they provide soft flooring

when feeding.

Feed stalls also allow the cows to avoid

any manure ‘wave’. Scrapers are also efficient

on slatted flooring and in robot milking

systems. Robotic scrapers are becoming more

common and they improve claw health and

stall hygiene because less dirt is transported

into the stall.

FOOT BATHING

Foot bathing can prevent and treat infectious

claw diseases but can be difficult to manage.

Copper sulphate in different concentrations

has been widely used and is the only solution

with a documented effect besides formalin.

Because of environmental and health

concerns with copper and formalin,

respectively, alternatives are needed.

The old way of foot bathing has to be

developed into easier systems to wash and

treat feet. New foot-washing systems are

under development with promising results.

Washing feet automatically is most likely ‘the’

method for the future.

If the skin is clean, bacteria are deprived of

nutrients and die, and disinfectants can act

more effectively than in today’s walk-through

foot baths, which rely on heavy metals or

formalin – both of which are undesirable.

Invest in management:

» Maintain hygiene, manage flooring,

and eliminate possible traps for

traumatic injuries.

» Reduce unnecessary exposure of feet

and legs to hard, abrasive, and unhygienic

floors by ensuring excellent cow comfort

with one cubicle per cow.

» Reduce waiting time for milking.

» Provide enough space at the manger

and ensure feed availability for all cows,

24 hours a day.

Invest in construction:

» Invest in soft, resilient flooring with rubber

of excellent quality.

» Invest in urine drainage on solid floors by

sloping floors towards cleansing canals.

» Preferably invest in rubber-matted,

slatted flooring with scrapers –

traditional or robotic.

» Invest in feed stalls with rubber mats.

» Prepare firm and well-drained exits and

gateways to pasture.


FORGE – Die baanbreker meerjarige basterraaigras

Gee jou weidings die voorsprong

FORGE – ‘n nuwe era vir basterraaigras is hier!

HOEKOM FORGE?

75% meerjarige + 25% Italiaanse raaigras – krag en spoed in een pakket

Mediumtermyn oplossing (2–3 jaar weiding) met vinnige vestiging en hergroei

Tetraploïed = meer energie, meer smaak, meer produksie

Goeie winter- en vroeë lente-opbrengs – voer wanneer jy dit die nodigste het

Tot 14% hoër opbrengs in proewe vs. ander basters

Ideaal vir oorsaai van uitgedunde weidings

Pas aan by meeste grondtipes en ondersteun multi-spesie stelsels

Forge – die Barenbrug-verskil onder jou voete.

Landwyd beskikbaar

Tel: 021 979 1303 | info@barenbrug.co.za

42 www.barenbrug.co.za

THE DAIRY MAIL • APRIL 2025

PROMOSIE-ARTIKEL • ADVERTORIAL

FORGE – die baanbreker

meerjarige basterraaigras

Basterraaigras is ontwikkel as ’n tipe

raaigras wat bestaan uit ’n meerjarige

spesie gekruis met ’n eenjarige

spesie. Gewoonlik sal die eenjarige spesie

Italiaanse raaigras wees, wat gevolglik

met ’n meerjarige raaigras gekruis word.

Die idee agter die skepping van hierdie

baster spesie was om die vinnige en hoë

opbrengs wat die Italiaanse raaigras lewer

te komplementeer met die volhoubaarheid

van ’n meerjarige raaigras, en sodoende die

potensiaal te skep om dit vir meer as een

jaar te kan benut.

Basterraaigras hou baie voordele in en

word geag as een van die beste grasse

wat beskikbaar is vir boere wat intensiewe

stelsels bestuur. Die meerjarige komponent

ondersteun ook ’n toename in halm- en

blaarproduksie wat nie net ’n groter

grondbedekking realiseer nie, maar ook

voordelig is vir goeie weidingbestuur.

Forge is Barenbrug se nuutste basterraaigras

wat bestaan uit 75% meerjarige

raaigras met ’n 25% Italiaanse raaigras

komponent. Die uitstaande kenmerk van

hierdie kultivar is die volhoubaarheid van

hierdie gras – ’n basterraaigras wat as ’n

meerjarige gras geplant kan word. Forge

word geklassifiseer as ’n mediumtermyn

raaigras wat in 2 tot 3 jaar-weidings geplant

kan word. Dit is ’n tetraploïede baster met

’n hoë halmdigtheid wat nie net goeie

produksie en goeie diere-inname verseker

nie, maar ook bestuur vergemaklik. Die

tetraploïede eienskap van Forge bied

’n hoër verteerbare energie-inhoud, wat

smaaklikheid in die weiding bevorder en

uitstekende diereproduksie lewer.

Forge word gekenmerk deur sy spoedige

vestiging en vinnige hergroei na weiding,

wat dit ’n ideale kandidaat maak vir die

insaai van uitgedunde weidings. Dit is

’n medium tot laat blom-tipe (+11 dae)

wat goed sal aanpas by gematigde

omstandighede met optimale groei by

temperature tussen 10 en 30˚ C. Dit is

aangepas op die meeste grondtipes en

ondersteun multispesiestelsels waar klawers

en kruie teenwoordig is. Hierdie kultivar

toon besonderse potensiaal deur nie net

verhoogde opbrengs oor die seisoene te

lewer nie, maar ook ’n hoër verteerbare

energie lewer wat ’n drywer is vir melk- en

vleisproduksie. Forge het uitgestaan met

minstens 14% hoër opbrengste in proewe

in Nieu-Seeland waar dit met ander basters

vergelyk is. Hierdie groei word toegeskryf

aan beter winter- en vroeëlente-produksie,

hoofsaaklik weens beter oorlewing.

Toestande tydens vestiging

bly van kritieke belang vir goeie

resultate by raaigras. Buiten goeie

grondbedvoorbereiding en regstellings

ten opsigte van nutriënte en pH, is die

ideale grondtemperatuur vir Forge in die

omgewing van 10 – 15˚ C. Temperature

onder 8˚ C kan vestiging vertraag. Goeie

weidingbestuur gaan bepalend wees tot

Forge se sukses. Volg dus die riglyn van ’n

2½ - 3 blaarstadium as ideaal vir diere om

te begin wei.

Met Forge het Barenbrug ’n nuwe mark

vir basterraaigras ontwikkel wat dit enig

in sy soort maak. Bederf dus gerus jou

meerjarige weidingstelsels met hierdie

tegnologie. Plant Forge en voeg waarde

toe tot jou plaas!

Vir meer inligting besoek www.barenbrug.co.za

Tel: 021 979 1303 | info@barenbrug.co.za


deur Hanlie du Plessis

Kalfgrootmaak in die eerste ses maande

na geboorte gaan steeds gepaard

met hoë sterfteen morbiditeitsyfers.

’n Onlangse studie oor kalfsterftesyfers in

Duitsland het verliese van so hoog as 17%

op melkplase getoon. Hierdie hoë sterfteen

morbiditeitsyfers is nie in lyn met die

wêreldwye beweging ter bevordering van die

welsyn en gesondheid van plaasdiere nie.

Die uiteindelike doel van kalfgrootmaak bly

steeds om ’n gesonde, hoogs produktiewe

melkkoei voort te bring en dit is slegs

moontlik wanneer die gesondheid van

voorspeenkalwers hoog op die prioriteitslys

van die melkboer is.

Die drie sleutelfaktore wat kalfsterftes

kan verminder en melkopbrengs

verhoog is:

» die higiëne in die kalfhokke,

» die beheer van

Cryptosporidium parvum, en

» die implementering van ’n behoorlike

biesmelkprogram.



Cryptosporidium parvum

By geboorte is ’n kalf se immuunstelsel

nog nie ten volle ontwikkel nie en is swak

higiëne- en bestuurspraktyke is gewoonlik die

hoofoorsaak van Cryptosporidium parvuminfeksie.

Die klein 2–6 mikron koksidiese

protosoë-organisme besmet hoofsaaklik die

dunderm, wat tot diarree en die beskadiging

van die dermvilli lei. Die gevolg is dat

voedingstowwe nie behoorlik geabsorbeer

kan word nie, wat dikwels lei tot sterfte van

pasgebore kalwers, of belemmering van hul

groei, wat uiteindelik ’n negatiewe impak op

melkproduksie kan hê.

Dit is moeilik om C. parvum te beheer,

aangesien dit oösiste vorm. Dié beskermende

buitenste laag maak die organisme bestand

teen ontsmetting. In ’n melkstal is daar altyd

vloeistowwe, en kalwers met ’n C. parvuminfeksie

is ook vatbaar vir Escherichia coli,

salmonella en die coronavirus of rotavirus.

Cryptosporidium kom algemeen voor in Suid-

Afrika en word meestal gediagnoseer wanneer

chroniese diarree by jong kalwers voorkom.

Alhoewel sterftes dalk nie altyd hoog is nie,

is morbiditeit, asook ander infeksies dan

volop omdat die kalwers se immuniteitsvlakke

nog laag is.

Die C. parvum in die ingewande word deur

mis, water, melk en kos oorgedra. Sodra dit

via mis uitgeskei word, kan die organisme

vir ’n lang tydperk in die grond oorleef, waar

dit spore vorm en tot gevolg het dat die

omgewing met baie meer organismes besmet

word. C. parvum kan as waarskynlike diagnose

oorweeg word wanneer kalwers tussen

vyf en 15 dae oud met diarree presenteer.

By lammers kan dit tussen twee en 10 dae oud

voorkom, en by bokke tussen vyf en 21 dae

oud. Kalwers het gewoonlik laer sterftes, maar

toon hoë vlakke van morbiditeit en moontlike

infeksie deur ander siektes.

Die inkubasietydperk van C. parvum is

ongeveer vier dae. Kliniese tekens soos

anoreksie, weiering om melk te drink en

’n geel, stopverf-agtige diarree is ’n sekere

aanduiding. Nadoodse ondersoeke toon

dermletsels, geel derminhoud, bloeding

gemeng met die derminhoud en in die

ingewande. Dit is belangrik dat ’n veearts

’n monster neem en dit na ’n patoloog stuur.

Daarmee kan vasgestel word of die siekte na

die res van die kudde versprei het. Daar is

geen spesifieke behandeling vir C. parvum

nie. Die inneem van elektroliete om natrium

aan te vul, asook genoeg vloeistowwe is

van kardinale belang. Sekondêre bakteriële

infeksies moet ook behandel word. Inenting

teen coronavirus en rotavirus, en die

versterking van die immuunstelsel met

spoorelemente en vitamien A is noodsaaklik.

Higiëne en bestuur

Omgewingsbeheer is dikwels die beste

manier om C. parvum te vermy. Dit is

noodsaaklik om kalfkampe te roteer en leeg

te laat tydens rotasie, aangesien kalwers

binne ’n paar uur besmet kan word nadat

hulle in ’n kamp geplaas is waar C. parvum

aanwesig is. Siek diere moet weggehou word

van gesondes. Net so moet kalwers nie by ’n

veiling aangekoop word nie, tensy ’n mens

weet waar hulle vandaan kom en wat die

kuddegesondheid was voordat hul verkoop is.


Voergereedskap en emmers moet

skoongemaak word, en rotte en vlieë moet

onder beheer gehou word, aangesien hulle

C. parvum kan oordra. Mense wat kalfkampe

of hokke binnegaan, moet beheer word, en

iemand moet aangewys word om net met die

kalwers te werk. As dit nie moontlik is nie, moet

persone wat met die beeste werk, die kalwers

hul eerste taak van die dag maak. Hiervoor

moet hulle ten minste hul skoene ontsmet of

skoene dra wat slegs gebruik word om met die

kalwers te werk. Hou ook in gedagte dat die

voertuig wat die melk kom laai, daagliks ook

op baie ander melkplase kom en dat jou diere

weggehou moet word daarvan.

BIESMELK

Voldoende inname van biesmelk is van

kardinale belang: ’n kalf moet binne ses uur ná

geboorte 10% van sy gewig inneem. Biesmelk

help om ’n kalf se immuunstelsel te bou, en

’n koei wat aan C. parvum blootgestel is, kan

teenliggaampies aan haar kalf oordra deur

middel van haar biesmelk. Volgens navorsing

het die meeste Holstein-genetika-koeie die

potensiaal om 15 000 L per laktasie te melk.

As ’n koei nie hierdie volume bereik nie, is

dit gewoonlik as gevolg van omgewingsen

bestuursfaktore. Om haar volle potensiaal

te kan bereik, moet ’n koei ’n voorsprong kry

wanneer sy ’n kalf is, en daarvoor is ’n goeie

biesmelkprogram ’n moet.

Afhangend van die ras, het ’n kalf ’n

geboortegewig van tussen 28 kg en 52 kg.

’n Holstein-kalf moet byvoorbeeld ’n hoë

60 dae-speengewig van ongeveer 100 kg

bereik, wat beteken dat sy teen ’n tempo

van ongeveer 1 kg/dag moet groei. ’n

Kalf wat ’n goeie begin het, sal vinniger

groei, kalfouderdom gouer bereik en hoër

melkproduksie lewer. Produksie is slegs

optimaal indien die koei as kalf toegang tot

genoeg biesmelk gehad het, indien daar ’n

goeie biesmelkprogram in plek was, en indien

sy nog melk gevoer is voordat sy gespeen is.

Dit is ’n feit dat melk met biesmelk die

beste voeding vir ’n kalf is. ’n Holstein-koei

se melk bevat 3,2% proteïen en 3,8% melkvet.

’n Droë melkvervanger met 20% proteïen en

16% vet sal slegs 2,5% proteïen en 2% lae vet

beskikbaar hê sodra dit gemeng is, en het

dus ’n baie laer proteïen- en melkvetinhoud

as gepasteuriseerde volvetmelk. Biesmelk

het ook komponente wat melkvervangers nie

het nie; byvoorbeeld hormone wat ’n sein na

’n kalf se brein stuur wat hom vertel om sy

daaglikse inname te verhoog.

Dit is noodsaaklik vir ’n melkboer om te weet

wat die kwaliteit van die biesmelk is, anders sal

die kalf nie voldoende immunoglobulien-G

ontvang nie, en so ook nie voldoende

teenliggaampies teen patogene opbou

en ’n goeie immuunstelsel ontwikkel nie.

Ideaal gesproke moet daar ’n sekere vlak

van teenliggaampies per milliliter biesmelk

teenwoordig wees.



Die aanbeveling is om 6 liter biesmelk te

voer voordat ’n kalf 12 uur oud is. Ná 12 uur

neem die vermoë om teenliggaampies op

te neem vinnig af. Ideaal gesproke moet ’n

kalf 2 liter biesmelk kry wanneer dit twee

uur oud is, dan nog 2 liter twee uur later,

en die res voordat die kalf 12 uur oud is. As

jy net 4 liter voer, kan die kalf nie genoeg

teenliggaampies inkry nie.

Nuwe tegnologie maak dit moontlik om

presies te bepaal wanneer ’n kalf gebore

is, en wat en hoe dit gevoer is. As ’n kalf nie

self genoeg biesmelk wil inneem nie, kan ’n

maagbuis gebruik word. Navorsing bewys

dat as jy biesmelkinname vir ’n kalf van 2

tot 4 liter verhoog, die oorlewingsyfer tot

tweede laktasie met 12% toeneem. Indien

jy dus 100 koeie melk, sal nog 12 oorleef tot

tweede laktasie en hierdie koeie produseer

ook meer melk. Goeie biesmelk laat boonop

’n kalf se insulien- en glukosevlakke gelyktydig

verhoog, wat die kanse op oorlewing nog

beter maak. Navorsing dui daarop dat kalwers

beter vaar as hulle biesmelk tot die ouderdom

van vier dae gevoer word.

Meet biesmelk met ’n Brix-meter. ’n Brixmeter,

wat vir onder R1 000 aangekoop kan

word, is gekalibreer op die Brix-skaal en

korreleer met die teenliggaamvlak in biesmelk.

Die eerste 60 dae van ’n verskalf se lewe het

’n langtermyn-uitwerking op haar produksie.

As sy in hierdie tydperk verwaarloos word, sal

sy nooit haar genetiese melkpotensiaal bereik

nie. Vir elke gram wat ’n kalf per dag groei, sal

sy een liter meer in haar eerste laktasie melk.

As ’n kalf se gemiddelde daaglikse toename

500 g is en jy haar tot 800 g kan neem, is dit

moontlik om ’n bykomende 300 L van haar

eerste laktasie te kry.

Proteïenprogram

Die proteïeninhoud van melk beïnvloed ook

groei. Melkproteïen is meer verteerbaar as

plantaardige of ander dierlike proteïenbronne.

Sommige melkprodusente gebruik ’n 28%

proteïen-melkvervanger (droë basis, wat

nadat dit gemeng is ongeveer 3% nat proteïen

beteken) vir 10 dae met ’n hoëproteïenvoerkorrel

(ten minste 26% droë materiaal),

en verminder dan die proteïen in die korrels

tot 21% droëmateriaalproteïen (minimum

18% ). Hierdie kuddes word gevoer volgens

’n proteïenprogram gebaseer op ouderdom

en groeitempo. Ideaal gesproke behoort die

program hoog te begin en dan mettertyd

af te neem, want dit is wat ’n kalf nodig het.

Wanneer na die voerbehoeftes van ’n kalf van

50 kg op twee tot drie weke gekyk word, en

’n gemiddelde daaglikse toename van 800 g

word verlang, is die kalf se proteïenbehoefte

27,6%. Indien sy slegs 18% proteïen inkry,

sal sy op ’n koue winterdag net ongeveer

200 g optel.

Melk bly die goedkoopste vorm

van proteïen om ’n hoë daaglikse

groeitempo te bewerkstellig. Daar is goeie

melkvervangers op die mark, maar dan moet

’n boer in samewerking met sy verskaffers,

voedingkundige of veearts gaan sit en

uitwerk wat die kalwers se optimale daaglikse

groeitempo moet wees, en dan vasstel

hoeveel melk en voer benodig word.

Maar die slotsom is dat die toekoms van ’n

kalf, en haar uiteindelike kuddeproduktiwiteit,

by biesmelk begin.


WE CARE ABOUT

YOUR CALVES

Curious how to reach an ADG of 1 kg?

We support you in achieving this growth

by focusing on 4 key topics. Because we

believe that an optimal calf rearing results

in healthy calves, high performing heifers

leading to a productive and healthy herd.

For a better life for both farmer and cows.

Colostrum

High quality whey proteins

High quality whey proteins for a quicker digestion. Whey

contributes to roughage and concentrate intake which

supports rumen development and prevention of weaning dip.

Housing

Calf milk

replacer

40% coconut oil

40% of spray dried fat is highly digestible coconut oil. This

contributes to 50% reduction of faecal disorders compared

to 20% or less coconut oil included. In addition coconut oil

has antimicrobial properties.

Colostrum

Hygiene

Good colostrum management results in more growth, better

health and higher milk yield in lactation (Faber et al., 2005).

Below the critical steps to take:

1. Milk the cow as soon as possible after birth of the calf.

2. Make sure the colostrum is obtained hygienic to keep

pathogenic cell count as low as possible.

3. Check colostrum quality with a refractometer (BRIX

meter).

4. Determine the number of liters the calf needs at

minimum with the help of the colostrum protocol.

5. Use a colostrum supplement if the quality is not

6. Supply 200 g IgG within 4 hours after birth + at least

15% of body weight within 24 hours.

7. Supply also colostrum on day 2.

8. Feed the colostrum at a temperature of 40˚C.

9. Save colostrum of good quality in freezer.

Calf milk replacer

A premium calf milk replacer is crucial for good calf rearing.

Kalvolac contributes to excellent growth and health by the

following unique ingredients:

IMAGRO®

Combination of pre-biotic (GOS), pro-biotic and organic acids

that has antimicrobial properties and contributes to optimal

infant nutrition.

Contributes to optimal fat digestion and reduction of feacal

disorders.

CAIR

Mix of herbs and essential oils that contributes to a healthy

respiratory tract.

• 33% less respiratory discomfort.

• 33% reduction of medicine use related to

respiratory health.

• 15% increase of concentrate intake.

• 10% growth in calves.

20% fat

Fat is important for the supply of energy for the young

animal.

Easy to use

Can be used directly after colostrum

and is suitable for all feeding systems.

Info and ordering

T: 021 932 2019 | www.lionelsvet.co.za

Kalvolac Cair | Reg.no: V29370 (Act 36/1947) | Registration holder: Lionel’s Veterinary Supplies (Pty) Ltd, PO Box 901, Sanlamhof, 7532



THE

IDEAL CALF

STARTER FEED

by Katinka Neethling, technical manager, Epol

The physical form and particle

size of calf feed have been

studied for years, with the age-old

question – “What does the ideal

calf starter feed look like?” – is

still a common topic of debate in

the dairy industry today.

The development

of dairy calves into

functional ruminants is a

critical aspect of dairy farming,

as it directly impacts their

growth and future performance.

The physical form of calf starter

feed plays a significant role in

this developmental process.


The digestive system of the

newborn calf

Newborn calves are not functioning

ruminants, and their rumen development

depends on the chemical composition

of their diet and its fermentation. The

abomasum is the only fully developed

stomach compartment in the newborn calf

and constitutes about 60% of the stomach

capacity. It operates similarly to a human

stomach, releasing digestive enzymes to

break down milk. When a calf drinks milk,

the oesophageal groove – a muscular fold

– closes to form a tube that directs the milk

directly to the abomasum, bypassing the

underdeveloped rumen, reticulum, and

omasum. This mechanism ensures that milk is

efficiently digested in the abomasum without

undergoing fermentation in the rumen.

As the calf begins to consume dry feed,

the rumen starts to develop. The introduction

of solid feed stimulates the growth of the

rumen’s microbial population, which is

essential for fermentation. By around four

weeks of age, the reticulum and rumen

begin to grow and take on a more significant

role in digestion. The rumen’s capacity and

functionality continue to increase, and by 12

weeks of age, it makes up more than twothirds

of the total stomach capacity.

Introducing solids

One of the most important steps in the

introduction to solid feed is to ensure that

calves have starter feed available from at least

three days of age. Feed should be presented

at a height that is easily accessible by the calf,

usually in a feeder next to the water bucket,

around shoulder height for the calf.

A wise strategy is to temporarily remove

the feed bucket while calves are drinking

milk, to prevent milk from spilling onto or

contaminating the feed and leading to

spoilage. Feed buckets should be made

available again immediately after the calf has

consumed all their milk.

How should a starter feed look?

Grinding grains increases starch digestion

due to the larger surface area available for

microbial fermentation. Pelleting involves

heating and forming elongated rods, which

can increase starch gelatinisation, thereby

improving digestibility. Starch gelatinisation

is the irreversible process in which starch

granules, when heated in the presence of

water, swell and absorb water, resulting in a

thick, viscous solution.

Textured starters, which consist of grains

combined with a pelleted supplement,

promote rumination and salivation, which act

as a buffer in the rumen preventing acidosis.

Many sizes of pelleted calf starters are

available on the market, but what size is

ideal? Studies performed at Harper Adams

University in England compared feed intake

between calf starter pellets with a diameter of

between 3 mm and 6 mm.

Feed intakes were significantly higher for

the larger pellets, helping calves consume

more nutrients and supporting their growth

and development.

Heat starch

granules in liquid

Starch granules

absorb water

and swell

Starch granules

continue to swell and

eventually rupture

The liquid thickens

and gelatinises



Should roughage

be supplemented?

Another controversial topic is whether

additional roughage should be supplied

along with starter pellets. The answer to this

lies in the raw material composition of the

pellet and the size of the particles within.

The aim of feeding roughage is to prevent

a decline in the pH of the rumen and to

stimulate rumination.

Should the starter feed already supply

ample roughage that is not too finely ground,

additional roughage could be unnecessary

and offer no benefit. The process of starch

fermentation in the rumen of a young calf

produces fatty acids that stimulate the growth

of finger-like papillae. These papillae serve as

the absorption surface for nutrients. The more

papillae, the more efficiently the animal can

absorb nutrients throughout its lifetime.

ruminants. It should be introduced early, be

easily accessible, and consist of appropriately

sized pellets to encourage higher feed intake

and nutrient absorption.

The inclusion of roughage within the starter

feed can further support rumen development

and prevent acidosis, provided it is not too

finely ground.

By carefully considering the physical

form, particle size, and composition of the

starter feed, dairy farmers can significantly

enhance the growth and future performance

of their calves, ensuring a healthy and

productive herd.

TAKE-HOME MESSAGE:

In conclusion, the ideal calf starter feed is

a critical component in the development

of dairy calves into efficiently functioning


ZERO HUNGER

& SUSTAINABLE

AGRICULTURE

IT’S TIME TO TAKE CARE

OF FOOD SECURITY.

IT’S TIME TO TAKE CARE

OF THE ENVIRONMENT.

IT’S TIME FOR

TO LEAD THE FUTURE OF

MILK PRODUCTION.

Our USA-made Lactatropin

technology allows for fewer cows to

produce the same amount of milk,

resulting in a reduction of carbon

emissions in the atmosphere.

Persistence of milk

production (average slopes)

during cycles between control

cows and cows treated with

rbST (Lactatropin ® ) over 17

injections every 14 days.

Lactatropin ® ,

compared to the

control group,

produced

796 KGS

MORE MILK!

in entire lactation1.

1De Morais et al. 2017.

J. Dairy Sci. 100-5945-5956.

TO ORDER,

CONTACT

US ON


Reg.no: G2167 (Act 36/1947) | Reg. holder: Lionel’s Veterinary Supplies (Pty) Ltd (2001/011520/07), 7 Isotope St, Stikland, Cape Town | Tel: 021 932 2019


ANIMAL WELFARE,

HEALTH AND

SUSTAINABILITY

by Dr Anne Koontz,

research manager, Alltech

Sustainability in agriculture extends beyond

reducing carbon emissions to include the well-being

of people, ecosystems, and animals. Animal welfare

is a vital aspect of sustainable farming. Humane

livestock treatment benefits animals, supports

healthier ecosystems, and reduces antibiotic use.

Prioritising animal welfare strengthens

agricultural resilience and fosters a

balanced relationship between people,

animals, and the land.

Animal welfare includes the physical and

mental well-being of animals, ensuring they

receive proper nutrition, housing, disease

prevention care, and treatment. High welfare

standards allow animals to live free from

pain, fear, and distress and express natural

behaviours, aligning with the Five Freedoms

– a widely recognised standard in welfare and

quality assessment programmes.


CONSUMER DEMAND

for animal welfare

Consumer awareness and concern for animal

welfare have been on the rise globally, driven

by increased access to information and a

growing emphasis on ethical consumption.

Statistics show that animal welfare is a

significant factor in consumer purchasing

decisions: A study in 2023 by the European

Commission found that 91% of European

Union citizens believe that ensuring farm

animal welfare is important. According to a

2024 survey by NSF International, 67% of

consumers say animal welfare impacts their

purchasing decisions, but only 38% feel well

informed about food animal welfare standards.

More than one-third of consumers look for

‘better for the planet’ options (38%), followed

by people and animal welfare options at 36%

and 34%, respectively, according to the Power

of Meat report from the Meat Institute and the

Food Industry Association.

These statistics underscore the importance

of animal welfare to consumers and highlight

the need for businesses to align their

practices with consumer expectations.

BUSINESS COMMITMENTS

to health and welfare

Leading agrifood companies and

organisations are increasingly committing

to higher animal welfare standards, driven

by consumer demand and the recognition

of its role in sustainable and ethical

food production.

The strategy of the United Kingdom's

Department for Environment, Food and

Rural Affairs (DEFRA) integrates high

welfare standards into United Kingdom

trade agreements and agricultural policies,

aiming to uphold these standards for imports

and to promote them globally. The United

States Roundtable for Sustainable Beef

(USRSB) views animal welfare as essential

to sustainable beef production, advocating

humane and science-based practices,

continuous improvement, and transparency.

The United States Pork Board emphasises

animal welfare in pork production, supporting

proper care, natural behaviours, and

ongoing improvement through research

and education.

PROMOTING HEALTH

to support animal welfare

Animal welfare impacts food quality, safety,

and sustainability. The Five Freedoms,

including ‘freedom from pain, injury, and

disease’, highlight the link between animal

health and welfare recognised by the

World Organisation for Animal Health, the

Food and Agriculture Organization of the

United Nations, and the European Food

Safety Authority. Good welfare practices

result in healthier animals that produce

better-quality meat, milk, or eggs; reduce

disease incidence; minimise antibiotic use;

and lower the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Additionally, sustainable welfare practices

help reduce the environmental footprint of

livestock production by promoting efficient

resource use.



Mycotoxins

Mycotoxins, toxic compounds produced

by certain fungi, threaten animal health

and productivity by causing issues like

immunosuppression, organ damage,

and reduced reproductive performance,

with severe cases leading to increased

mortality. Alltech’s meta-analyses on

broilers, laying hens, and pigs across 56

trials with 15 246 animals demonstrated

that effective adsorbents like yeast cell

wall extract, used during mycotoxin

exposure, improved animal health,

reduced growth issues, enhanced feed

conversion, and lowered mortality rates.

Lameness

Lameness is a major welfare issue in

livestock, impacting mobility, productivity,

and overall well-being. A Canadian

feedlot study found that lameness

accounted for 40% of health problems

treated. Zinc (Zn) is vital for keratinisation,

and low Zn levels can lead to poor-quality

keratin, hoof disorders, and lameness.

Supplementing with bioavailable organic

Zn can improve hoof keratinisation and

help prevent lameness due to better

absorption and utilisation by the body.

Mastitis

Mastitis, an inflammation of the mammary

gland, is a costly disease in dairy cows,

leading to pain, reduced milk yield, and

increased veterinary costs. Effective

approaches to mastitis involve enhancing

immune function and promoting udder

health and cleanliness. Supplementing

cows with organic selenium significantly

reduces subclinical mastitis cases and

lowers somatic cell counts, indicating

improved udder health in dairy cows.

Gut health

Optimal gut health is essential for the

overall well-being and productivity of

livestock. A healthy gut promotes efficient

digestion and nutrient absorption,

supports immune function, and reduces

disease risk. Specific yeast-derived feed

additives have been shown to lower

morbidity and mortality rates in nursery

pigs by supporting intestinal health and

immune response. By fostering a healthy

gut environment, animal welfare and

performance can be enhanced.

SHAPING THE FUTURE

of sustainable agriculture

Animal welfare is a crucial aspect of modern

livestock production, focusing on the

ethical treatment of animals to ensure their

health and well-being. With rising consumer

demand for higher welfare standards, the

agri-food sector is adopting innovative

solutions to improve animal welfare across

the value chain, from farmers to retailers,

setting new benchmarks for a more ethical,

sustainable future in food production.


The Role of

Automated Monitoring

in Heifer Selection

By Dr Caroline Brits (BVSc)

SenseHub Dairy Youngstock delivers insights that help the

farmer and veterinarian have earlier BRD diagnosis with

a lower prevalence of lung lesions at weaning; positively

impacting the survival rates on the farm.

In the modern dairy industry, the selection and management of

replacement heifers is crucial for long-term herd productivity and

profitability. There is a delicate balance in raising replacement

heifers with minimal costs while still ensuring that she reaches

optimal production performance. By ensuring that she achieves

her growth milestones as quickly as possible and still remains

healthy is a sure way of obtaining a return on investment.

Cattle are extremely stoic animals and are able to mask symptoms;

making it more difficult to address diseases, heat stress; and

nutritional disturbances in a timely manner. The rise of automated

monitoring systems, such as SenseHub, has transformed

traditional management practices by providing real-time data and

insights into the health and performance of heifers.

This article explores how

these technologies can

enhance the selection

process, including early

disease detection,

ultimately leading

to healthier, more

productive animals.

1

The Importance of Replacement Heifers 1,2

Replacement heifers are vital for maintaining herd size and productivity. Heifers that calve

at 23 – 24 months of age typically recoup the cost of their rearing by their second lactation.

Conversely, heifers that calve beyond the recommended age may require up to 6 lactations to

achieve profitability, posing a significant risk of being culled before they become economically

viable.

According to a study in the Journal of Dairy Science by Nor et al.; it highlights the importance

of determining the optimal number of replacement heifers and balancing rearing costs with

herd sustainability. Raising too many heifers increases feed, housing; and labour costs,

while too few can lead to production gaps. Therefore, strategic selection, based not only on

genetics, but health and economic efficiencies, ensures that only the best heifers enter the

milking herd, maximising lifetime milk yield and overall farm profitability.


PROMOSIE-ARTIKEL • ADVERTORIAL

2

Health Monitoring and Early Disease Detection 3,4

Early disease detection in dairy calves is essential for improving

long-term productivity, as illnesses such as calfhood respiratory

disease (BRD) and neonatal diarrhoea can have lasting negative

effects on growth, reproduction, and milk production. Studies

show that Holstein calves diagnosed with BRD before 6 months

of age produce 525 kg less milk in their first lactation and are more

likely to be culled early. Similarly, calves that experience neonatal

diarrhoea tend to have reduced average daily gain and significantly

lower first-lactation milk yield. Poor early- life health also delays age

at first calving and reduces conception rates, leading to long-term

inefficiencies in reproduction management. Systems like SenseHub

provide farmers with critical information regarding the health status

of their heifers and cows. Early disease detection can trigger timely

interventions, reducing the risk of severe health issues.

SenseHub Dairy

is the only system

capable of lifetime

monitoring of cattle

from birth to end

of life.

Click to view

lung lesion study

3

Data-Driven Decision Making 5

In a study comparing automated monitoring systems to

traditional on-farm observation methods, SenseHub

identified health issues an average of 1.7 days earlier.

This earlier detection allowed for timelier interventions,

reducing treatment duration and improving recovery

rates. Additionally, calves monitored with SenseHub

showed fewer setbacks in growth and development,

leading to better long-term performance. While farm

staff and veterinarians are critical in disease management,

the study highlights how integrating precision technology

enhances health monitoring, reduces economic losses, and

ultimately improves the efficiency of youngstock management in

modern dairy operations.

Conclusion

SenseHub plays a pivotal role in the selection and management of

replacement heifers. By providing farmers with actionable insights into the

health and performance of their animals, these technologies enhance early

disease detection, data-driven decision making, and overall economic viability.

As the dairy industry continues to evolve, adopting such innovations will be

key to ensuring sustainable and profitable dairy operations.

For more information on SenseHub contact:

Christo Brink:

Technical Manager for SenseHub Technology Solutions

christo.brink@msd.com / 064 739 4834

References

1. Nor, N.M., Steeneveld, W., Mourits, M.C.M. and Hogeveen, H., 2015. The optimal number of heifer

calves to be reared as dairy replacements. Journal of dairy science, 98(2), pp.861-871.

2. Palczynski, L.J., Bleach, E.C., Brennan, M.L. and Robinson, P.A., 2022. Youngstock management as “The

key for everything”? Perceived value of calves and the role of calf performance monitoring and advice on

dairy farms. Frontiers in Animal Science, 3, p.835317.

3. Buczinski, S., Achard, D. and Timsit, E., 2021. Effects of calfhood respiratory disease on health and

performance of dairy cattle: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Dairy Science, 104(7),

pp.8214-8227.

4. Aghakeshmiri, F., et al., Effects of neonatal diarrhea and other conditions on subsequent productive and

reproductive performance of heifer calves. Veterinary research communications, 2017. 41: p. 107-112.

5. Tejero, C.e.a., Comparative use of Automated Behavior Monitoring System versus on-Farm Standard

Operation Procedure for youngstock health in a commercial dairy farm, M.A. Health, Editor. 2022.


BOOSTING

DAIRY CATTLE IMMUNITY

NATURALLY

with ORGANIC SELENIUM

by Janika Pretorius

In modern dairy farming,

maintaining the health and

productivity of cattle is a

cornerstone of success.

Dairy cows face numerous health

challenges, including mastitis,

reproductive disorders, and respiratory

infections, all of which can significantly impact

milk yield and overall herd performance.

These issues highlight the importance of

a robust immune system in sustaining high

productivity and minimising economic losses.

Among the tools available to enhance

immunity, the use of organic selenium

has emerged as an effective, efficient,

sustainable approach.

Selenium: Essential for health,

yet delicate to manage

Selenium is a micronutrient with macro-sized

effects on animal health. This trace mineral

is critical for various physiological functions,

including immune support, reproduction, and

antioxidant defence. It serves as a cofactor for

enzymes like glutathione peroxidase, which

neutralise harmful reactive oxygen species

(ROS) and protect cellular integrity.

Decreasing natural selenium levels in soils

are increasing the risk of deficiency, which can

lead to various health problems in livestock.

Without sufficient selenium, dairy cows are

more susceptible to oxidative stress, reduced

immunity, and degenerative conditions. For

example, young calves may develop white

muscle disease characterised by muscle

myopathy, and dairy cows often experience

reproductive challenges like retained

placentas and impaired oestrous cycles.



Thus, supplementing selenium is not

merely beneficial but necessary to

maintain herd health. However, it must

be managed with care, because it has a dual

nature. While selenium is essential for health,

excessive supplementation, particularly with

inorganic forms such as sodium selenite,

can lead to toxicity. This makes the choice of

selenium form critical for achieving optimal

health outcomes.

Organic versus inorganic selenium:

Why form matters

The form of selenium used in

supplementation greatly influences its

efficacy and safety. Inorganic forms, like

sodium selenite, are less stable and have

higher toxicity risks compared to organic

forms such as selenium-enriched yeast.

Studies show that organic selenium is not

only safer but also more effective at improving

health outcomes in dairy cattle.

1. Superior bioavailability

and stability

Organic selenium has significantly higher

bioavailability than inorganic forms, meaning

it is more easily absorbed and utilised by

the animal’s body. Studies have shown that

selenium yeast supplementation in dairy

cows results in higher blood selenium levels

compared to sodium selenite, highlighting

its superior absorption and utilisation. This

enhanced absorption ensures that more

selenium reaches the tissues, where it

supports critical functions such as antioxidant

defence and immune response. It also means

that emissions of excess minerals, which can

harm the environment, are minimised.

Additionally, organic selenium is

more stable, with a longer shelf life and

better retention in premixes compared

to inorganic forms. Selenium yeast can

maintain its effectiveness in feed for up to

12 months, ensuring consistent delivery of

nutritional benefits.

2. Reducing somatic cell counts

and mastitis

One of the most significant benefits of

organic selenium is its proven ability to

reduce the risk of mastitis, a common and

costly issue in dairy herds. For instance, by

lowering somatic cell counts, selenium yeast

helps enhance udder health and milk quality,

directly impacting herd productivity and

profitability.

The somatic cell count (SCC) in milk

serves as a key indicator of udder health, with

elevated SCC levels signifying inflammation

or infection, often due to mastitis.

A study comparing the effects of selenium

yeast and sodium selenite supplementation

found that cows receiving selenium yeast

had significantly lower SCC levels. By 12

weeks postpartum, cows receiving selenium

yeast supplementation had the lowest SCC

levels at 134 000 cells/mL, significantly lower

than the 215 000 cells/mL observed in cows

supplemented with sodium selenite and the

231 000 cells/mL in the non-supplemented

control group. This reduction in SCC levels

highlights the clear advantages of selenium

yeast in improving udder health and milk

quality, ultimately lowering the economic

burden caused by mastitis.


The role of selenium in

dairy herd immunity

Selenium plays an important role in

strengthening the immune system by

improving how white blood cells work, helping

the body produce cytokines (messengers that

regulate immune responses), and reducing

oxidative stress that can harm cells.

In addition to these immune-boosting

effects, selenium plays a crucial role during

periods of heat stress. Heat stress increases

the production of ROS in the body, leading to

oxidative damage and suppressed immune

function. Selenium’s antioxidant properties

help mitigate these effects, reducing cellular

damage and maintaining immune resilience.

This helps to maintain productivity and health

during high-temperature periods, a challenge

increasingly faced by modern dairy farming.

Research during the summer heat stress

period has demonstrated that providing

selenium in the form of organic seleniumenriched

yeast improves outcomes compared

to inorganic forms. A study involving 289

dairy cows supplemented with selenium

yeast showed higher plasma selenium

levels and improved immune markers,

including increased immunoglobulin G

(IgG) concentrations. Additionally, uterine

health was markedly better, with cows

receiving selenium yeast showing lower rates

of purulent discharge compared to those

supplemented with sodium selenite. These

findings underscore selenium’s ability to

support immune and reproductive health

during heat stress, safeguarding both milk

production and herd well-being.

Practical considerations

for supplementation

Incorporating selenium into dairy nutrition

requires choosing organic forms for better

bioavailability, adhering to recommended

dosages to avoid toxicity or deficiency,

and combining selenium with synergistic

nutrients like vitamin E to enhance its effects.

Regular monitoring of blood selenium levels

and SCC in milk is also vital to ensure the

supplementation’s success.

The economic impact of

optimised selenium use

Optimising selenium supplementation offers

tangible economic benefits for dairy farmers.

Lower SCC levels translate to higher milk

quality and yield, while the reduced incidence

of mastitis minimises veterinary costs and

culling rates. For high-producing dairy

herds, these improvements can significantly

enhance profitability.

CONCLUSION

In the pursuit of healthier and more

productive dairy herds, organic selenium

stands out as a vital component of nutrition.

Its superior bioavailability, stability, and

safety make it an essential tool for boosting

immunity, improving udder health, and

enhancing overall productivity, and its

contributions to feed efficiency minimise

environmental damage. Investing in highquality

selenium sources is not just a

nutritional choice but a strategic decision for

long-term sustainability.



TO INCREASE

PROFITABILITY

by Japie van der Westhuizen

In dairy farming, profitability depends on a combination of factors

including herd health, milk production, milk quality, feed efficiency,

reproductive performance, market requirements, herd value, and

fixed and variable costs. The management of a dairy herd should,

therefore, always rely on a multi-disciplinary approach to curb

expenses, grow value, and to ensure proper cash flow.

Some dairy herds might focus on higher

production by favouring higherproducing

cows, aiming to minimise

assets per production unit (the producing

cows) and thereby reduce fixed costs per

litre of milk. When this approach is followed,

maintaining cow health and longevity

becomes essential to minimise inputs.

Conversely, other dairy herds opt for lower

nutritional input costs rather than high

production, mainly focusing on pastures to

utilise feeding sources optimally. Irrespective

of this choice, suitable and adapted cows

are still vital, but maybe with a focus on other

properties, such as walking and grazing ability

and environmental tolerance.

It is, thus, always important to look at the

profit drivers in the dairy herd. The source

used for this article is an ongoing long-time

service involving dairy farmers in the United

Kingdom. The Agriculture and Horticulture

Development Board (AHDB) has, over many

years, continuously engaged participating

dairy farmers in benchmarking the

profitability of their businesses. The recently

updated report, The Characteristics of Top-

Performing Dairy Farms in the UK – 2024

Update, provides valuable insights into these

profit drivers and practical ways to apply

benchmarking techniques. Although we

might argue the relevance for South African

dairy farmers, it gives extremely valuable

insights into the profit drivers and how to

apply benchmarking in a practical way.

The service is based on benchmarking

dairy farms and looking at the factors making

a difference to the bottom line. Like any

other business, the ratio of outputs to inputs

are to determine the long-term viability of

dairy farmers. Most of the comparisons rely

on comparing the more profitable farmers

(top 25%) with the so-called middle group

(middle 50%).


OUTPUT

Figure 1 indicates the differences in outputs (income in pence per litre) between the top 25%

and the middle 50% of the herds.

Comparison between top 25% and middle 50% dairy herds output (pence per litre)

Figure 1 Comparison in income per litre between the top 25% and middle 50% of the dairy herds featured in

the AHDB 2024 report

Figure 1 shows that the top 25% of the herds’ income outperformed the middle 50% by 0,9 pence

per litre of milk produced. These figures also include the changes in herd validations (both for

young stock and the dairy herd). If validation changes are excluded, the difference is 0,5 pence

(1,4%) per litre of milk produced. The top group not only outperforms the middle group with real

outputs, but also in adding value to the animals in the herds.

COSTS

Figure 2 shows the difference in variable costs per litre of milk produced between the top 25%

and middle 50% dairy herds.

Comparison between top 25% and middle 50% dairy herds variable costs (pence per litre)

Figure 2 Comparison in variable costs per litre of milk produced between the top 25% and middle 50% of the

dairy herds featured in the AHDB 2024 report (other livestock costs include expenses for artificial

insemination and breeding costs, bedding costs, and dairy, parlour and youngstock sundries)



The difference in variable costs per litre of milk between the top 25% and middle 50% herds is

1,4 pence per litre (8,8%), mainly due to the differences in feed and other livestock costs.

Similarly, the difference in overhead costs per litre produced between the two groups was

12,9 pence per litre versus 15,9 pence. The biggest differences were labour costs (4,2 versus

5,3 pence), power and machinery (3,7 versus 4,6 pence), machinery depreciation (0,7 versus

1,3 pence) and finance costs (0,7 versus 1,0 pence).

The final financial performances between the two groupings are shown in Figure 3.

Comparison between top 25% and middle 50% total production costs and margins

35

34,00

30

25

26,30

29,50

29,20

Pence per litre

20

15

10

5

0

-5

Cash cost of production

Top 25%

7,40

Cash net margin

Middle 50%

3,70

Indicators

Full economic cost of

production

Full economic net margin

Figure 3 Comparison of economic performance between the top 25% and middle 50% of the dairy herds

featured in the AHDB 2024 report

Figure 3 clearly shows the difference in economic performance between the two groups,

showing a net margin loss of nearly 1,0 pence for the middle 50% versus a net margin of 4,8

pence per litre for the top group of dairy herds. This is a cumulative reflection of the sometimes

fractional differences in outputs, variable and fixed costs between the two group averages, and

possibly reflects the extreme importance of meticulous record keeping and guarding against

not being aware of factors eroding biological and financial efficiencies.

The scatter graph, Figure 4, clearly shows a very strong relationship between the full economic

cost of production and the full economic net margin. The real difference in profit margins is,

therefore, strongly associated with costs per litre of milk produced. Although there might be

some tendency for the more profitable herds to be paid more for their milk produced, no clear

relationship exists, as can be seen from Figure 5.

4,80

-0,90

Figure 4 Full economic cost of production versus full economic net margin of the dairy herds featured in the

AHDB 2024 report (source: AHDB, Promar International and partners)


Figure 5 Milk price versus full economic net margin of the dairy herds featured in the AHDB 2024 report

(source: AHDB, Promar International and partners)

From these records, it is also imperative to work towards clear objectives to assist dairy farmers.

Figure 6 compares the top 25%, middle 50%, and bottom 25%, and benchmarks for full economic

costs of production, expressed as pence per litre of milk produced.

Full cost of production, benchmarks and full net margin (pence per litre)

top, middle and bottom herds

Figure 6 Comparison of the top 25%, middle 50%, and bottom 25% herds for full production costs and net

margins, together with the average full economic costs and recommended benchmarks (adopted

from the AHDB 2024 report)

Figure 6 also shows the close relationship between costs and profit in these dairy herds.

It indicates the variation in costs, even among the top 25% group, therefore allowing for

room to improve.

The next logical step to consider is to set more specific benchmarks in animal productivity

and costs involved with expected outputs. These key performance indicators (KPIs) can be

subdivided in ‘excellent performance’, ‘good performance’, and ‘average performance’, as

displayed in Table 1.



Table 1 Proposed KPIs for dairy herds

KPI

Excellent

performance

Good

performance

Average

performance

Pregnancy rate* (%) >25 20 14

Age at first calving (months)

Total purchased feed

costs (price per litre)

23

(but not less than 22)

24 27,5

8 000 L 7,0 7,5 8,0

10 000 L 7,8 8,5 9,0

12 000 L 8,0 8,5 9,5

Average daily lifetime yield (L/day) >19,0 14,5 12,5

Overheads (excluding rent and

finance) (price per litre)

9,0 10,0 12,5

Genetic merit (percentile) 5th 25th 50th

*Pregnancy rate is defined as dividing the number of cows that become pregnant by the total number of cows

eligible for breeding (those that are open and in heat) during a defined period. Adopted from the AHDB

2024 report.

It is evident from Table 1 that animal performance and genetic merit also play key roles in

achieving the proposed KPIs.

BIOLOGICAL properties

and GENETIC selection

Biological properties of importance include

most of the following:

» Early sexual maturity and heifer fertility.

» Continuous cow fertility.

» Milk production potential (in response to

different feeding regimes), both for quantity

and quality milk.

» Functional herd life (longevity).

» Functional physical appearance, especially

udder properties and traits usually defined

as ‘feet and legs’.

» Calving ease.

» Good immune response and resistance to

udder diseases.

Although genetic progress in dairy herds

is mainly dependant on bull selection, high

reproduction rates, combined with long

functional herd life, assist in effective female

selection in cow herds. These are also factors

contributing towards higher average lifetime

yields and better returns on the original

investment in raising heifers.

Irrespective of all these choices, there is

normally a group of cows in the herd that

often go unnoticed. They are sometimes

referred to as the ‘silent cows’. These are

the animals that will probably neither stand

out for their milk yield nor attract attention

due to being treated regularly for health

problems. These are the milk producers

playing an important role in maintaining herd

stability and ensuring long-term profitability.

Recognising the value of these silent cows

by using proper milk recording practices

can enhance their contribution to a dairy

farm’s success. Comparing the genetic

merit of these cows with that of the bulls

on offer should be a major consideration

for dairy farmers. Genetic benchmarking is,

therefore, also a key element. Knowledge of

the genetic merit (and potential) of the cow

herd is only possible if a herd is participating

in Logix Milk. Even more important, is the

comparison of the genetic merit of all bulls on

offer based on local figures, as is available on

SADairyBulls.com.


A CLOSER LOOK AT

ZOONOSIS:

A zoonosis is any disease or infection that is

naturally transmissible from vertebrate animals

to humans. There are over 200 known types of

zoonoses, which comprise a large percentage

of new and existing diseases in humans. Some

zoonoses, such as rabies, are 100% preventable

through vaccination and other methods.

A

zoonosis is an infectious disease

that has jumped from a non-human

animal to humans. Zoonotic pathogens

may be bacterial, viral, or parasitic, or may

involve unconventional agents and can

spread to humans through direct contact

or through food, water, or the environment.

They represent a major public health problem

around the world due to our close relationship

with animals in agriculture, as companions,

and in the natural environment. Zoonoses

can also cause disruptions in the production

and trade of animal products for food

and other uses.



Zoonoses comprise a large percentage of

all newly identified infectious diseases

as well as many existing ones. Some

diseases, such as HIV, begin as a zoonosis but

later mutate into human-only strains. Other

zoonoses, such as Ebola virus disease and

salmonellosis, can cause recurring disease

outbreaks. Still others, such as the novel

coronavirus that causes COVID-19, have the

potential to cause global pandemics.

Prevention and control

Prevention methods for zoonotic diseases

differ for each pathogen; however, several

practices are recognised as effective in

reducing risk at community and personal

levels. Safe and appropriate guidelines for

animal care in the agricultural sector help to

reduce the potential for foodborne zoonotic

disease outbreaks through foods such as

meat, eggs, dairy, or even some vegetables.

Standards for clean drinking water and waste

removal, as well as protections for surface

water in the natural environment, are also

important and effective. Education campaigns

to promote handwashing after contact with

animals and other behavioural adjustments

can reduce community spread of zoonotic

diseases when they occur.

Antimicrobial resistance is a complicating

factor in the control and prevention of

zoonoses. The use of antibiotics in animals

raised for food is widespread and increases

the potential for drug-resistant strains of

zoonotic pathogens capable of spreading

quickly in animal and human populations.

Who is at risk?

Zoonotic pathogens can spread to humans

through any contact point with domestic,

agricultural, or wild animals. Markets selling

the meat or by-products of wild animals

are particularly high risk because of the

large number of new or undocumented

pathogens known to exist in some wild animal

populations. Agricultural workers in areas with

a high use of antibiotics for farm animals may

be at increased risk of pathogens resistant

to current antimicrobial drugs. People living

adjacent to wilderness areas or in semi-urban

areas with higher numbers of wild animals

are at risk of disease from animals such as

rats, foxes, or raccoons. Urbanisation and the

destruction of natural habitats expand the risk

of zoonotic diseases by increasing contact

between humans and wild animals.




WHO response

The World Health Organization (WHO)

works with national governments, academia,

non-governmental and philanthropic

organisations, and regional and international

partners to prevent and manage zoonotic

threats and their public health, social, and

economic impacts. These efforts include

fostering cross-sectoral collaboration at the

human-animal-environment interface among

the different relevant sectors at regional,

national, and international levels. The

organisation also works to develop capacity

and promote practical, evidence-based

and cost-effective tools and mechanisms

for zoonoses prevention, surveillance, and

detection through reporting, epidemiological

and laboratory investigation, risk assessment

and control, and assisting countries in

their implementation.

As part of the One Health approach, WHO

collaborates with the Food and Agriculture

Organization of the United Nations and the

World Organisation for Animal Health on the

Global Early Warning System for Major Animal

Diseases. This joint system builds on the

added value of combining and coordinating

alert mechanisms of the three agencies to

assist in early warning, prevention, and control

of animal disease threats, including zoonoses,

through data sharing and risk assessment.

In part 2 of this series, we will focus on

zoonotic diseases that impact the dairy

industry, with a specific emphasis on the

H5N1 bird flu virus creating havoc in the

United States’ dairy industry.


LABOUR

COLUMN

by HANNES LATSKY

REQUESTING

PROOF OF

ILLNESS

It is almost a certainty that at some stage an

employee will become ill or be unable to attend

work due to a medical condition or procedure. In

some instances, an employee may be unfit to work

for days, and in other instances, such as a major

surgery, the employee might be off for weeks.

THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK

Sectoral Determination no. 13 as amended

(SD13), was gazetted under the Basic

Conditions of Employment Act (75 of 1997)

as amended (known as the BCEA), and

regulates the basic conditions of employment

for farmworkers in the agricultural sector in

South Africa.

An employee is required by labour law

to submit a medical certificate in respect

of absence from work under certain

circumstances. The primary legal foundation

comes from SD13 Clause 22, which regulates

sick leave. Clause 22 (6) – (8) reads as follows:

(6) An employer is not required to pay the

farmworker in terms of this clause if the

farmworker has been absent from work

for more than two consecutive days or

on more than two occasions during an

eight-week period and, on request by the

employer, does not produce a medical

certificate stating that the farmworker was

unable to work for the duration’s absence

on account of sickness or injury.



(7) Within the scope of their professional

expertise, a medical certificate in terms

of sub-clause (6) may be provided by –

(a) a medical practitioner;

(b) a clinic nurse practitioner;

(c) a traditional healer;

(d) a community health worker;

(e) a psychologist;

(f) any other person who is certified to

diagnose and treat patients and who is

registered with a professional council

established by an Act of Parliament; or

(g) any other health professional

authorised to diagnose

medical conditions.

(8) If it is not reasonably practicable for a

farmworker who lives on the employer’s

premises to obtain a medical certificate,

the employer may not withhold payment

in terms of sub-clause (1) unless the

employer provides reasonable assistance

to the farm worker to obtain the certificate.

It is therefore imperative for employers to

request that employees must submit a valid

medical certificate if they are absent from

work for more than two consecutive days

or on more than two occasions during an

eight-week period.

It is also clear that the employer is entitled

to request the employee to provide a

medical certificate. If the employee fails to

provide one, the employer is not obligated

to remunerate the employee in respect of

their absence from work (no work, no pay),

unless the farmworker lives on the employer’s

premises. If the farmworker lives on the

employer’s premises and it is not reasonably

practicable for the employee to obtain a

medical certificate, the employer may not

withhold payment unless the employer

provides reasonable assistance to the

employee to obtain the certificate.

An employee is only entitled to paid sick

leave when they are unable to work due to

a medical condition. The employer is not

expected to remunerate an employee for time

off to visit the clinic to obtain medication, or in

cases of regular clinic or doctor visits.

Employers should take care to implement

sick leave policies and workplace rules that

are in line with legislation, so that further

counselling and disciplinary steps can be

taken against employees who fail to hand

in a valid medical certificate in terms of

the employer’s disciplinary codes and

workplaces policies.

This article is intended as general

information and applies to employers

and employees who fall under the

scope of SD13. To ensure that you, as

an employer, are aware of the correct

provisions applicable to your sector,

contact the LWO on 086 110 1828.


FINANCIAL

COLUMN

by ANDRIES WIESE

FARMING

LIKE A

WOKE

POET

William Butler Yeats, the 1923 Nobel prize winning poet wrote,

“Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.” In a world where being

‘woke’ is either your ticket to fame and fortune or the end of life as you

know it, words like ‘stewardship’, ‘welfare’, and ‘animal welfare’ become

dangerous and heavily loaded terms. You, the reader, may interpret these

terms and ascribe to them meanings I had no intention of addressing.

Yeats used this in a different context, but it remains relevant when we talk

about stewardship and welfare.

As custodians of our farms and

businesses, stewardship (Cambridge

Dictionary) is “an ethical value that

embodies the responsible planning and

management of resources.” It is the job

of protecting and being responsible for

something. This perfectly describes the

farmer of today. We need to progress, grow,

and become more effective and innovative

with the limited and finite resources at

our disposal. If anything, we are seeing a

reduction in some of the resources we once

considered constants. Weather patterns

have changed, and water has become a

very scarce commodity. Yet stewardship

is ingrained, and farmers continue to

responsibly plan and manage our resources.

There is a very real drive to protect, grow, and

retain our farms for future generations. The old

adage of looking after our parents’ farms for

our children is as true today as ever.



Welfare and animal welfare are a bit

trickier in this instance because we

often conflate two terms as though

they mean the same thing. Animal welfare and

animal rights are not the same thing!

Animal welfare was perhaps best

summarised by Francis Brambell, an

Irish medical scientist, in 1965 as being:

1. Freedom from thirst and hunger.

2. Freedom from discomfort by

providing adequate shelter.

3. Freedom from disease, pain, or injury.

4. Freedom from distress and fear.

5. Freedom to engage in

natural behaviours.

So, where does this leave us as dairy

farmers? The world has evolved and changed

since Brambell’s 1965 summary. This is 2025.

The recent Africa Agri Tech Conference

and Expo, held at the CSIR in Pretoria,

highlighted the fact that our world is markedly

different from what it was even five or ten

years ago. Technological advances and

the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) are

progressing in leaps and bounds. We can

do incredibly clever things, and genetics,

data, management, and information have

all evolved exponentially. Business leaders

are advised to move away from yesterday’s

solutions and embrace “future-forward

strategies”. I am afraid that if you let AI run

your farming operation, it could go terribly

wrong very quickly. It was, therefore, great

to hear the experts also say that effective

AI solutions must be low-risk, costeffective,

and beneficial. If it is not solving

or improving something, it is useless and

should not be done.

Every farmer has a unique set of

circumstances that need to be addressed,

and there cannot be a single solution for

everyone. Whether we are talking about

financing or feed rations, we do need new

models that speak to the special needs and

circumstances of agriculture. Regulatory

frameworks also have to evolve alongside

technological advancement.

Future strategist John Sanei confronted

the audience with the idea of trying to

solve future problems with old solutions

and then not understanding why it did not

work – stupidity being repeating behaviour

and expecting different outcomes. Professor

Nick Binedell from the Gordon Institute of

Business Science rightly urged the audience

to regain confidence in the future and take

responsibility for shaping that future.

Dear reader, this also means we have to

reassess how we look after what we have and

how we manage the welfare of our animals

and the people we are responsible for.


The nitty gritty often lies in the numbers.

Sometimes I think the ‘woke ones’ never

have to balance a budget or deal with

financial realities and risk. Stewardship also

means using the tools that are available to

safeguard my property. You are not going to

call everyone in the vicinity to each bring a

bucket and milk a cow if you have a perfectly

functioning turntable. If you understand the

risks you are exposed to, it becomes obvious

to look for ways and means of mitigating

those same risks.

This is what a good broker and insurer

should bring to the table. Much like AI, if it

does not add value or improve the status

quo, get rid of it and find another solution or

solution provider. Financial institutions must

deserve their place at the table. Interrogate

your banker, broker, and insurer as to what it

is they contribute to giving you the edge. If

it is just more of the same, then you should

ask yourself whether retaining them is

stewardship or stupidity.

Another great example of stupidity

happened a few days ago at one of the large

shopping malls in our town. A brand new,

expensive German sports utility vehicle

parked in a spot clearly marked and reserved

for people with wheelchairs and disabled

individuals. When this was brought to the

attention of the driver, he thanked me for

the information and happily walked into the

centre. I was tempted to tell him that stupidity

was not a disability, but I did not.

Animal welfare is not something we should

keep quiet about. You and I know that it

would be stupid for any farmer not to treat

and manage their animals optimally. By not

doing so, you are literally killing the goose

that lays the golden eggs. Be careful of old

habits and review your animal husbandry

practices; maybe they can be tweaked to

deliver a better outcome for both you and

the animals. The world has moved on. Do not

be stupid and stay behind.

I have no wish to be woke, and my children

will tell you I am quite good at not being, but

please, “Tread softly because you tread on

my dreams.” Stewardship and animal welfare

is not about being woke; they are about

common sense. Unfortunately, it seems that

is not as common as people would think.


NAVORSING EN OPLEIDING • RESEARCH AND TRAINING

UPDATE ON FMD

FMD outbreaks

linked to auction

in KwaZulu-Natal

Press release issued by the Ministry of Agriculture

Positive cases of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) have been

detected in the Newcastle and Bergville areas of KwaZulu-

Natal (KZN). During the traceback epidemiological

investigation, the cases were linked to an auction that took

place in February 2025 in the Utrecht area of KZN.

Records of all animals present at the

auction on that day were obtained, and

trace-forward exercises are currently

underway. These include clinical examinations

of animals on recipient farms to detect signs

of FMD, as well as the collection of blood

samples to determine prior exposure or

vaccination.

On one farm in Mpumalanga, cattle tested

positive for FMD antibodies. Although these

animals are not showing any clinical signs

of the disease, the farm has been placed

under quarantine and further investigations

are ongoing.

Caution to buyers and sellers

of livestock

Livestock owners across the country are

reminded of the FMD incubation period,

which ranges from 2 to 14 days. During this

time, animals may appear clinically healthy

before showing any visible signs typically

associated with FMD. This highlights the

critical importance of separating newly

acquired animals from the resident herd for at

least 28 days, even if a health attestation has

been issued for the animals. Both the health

attestation and the 28-day separation have

been legal requirements since October 2022.


NATIONAL BIOSECURITY and

movement controls

Control measures introduced in

October 2022 remain in effect:

• Movement of cloven-hoofed livestock

across South Africa requires a health

declaration from the owner.

• Newly introduced cattle, sheep, or goats

must be isolated from resident herds for

at least 28 days.

Farmers are strongly advised to limit animal

movements and exercise caution when

procuring animals. Section 11 of the Animal

Diseases Act (35 of 1984) imposes a legal duty

on any owner or manager of animals to take

all reasonable steps to prevent their animals

from becoming infected with any disease

and to prevent the spread of any disease

from their animals or land to other animals or

other properties.

Essential biosecurity measures include

limiting and/or postponing the introduction of

new animals if possible and, if necessary, only

introducing animals from known clean farms

with a health declaration, preventing noseto-nose

contact of farm animals with animals

outside the farm, maintaining secure farm

boundaries, and restricting access for people

and vehicles as much as possible.

REPORT

suspicious symptoms

Foot-and-mouth disease is a controlled

animal disease in terms of the Animal Diseases

Act (35 of 1984). Any suspicious clinical

symptoms (salivation, blisters in the mouth,

limping or hoof lesions) must be reported

to the local state veterinarian immediately

and such animals must not be moved under

any circumstances. The Act prescribes

certain control measures, like isolation and

movement control, that are being enforced by

South Africa's state veterinary services.

For further inquiries, please contact

the Ministry of Agriculture:

Ms Joylene van Wyk spokesperson

for the Ministry of Agriculture on

+27 63 298 5661 JoyleneV@nda.agric.za

or

Ms Sara-Lea van Eeden spokesperson

on FMD for the Ministry of Agriculture

on +27 83 446 6109


NAVORSING EN OPLEIDING • RESEARCH AND TRAINING

RESEARCH

COLUMN

by DR HEINZ H. MEISSNER

WASTE

MILK

as a

FEED for

CALVES

Waste milk may be colostrum and

milk derived from cows undergoing

treatment for several ailments,

including clinical mastitis, or foot and

reproductive diseases. Additionally, waste

milk may have elevated somatic cell count,

rendering it unsuitable for commercial use.

Yet despite this adversity, the use of waste

milk in suckling programmes is a common

practice worldwide, as producers perceive it

as an economical feed alternative that can

effectively replace calf nutrition derived from

bulk tank milk or milk replacer.

From their standpoint, this approach

mitigates the need for specific waste

treatment systems that could otherwise be

required to manage microbial contamination

and safely dispose of drug residues in the

environment. However, despite its use as

a feed, concerns persist regarding the

impact of antibiotic residues on solid diet

nutrient digestion, while also highlighting

the susceptibility of bacterial phyla to

these residues.

The alterations have been shown to be

substantial enough to affect the development

of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the

rumen. Despite these observations, scientific

studies evaluating such effects remain limited.

Therefore, the objective of the cited study

was to assess the impact of using bulk tank

milk, waste milk, and pasteurised waste milk

on nutrient digestibility, ruminal and caecal

fermentation, organ development, and

antimicrobial resistance of faecal Escherichia

coli in dairy calves.


Calves in the experiment were grouped

according to body weight, serum protein

levels, and breed composition. Three

treatments were included: bulk tank milk

(BTM), waste milk (WM) from cows under

antibiotic treatment, and pasteurised waste

milk (PWM), with the latter subjected to hightemperature,

short-time pasteurisation. A total

of 63 calves were used in the study: 18 animals

(n = 6 per treatment) were evaluated from day

4 to 30, and 45 calves (n = 15 per treatment)

from day 4 to 60.

During the experimental period, calves

received 6 L of milk daily, divided into two

equal meals, with ad libitum access to

water and starter. Milk and feed intakes

were recorded daily. Apparent total-tract

digestibility and nitrogen balance were

assessed from days 25 to 29 and days 53 to

57, respectively. Calves were slaughtered

at 30 and 60 days of age for evaluation of

ruminal and caecal fermentation, as well as

gastrointestinal development.

Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was

conducted at 1, 30, and 60 days of age (n = 15

per treatment). For statistical analysis, a linear

mixed-effects model was used for continuous

outcomes, while a generalised linear model

was applied to single measurements.

The WM and PWM treatments resulted

in lower rumen pH, higher ruminal acetate

concentrations, larger reticulorumen and liver

sizes, and a greater prevalence of faecalresistant

E. coli compared with the BTM

treatment at both 30 and 60 days of age. Up

to 60 days, BTM and WM treatments showed

higher digestibility of ether extract and gross

energy than PWM, while WM and PWM

treatments demonstrated increased nitrogen

intake and retention compared with BTM.

In conclusion, the results indicate that

pasteurising waste milk negatively affects

nutrient digestibility in calves, potentially

compromising their performance. The

observed changes in ruminal fermentation

patterns suggest a potential effect on rumen

development. Additionally, the use of waste

milk for calf feeding may contribute to the

gradual selection of resistant faecal E. coli in

the gastrointestinal tract, posing a risk to the

effectiveness of disease treatments within

the herd. This highlights a critical concern in

efforts to limit antimicrobial resistance.

Reference:

Diniz Neto, H.C., Coelho, S.G., Campolina,

J.P., Vieira, S.F., Lombardi, M.C., Pereira, B.P.,

Albuquerque, B.S.F., Costa, S.F., Guimarães,

A.S., Brito, M.A.V.P., Silva, C.S., Machado,

F.S., Tomich, T.R. and Campos, M.M.

(2024). Effects of bulk tank milk, waste

milk, and pasteurized waste milk on the

nutrient utilization, gastrointestinal tract

development, and antimicrobial resistance

to Escherichia coli in pre-weaned dairy

calves. Journal of Dairy Science, [online]

107(9), pp.6852–6865. doi:https://doi.

org/10.3168/jds.2024-24674


SPAR PRIVATE LABEL

wins among SA’s best

dairy products at

the 2025 SA DAIRY

CHAMPIONSHIPS

VERWERKING • PROCESSING

The increasing prominence of private labels at

SPAR South Africa in a highly competitive market is

underscored by the organisation’s strong performance

at the 2025 SA Diary Championships that took place

on 8 April 2025. SPAR secured a prestigious Qualité

Award for the SPAR Double Cream Plain Yoghurt.

SPAR also won first place awards for their

Fat Free Plain Yoghurt, Double Cream

Plain Yoghurt, Low Fat Smooth Plain

Cottage Cheese and Fat Free Smooth Plain

Cottage Cheese. In addition to this, SPAR

collected a further 10 podium finishes.

Competing against more than 1 000

entries from manufacturers and retailers

nationwide, SPAR highlights that the SA

Dairy Championships – established in 1834

and now hosted by Agri-Expo – showcases

the evolution of the dairy industry and the

growing influence of private labels, 192

years later.

“Once seen as a budget alternative to

leading brands, in-house private label brands

have now earned their place alongside toptier

dairy brands,” says Judith Gale, head

of marketing for private labels at SPAR. The

SPAR private label products exemplify this

shift, demonstrating that private labels can

compete on an equal footing with longestablished

national and international brands.

With many South Africans facing financial

pressures, private label brands provide quality

options at accessible prices. “Our products

deliver exceptional value, offering quality

that matches the best at a more affordable

price,” says Gale. SPAR shoppers benefit from

competitive pricing, and a wider range of

choices tailored to evolving consumer needs.”

Quality is paramount, stresses Gale, with

SPAR suppliers being selected on their ability

to meet the exacting environmental and social

sustainability standards integral to SPAR’s

corporate principles.

“Our network of suppliers shares our

commitment to producing premium dairy

products in a responsible manner. Ethical

sourcing and agricultural operations prioritise

reducing waste, utilising renewable energy,

and animal welfare. Social well-being through

fair labour practices and support for local

communities is encouraged, as they are vital

components of the SPAR values.”

“We take immense pride in our private

label brands,” says Gale. “Our participation

in the 2025 championships reaffirms our

commitment to delivering high-quality

products that our customers can trust to be

among the best in the market.”


MOO-VING WHEELS

IT’S NOT

A BAKKIE,

IT'S A HILUX

There is no fan like a Hilux fan, and we know

there’s great anticipation surrounding the launch

of the Legend 55, set to happen in a month or

two. Toyota generally launches a special Legend

edition every five years, and while the Legend 55 is

technically a year late (the Legend 50 launched in

2019), it promises to be worth the wait.


MOO-VING WHEELS

A

couple of months ago, Toyota held its

annual State of the Motoring Industry

event, where it presented a list of all of

its cars to be launched in 2025.

The list included several impressive

options, from the facelifted GR Yaris to a

new Fortuner and multiple Lexus models,

but arguably the most significant reveal was

a new Hilux, which is expected to appear in

showrooms by the end of July.

Q: Why launch a new model Hilux in the

current generation if the new generation

model is planned to be released

later this year?

A: The new bakkie heading our way is the

Hilux Legend 55, which is likely to be one of, if

not the last special-edition unit for the current

generation before the next-gen model breaks

cover later this year. It’s hard to believe that

the Hilux we know has been around for 10

years at this point, which is why the carmaker

has elected to produce the new 55 as a last

hurrah for the country’s best-selling pickup.

have plenty of power to make use of the

other model-exclusive features Toyota has

confirmed. This includes a bespoke body

styling kit with a new sports bar, an underbody

bash plate, a rubberised load area, a roller

shutter, and a tow bar.

Q: Can we look forward to any luxuries

and creature comforts in the interior?

A: Given its special-edition status, the 55

is sure to also feature a lot of the equipment

found on the range-topping Hilux, which

means buyers can likely expect keyless entry

and start, leather upholstery, a multifunction

leather steering wheel, automatic climate

control, an 8-inch infotainment screen with

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cruise

control, front and rear parking sensors, and a

360-degree camera system.

Toyota will only reveal the Legend 55’s price

tag closer to launch, but given what we know,

it’ll probably fall in the same ballpark as the

GR-Sport, so expect a sum hovering around

the R1-million mark when it goes on sale.

Q: What external features will

differentiate the Hilux Legend 55?

A: The 55 is the latest model to feature a

widebody design, similar to the GR-Sport III,

and is set to receive a number of exclusive

features and details that fans will appreciate.

Q: What will we find under the hood?

A: Toyota has not yet confirmed what

engine the 55 will receive, but given its status,

one can imagine that it’ll benefit from the

same 2.8 L turbocharged diesel block used by

the GR-Sport.

The Sport features an updated version of

the brand’s tried-and-trusted powertrain

with 165 kW and 550 Nm – 15 kW and 50 Nm

more than the standard version. This is paired

with a six-speed automatic gearbox, which

sends power to all four wheels. It also allows

the bakkie to tow up to 3 500 kg and carry a

load of 790 kg.

Even if the Legend doesn’t benefit from

the Gazoo Racing improvement, it will still


GLOBALELANDBOU,

PLAASLIK!

GLOBALAGRICULTURE,

LOCALLY!

13-16

Mei/May

2025

NAMPOPARK Bothaville

NAMPO

The Dairy Mail April 2025_digital

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