The Dairymail April 2026

Vol 33 • No 04 • APRIL 2026

R46,50 incl VAT • ISSN: 1561-4301

RENTMEESTERSKAP

en GOEIE WELSYN

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B THE DAIRYMAIL • APRIL 2026

SOOS ONS DIT SIEN • AS WE SEE IT

Suiwelboerdery in 2026 het geen tekort

aan uitdagings nie. Koste bly hoog,

verwagtinge neem toe en onsekerheid

het deel van die daaglikse besluitneming

geword. Internasionaal bly geopolitieke

spanning, insluitend die voortgesette

oorlog in Iran, ’n herinnering aan hoe broos

wêreldmarkte en insetvloei kan wees. Tog

begin daar plaaslik ’n duidelike patroon in die

bedryf sigbaar word: die plase wat die beste

aanpas, is dié wat gebou is op volgehoue

rentmeesterskap.

Nie die modewoordweergawe nie, maar

die praktiese toepassing wat elke dag in

bestuursbesluite weerspieël word.

Weidingvernuwing is ’n goeie voorbeeld.

Dit gaan nie meer daaroor om opbrengs

teen enige koste na te jaag nie. Produsente

hernu weiding met volhoubaarheid en

herstelvermoë in gedagte, met ’n fokus op

grondtoestand, worteldiepte en doeltreffende

beweiding. Voersekerheid begin nou by grond

wat aanhou presteer wanneer omstandighede

minder genadig raak.

Dieregesondheid vertel ’n soortgelyke

storie. Brucellose bly ’n beheerde siekte,

maar steek steeds kop uit waar toetsing,

inenting en biosekuriteit verslap. Die

les is eenvoudig: voorkoming is nie

onderhandelbaar nie. Die voortdurende

bek-en-klouseeruitbraak bevestig dit weer

eens. Selfs waar suiwelkuddes nie direk

geraak word nie, het bewegingsbeheer,

biosekuriteit en waaksaamheid onmiddellike

bestuurs- en kostegevolge. In hierdie

omgewing beskerm siektegereedheid nie

net kuddegesondheid nie, maar ook mense,

produksiekontinuïteit en marktoegang. Met

Wêreld Veeartsdag op 25 April is dit gepas

om die sentrale rol van veeartse in volhoubare

suiwelboerdery te erken.

Ook voortplanting word anders benader.

Vrugbaarheid word nie meer in isolasie

beoordeel nie, maar weerspieël voeding,

gemak, hantering en stresbestuur.

Volhoubaarheid, soos ons dit sien, het

beweeg van gesprek na toepassing.

Herlewingslandbou lewer tasbare

verbeterings op suiwelplase waar dit

met dissipline toegepas word – beter

grondstruktuur, verbeterde watergebruik en

diere wat beter aanpas by omgewingsdruk.

April bied ook geleentheid om

uitnemendheid te vier. Van die AgriExpo

Qualitétoekennings en Suiwelproduk

van die Jaar, tot bedryfsdeelname by die

Bloemskou, speel hierdie platforms ’n

belangrike rol. Dit herinner ons daaraan dat

kwaliteit en toewyding steeds die kern van die

sektor vorm.

Rentmeesterskap, in die praktyk,

verbind vandag voer, gesondheid, welsyn,

volhoubaarheid en finansiële uitkomste tot

één geïntegreerde stelsel. Die suiwelplase wat

bly presteer, is nie noodwendig die grootste

nie – maar dié wat die mees doelgerigte

besluite neem.

APRIL 2026 • THE DAIRYMAIL 1

2 THE DAIRYMAIL • APRIL 2026

Plastic containers for the industrial,

agricultural & food markets

FROM THE PUBLISHERS DESK

Attending the recent MPO Strategic

Planning Session once again

confirmed that the dairy industry

punches well above its weight. With fewer

than 900 commercial producers, South

Africa’s dairy sector generates an estimated

R80 – 90 billion across its full value chain

and contributes roughly 1,2 – 1,5% of national

GDP when processing and manufacturing

are included. By comparison, the grain sector

contributes a larger 1,8 – 2,2% of GDP but

does so with an estimated 25 000 – 30 000

producers, highlighting dairy’s exceptional

value density per farm.

..., lê suiwel se krag in sy

deurlopende produksie,

kapitaalintensiewe stelsels

en sterk skakels met

verwerking en verspreiding.

Hoewel graan ’n kernrol in voedselsekerheid

en landelike indiensneming speel,

lê suiwel se krag in sy deurlopende produksie,

kapitaalintensiewe stelsels en sterk skakels

met verwerking en verspreiding. In provinsies

soos KwaZulu Natal alleen ondersteun die

suiwelwaardeketting meer as honderdduisend

direkte en indirekte werksgeleenthede.

With the MPO setting a strong tone for

leadership and collaboration, the industry now

looks ahead to 1 July, when statutory levies

are expected to unlock priority projects worth

approximately R30 million – an important step

in strengthening the resilience and long term

sustainability of South African dairy.

Hierdie maand vier ons op 25 April 2026

Wêreldveeartsdag, en eer ons die veeartse

wie se kundigheid onontbeerlik is vir

dieregesondheid, produktiwiteit en die sukses

van die suiwelbedryf.

We also look forward to engaging with

colleagues at NAMPO and the SA Large

Herds Conference in May.

Jacques Basson

Publisher, The Dairymail


CONTENTS INHOUDSOPGAWE

8

43

1 Soos ons dit sien • As we see it

3 From the publisher’s desk

7 Meet the team • Suiwelkalender

BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

8 Strategiese kruisteling: Homestale se pad

na winsgewendheid en gehardheid

12 Brucellosis beyond borders: what Kenya

and Africa are telling South African

dairy farmers

16 Dairy economic indicators

22 Dairy digits

25 Rentmeesterskap en goeie welsyn

beteken beter produksie

30 Latest FMD update: what farmers need

to know

33 Kortliks • Briefly

VOER • FEED

38 Why renewal is a systems decision

PRODUKSIE • PRODUCTION

43 Impact of dairy cow welfare on

production lifetime and economic

sustainability of a dairy farm

47 Nutrition and health of the transition cow

– Part 1

RENTMEESTERSKAP • STEWARDSHIP

52 Regenerative agriculture and

stewardship success

BESTUUR • MANAGEMENT

57 Vakbondvloerverteenwoordigers in

die werksplek


INHOUD • CONTENTS

62

Produced by

Editorial contributions

Email: content@maxmediagroup.co.za

Advertising & rates

Email: sales@maxmediagroup.co.za

Ilse Liveris • Tel: 072 708 4401

Charlene Bam • Tel: 061 500 7991

60 Arbeidskolom

Fokus op jou mense: Hoe om die

brandstofkrisis op die melkplaas

te bestuur

NAVORSING EN OPLEIDING •

RESEARCH AND TRAINING

62 A genetic approach to align your herd

with nature

VERWERKING • PROCESSING

66 More muscle, more milk value

Accounts & subscriptions

Email: charlene@maxmediagroup.co.za

Charlene Bam • Tel: 061 500 7991

On the cover / Op die voorblad

Our beautiful cover photograph was taken

by Murray Versfeld.

Taken at Crossways Farm Village, the

image shows dairy cows from Puttergill

Farming, relishing fresh green grass after

a crippling drought in the productive and

scenic heart of this farming community.

Expressions of opinion, claims and statements of supposed

facts do not necessarily reflect the views of The Dairymail,

editor, or publisher. While every effort is made to report

accurately, The Dairymail, 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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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

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

Lana Strydom lana@mpo.co.za 079 191 6985

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

Debbie Last 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

23 APRIL – 2 MAY 2026

Bloem Show

Showgrounds Curie

Avenue, Bloemfontein

31 MAY – 2 JUNE 2026

SA Large Herds

Conference

KwaZulu-Natal

12 – 15 MAY 2026

Grain SA NAMPO

NAMPO Park, Bothaville

3 – 5 JUNE 2026

Agbiz Congress

Gqeberha,

Boardwalk International

Convention Centre

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.

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.

6 – 8 AUGUSTUS 2026

KragDag – Selfstandigheid

Wegbreek Landbou Energie Ekspo

Diamantvallei

Landgoed, Rayton

PS. Remember to capture the essence of dairy farming

wherever you farm.

Mail your photographs and a short description to

content@maxmediagroup.co.za


LUISTER

na die volledige gesprek van die

Herkouers-podcast op YouTube.

STRATEGIESE

KRUISTELING:

Homestale se pad na

winsgewendheid en

gehardheid

Strategiese kruisteling wat winsgewendheid, gehardheid en

bestuursgemak kombineer, was die fokus van ’n onlangse episode

van die Herkouers-podcast. In die gesprek het Jacques Basson

met Wikus van der Merwe, bestuurder van Alta Genetics in

Suid-Afrika, gesels oor die suksesvolle toepassing van hierdie

benadering by Homestale. Van der Merwe werk reeds die

afgelope sewe jaar saam met Lexi Bramley om die volle potensiaal

van die Afrikaner- en Angus-rasse te ontsluit.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Gehardheid ontmoet kwaliteit

Die kern van Homestale se teelstrategie is

die gebruik van die Afrikaner as basisras. Van

der Merwe beklemtoon dat die Afrikaner se

gehardheid en uitsonderlike aanpasbaarheid

die grondslag vorm van volhoubare

beesboerdery in Suid-Afrika. Volgens hom het

rasse soos die Bonsmara hulle gehardheid juis

van die Afrikaner geërf, en nie van Europese

rasse soos die Hereford of Shorthorn nie.

Deur die Afrikaner met Angusgenetika

te kruis, word ’n funksionele “boerkoei”

geskep wat maklik bestuur kan word en sterk

produksie-eienskappe toon. “Jy kry dadelik

’n koei wat meer gehard is, maar ook groter

produksiepotensiaal het – regtig die beste

van albei wêrelde,” sê Van der Merwe.

Boerdery as ’n besigheid

Van der Merwe is uitgesproke oor die

noodsaaklikheid dat boerdery as ’n besigheid

benader moet word; gegrond op data, meting

en ingeligte besluitneming. Hy verwys na ’n

les wat hom vroeg in sy loopbaan bygebly het:

“Boerdery as ’n leefwyse is ’n baie swak

besigheid, maar boerdery as ’n besigheid kan

’n baie lekker leefwyse wees.”

By Homestale word hierdie filosofie

daagliks toegepas. Elke kalf word by geboorte

en speen geweeg, en koeie word ook by

speen geweeg om hul doeltreffendheid en

onderhoudsvermoë te bepaal. Hierdie data

word gebruik om objektiewe seleksiebesluite

te neem; watter koeie bly deel van die

teelkudde en watter diere na terminale

bulle geskuif word om winsgewendheid

verder te verhoog.


Praktiese voordele en

bestuursgemak

’n Belangrike praktiese voordeel van die

Angus-Afrikanerkruising is dat kalwers

natuurlik poenskop gebore word. Dit

verminder nie net arbeidsvereistes nie,

maar ook dierehanteringsstres, aangesien

onthorning nie nodig is nie.

Die fokus is verder sterk op die produksie

van hoëgehalte dierlike proteïen. “Die

Afrikaner lewer sagte vleis met goeie geur,

en die Angus het geen bekendstelling

nodig wanneer dit by vleiskwaliteit kom

nie,” verduidelik Van der Merwe. Hierdie

kombinasie het reeds uitstekende terugvoer

van voerkrale gelewer, met een voerkraal wat

Homestale se kalwers as “een van die mooiste

groepe van die seisoen” beskryf het.

’n Toekomsgerigte benadering

Met die oog op die toekoms beplan

Homestale om teen die einde van volgende

jaar uitgesoekte vroulike diere kommersieel

beskikbaar te stel. Die doel is om genetika

aan ander produsente te bied wat

winsgewendheid bevorder – koeie wat maklik

kalf, goeie moedereienskappe toon en gehard

is teen uitdagende produksie-omgewings.

Van der Merwe se raad aan medeboere is

eenvoudig maar kragtig: benut inligting en

tegnologie, insluitend genomiese toetsing,

om vinniger en beter besluite te neem. “Die

grootste beperkende faktor in beesboerdery

is die generasie-interval. Hoe gouer jy oor

akkurate inligting beskik, hoe vinniger kan jy

sinvolle besluite neem.”

LUISTER

na die volledige gesprek van die

Herkouers-podcast op YouTube.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY


beyond borders:

what Kenya and Africa are telling

South African dairy farmers

Brucellosis is often discussed as a local veterinary

compliance issue, yet new African research shows

clearly that it is far more than that. A comprehensive

One Health analysis of brucellosis in Kenya, published

in early 2026, provides valuable lessons for dairy farmers

across the continent – including South Africa – about

why this disease persists, where risk concentrates and

what effective control really requires.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

The findings reinforce an uncomfortable

truth: brucellosis thrives where

systems fragment and dairy farming

sits squarely at the centre of that risk.

What the Kenyan data tells us

The Kenya study reviewed 55 years of

brucellosis research (1969 – 2024),

analysing data from humans, cattle, small

stock, camels and wildlife across multiple

production systems and regions. The results

confirm that brucellosis remains widespread,

under‐detected and unevenly managed,

particularly in pastoral and agropastoral

zones where livestock and human contact is

most intense.

Cattle showed a pooled seroprevalence

of almost 10%, placing them among the most

consequential domestic hosts in disease

maintenance. Humans exhibited similar

prevalence levels, underscoring the zoonotic

implications of poor livestock control.

Importantly, goats emerged as critical “bridge

species”, linking zones and hosts even when

their own prevalence appeared moderate.

For South African dairy farmers, the

message is immediate: intensive cattle

systems do not eliminate brucellosis risk –

they concentrate it.

Why this matters for

South African dairy

South Africa differs from Kenya in scale,

structure and regulation, but the drivers of

brucellosis persistence are strikingly similar:

» animal movement between regions and

production systems,

» mixed farming interfaces (cattle, sheep,

goats, wildlife),

» uneven compliance with vaccination

and testing,

» gaps between animal health, human health

and farm management.

The Kenyan analysis shows that even

after decades of surveillance, over half of

potential host‐region combinations remain

unstudied, allowing disease to circulate

quietly beneath official reporting thresholds.

That mirrors South Africa’s own experience,

where provincial outbreaks often emerge

suddenly after long silent periods.

For dairy herds, where replacement heifers,

shared grazing boundaries and contract

heifer‐rearing are common, this creates a

persistent vulnerability.


Brucellosis is not just a

cattle disease

A key insight from the Kenyan study is the

interconnectedness of species. While

cattle carry the largest production risk,

goats and sheep play a disproportionate

role in connecting geographical zones and

facilitating spill‐over, especially where fencing,

biosecurity and movement records are weak.

This matters in South Africa, where:

» dairies increasingly operate alongside beef

and small‐stock enterprises,

» goats are kept for weed control or

diversification,

» wildlife–livestock interfaces are common.

From a dairy perspective, this reinforces

that biosecurity cannot stop at the milk

parlour gate.

Diagnostic lessons with

dairy relevance

The study also highlights an important

technical point: direct diagnostic methods

(PCR and culture) were far more likely

to detect active infection than indirect

serological tests, particularly when applied

strategically.

However, the authors caution that serological

testing remains essential for large‐scale

surveillance due to cost and accessibility

constraints. The practical lesson for South

African dairy operations is balance:

» use routine serology for

herd‐level monitoring,

» combine it with targeted PCR or culture

where abortions, infertility or repeated

positives occur.

Relying on one tool alone risks either

missing active infection or over‐interpreting

historic exposure.

The One Health warning

Perhaps the strongest message from the

Kenyan analysis is that brucellosis cannot

be controlled in isolation. Human health

data, livestock systems and environmental

interfaces must be considered together.

Humans showed the highest cumulative

seroprevalence across networks, reinforcing

how farm workers, veterinarians and families

remain part of the disease cycle.

For dairy farmers, this elevates the

importance of:

» strict milk‐handling and

pasteurisation practices,

» PPE during calving and abortion events,

» training staff to recognise and report risks.

In a sector already under pressure from

consumer scrutiny and market standards, a

zoonotic outbreak is a reputational risk – not

just a health one.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

What South African dairy

farmers can take from this

While South Africa has more formal disease

control structures than many African

countries, the Kenyan lessons remain

highly relevant:

» Vaccination is essential but insufficient

without movement control and records.

» Replacement animals are a major risk

point, regardless of source reputation.

» Mixed‐species systems multiply

exposure pathways.

» Silent circulation is more dangerous than

visible outbreaks.

The Kenyan researchers conclude that

sustained investment, probability‐based

surveillance and disciplined One Health

implementation are the only path to reducing

disease presence over time. That conclusion

applies just as strongly to South African

dairies operating under increasing biological,

financial and reputational pressure.

A disease that

rewards discipline

Brucellosis remains a disease of management

gaps rather than medicine gaps. The

African evidence is clear: where systems

are consistent, integrated and enforced,

disease pressure drops. Where they fragment,

brucellosis persists quietly until it forces

costly intervention.

For South African dairy farmers, the

Kenyan experience serves as a reminder

that biosecurity, vaccination, testing and

record‐keeping are not administrative

burdens – they are strategic defences.

In a connected continent, no dairy

operation farms in isolation.

This article draws on research by

Dr Martin Wainaina and colleagues

from the German Federal Institute for

Risk Assessment and the International

Livestock Research Institute (ILRI),

published in One Health (2026).

Source: Wainaina M. et al. Epidemiology of

human and animal brucellosis in Kenya:

A One Health meta‐regression and

network analysis.


DAIRY ECONOMIC INDICATORS

MONITORING

DAIRY RETAIL PRICES

by Jade Smith, MPO economist

MPO Economic Desk:

Guided by science, rooted in knowledge

The MPO has compiled the following figures to illustrate average retail prices

for dairy products from 2023 through March 2026. Overall, value positioning

remained consistent, with certain brands maintaining clear price advantages

while higher-priced brands continued to trade at elevated price levels.

(Source: BMI as supplied by Agri Inspec).


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

R40,00

R39,00

R38,00

R37,00

R36,00

R35,00

R34,00

R33,00

R32,00

Figure 1: Clover 2L fresh full cream milk prices

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

2026 R35,63 R35,50 R36,44

2023 R37,23 R34,91 R35,85 R34,80 R35,92 R37,53 R36,92 R36,45 R35,95 R35,18 R36,12 R36,13

2024 R36,57 R36,35 R38,26 R36,69 R38,17 R39,14 R37,77 R38,57 R37,53 R36,08 R36,37 R36,59

2025 R35,99 R36,67 R36,19 R35,05 R35,17 R36,24 R36,50 R36,44 R36,33 R35,57 R35,93 R36,07

Ј From February to March, Clover recorded the largest price increase among all brands,

rising by R0,94.

Ј On average, the price of a 2L Clover fresh milk in the first three months of 2026 was 0,4%, 3,2%

and 1,2% lower compared to the same period in 2023, 2024 and 2025, respectively.

Ј In 2024, a 2L Clover fresh milk was approximately R1,80 more expensive than other brands.

However, a shift has since occurred: throughout 2025 and into 2026, prices have realigned with

2023 levels, with the exception of January 2023.

R38,00

R37,00

R36,00

R35,00

R34,00

R33,00

R32,00

R31,00

R30,00

R29,00

Figure 2: Douglasdale 2L fresh full cream milk prices


2026 R36,09 R36,99 R36,40

2023 R31,82 R32,90 R34,08 R33,59 R34,74 R36,59 R33,10 R32,99 R35,99 R35,19 R35,09 R34,74

2024 R35,29 R36,09 R35,69 R34,70 R34,79 R35,62 R35,49 R36,37 R36,28 R36,74 R34,49 R36,99

2025 R35,37 R34,99 R35,99 R35,32 R36,32 R36,74 R37,10 R34,87 R35,66 R36,43 R36,99 R35,21

Ј Douglasdale was the only brand to record a price increase from January to February. Although

its price declined from February to March – the only brand to do so – it remained broadly in line

with Clover’s price level.

Ј On average, over the first three months, Douglasdale was R1,59 more expensive than the

department’s own brand.

Ј Among all brands, Douglasdale showed the greatest price volatility when comparing the first

three months from 2023 to 2026, with a total movement of R5,17 for a 2L fresh milk.


Figure 3: Department’s Own Brand 2L fresh full cream milk prices

R38,00

R37,00

R36,00

R35,00

R34,00

R33,00

R32,00

R31,00

R30,00

R29,00


2026 R35,21 R34,40 R35,10

2023 R32,09 R33,74 R34,49 R34,37 R35,53 R34,46 R35,89 R35,95 R35,95 R36,22 R34,89 R35,07

2024 R35,06 R35,26 R34,86 R36,67 R37,34 R36,68 R36,63 R35,16 R36,34 R35,85 R34,96 R34,99

2025 R35,38 R35,09 R33,87 R34,73 R34,68 R34,93 R34,71 R35,89 R35,11 R35,33 R34,99 R34,05

Ј Although the price increased from February to March 2026, the department’s own brand (DOB)

remained the most affordable option in March compared to all other brands.

Ј From January to March 2026, prices fluctuated; however, each month remained priced lower

than both Clover and Douglasdale.

Dewfresh and Darling were excluded from the main analysis due to price data only being

available from 2025. However, in a comparative view against Clover, Douglasdale and DOB,

Darling was the most affordable brand (R34,35), while Dewfresh was the most expensive

(R36,77) on average for the first three months of 2026.

R22,00

R21,00

R20,00

R19,00

R18,00

R17,00

R16,00

Figure 4: Clover 1L ultra heat temperature (UHT) milk prices


2026 R20,83 R20,85 R20,94

2023 R18,83 R19,05 R19,25 R19,58 R20,81 R20,91 R21,05 R21,10 R20,93 R20,37 R20,60 R20,45

2024 R20,38 R20,37 R21,07 R19,57 R21,15 R21,30 R21,41 R21,29 R21,13 R20,85 R20,61 R21,49

2025 R20,86 R20,66 R20,48 R20,40 R20,52 R20,76 R20,85 R20,82 R20,91 R20,71 R19,49 R20,88

Ј From January to March 2026, the price increased slightly by 11 cents.

Ј For the first three months of 2026, the price of 1L UHT Clover milk remained broadly in line with

2024 and 2025 levels.

Ј In March 2026, Clover was R0,78 cheaper than Parmalat and R3,09 more expensive than

Crystal Valley.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

R24,00

R23,00

R22,00

R21,00

R20,00

R19,00

R18,00

R17,00

R16,00

Figure 5: Parmalat 1L UHT milk prices


2026 R21,75 R21,90 R21,66

2023 R18,89 R19,72 R19,82 R20,29 R20,18 R20,75 R20,41 R20,96 R21,18 R21,42 R21,25 R21,28

2024 R21,16 R21,72 R22,23 R22,40 R22,44 R22,62 R22,93 R22,69 R22,02 R21,96 R21,96 R22,19

2025 R21,88 R21,88 R21,16 R21,39 R21,44 R21,50 R21,61 R21,63 R21,77 R21,79 R21,39 R21,74

Ј For the first three months of 2026, prices remained broadly aligned with 2025 levels.

Ј In March 2026, the price of 1L Parmalat UHT milk was 9,3% and 2,4% higher compared to the

same period in 2023 and 2025, respectively, while it was 2,6% lower compared to the same

period in 2024. From March 2024 onwards, prices remained above both 2023 and 2025 levels

for the remainder of the year.

Ј Overall, Parmalat was the most expensive brand compared to Clover and Crystal Valley.

R19,00

Figure 6: Crystal Valley 1L UHT milk prices

R18,00

R17,00

R16,00

R15,00


2026 R17,84 R17,76 R17,85

2023 R16,32 R16,35 R16,85 R16,58 R16,49 R16,98 R17,05 R17,21 R17,14 R17,06 R17,18 R17,04

2024 R16,97 R17,11 R17,48 R17,40 R17,33 R18,18 R18,33 R18,55 R18,80 R18,59 R18,41 R18,59

2025 R18,17 R18,33 R18,15 R17,83 R17,77 R17,78 R17,55 R17,73 R17,84 R17,99 R18,06 R17,10

Ј For the first three months of 2026, prices remained relatively stable compared to the same

period in 2023, 2024 and 2025.

Ј Crystal Valley is by far the cheapest brand. In March 2026, it was R3,09 and R3,81 cheaper than

Clover and Parmalat, respectively.

Ј On average, for the first three months of 2026, prices remained 2,20% below the 2025 price level.

Overview of UHT milk: Crystal Valley consistently remained the most affordable brand, while

Parmalat was the most expensive and Clover positioned in the mid-range between the two.


R180,00

R170,00

R160,00

R150,00

R140,00

R130,00

R120,00

R110,00

R100,00

Figure 7: Lancewood cheddar cheese price/kg


2026 R144,29 R151,41 R147,82

2023 R137,95 R150,76 R151,99 R154,99 R150,98 R144,15 R149,72 R156,66 R153,20 R150,90 R155,99 R159,55

2024 R154,99 R153,99 R152,32 R169,37 R168,80 R160,60 R163,70 R154,90 R155,40 R138,78 R164,44 R164,99

2025 R167,41 R165,81 R162,66 R155,37 R152,11 R159,68 R157,99 R159,99 R150,60 R144,32 R141,34 R153,49

Ј On average, for the first three months of 2026, Lancewood cheddar cheese (price/kg) was the

cheapest brand compared to Parmalat (9,4%), Elite (3,6%) and Clover (2,2%).

Ј In March 2026, the price declined by 2,4% compared to February.

Ј For the first three months of 2026, Lancewood cheddar cheese (price/kg) remained below the

price levels of both 2024 and 2025.

R180,00

R170,00

R160,00

R150,00

R140,00

R130,00

R120,00

R110,00

R100,00

Figure 8: Parmalat cheddar cheese price/kg


2026 R162,18 R164,43 R162,76

2023 R135,31 R143,08 R141,12 R148,05 R145,64 R152,60 R150,77 R153,77 R152,51 R151,92 R151,08 R153,42

2024 R153,10 R154,98 R155,98 R154,68 R161,27 R156,68 R161,60 R157,51 R162,46 R161,50 R160,46 R156,63

2025 R163,83 R162,94 R165,53 R164,02 R168,80 R162,49 R162,54 R164,85 R161,66 R164,77 R156,20 R165,85

Ј Similar price trends were observed in the first three months of 2025 and 2026.

Ј Parmalat cheddar cheese (price/kg) was the most expensive option. In March 2026, a price

difference of R14,94 was recorded between Parmalat and Lancewood cheddar.

Ј On average, for the first three months of 2026, Parmalat recorded the greatest price volatility.

Compared to the same period in 2023 and 2024, prices fluctuated by R23,29 and R8,44,

respectively.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Figure 9: Elite cheddar cheese price/kg

R170,00

R160,00

R150,00

R140,00

R130,00

R120,00

R110,00

R100,00


2026 R149,99 R154,99 R154,99

2023 R133,91 R131,42 R127,42 R125,77 R127,16 R139,13 R133,84 R138,30 R136,24 R140,13 R136,66 R136,66

2024 R144,28 R149,16 R142,13 R151,65 R138,32 R138,99 R139,99 R156,66 R139,99 R149,99 R148,32 R148,99

2025 R149,99 R159,99 R156,66 R159,99 R159,99 R159,99 R159,99 R162,49 R139,99 R154,99 R154,99 R154,99

Ј In January 2026, Elite cheddar cheese (price/kg) increased by R5,00 to R154,99/kg and

remained unchanged in March 2026.

Ј In March 2026, Elite cheddar cheese (price/kg) was R7,77 and R0,21 cheaper than Parmalat

and Clover, respectively, while being R7,17 more expensive than Lancewood cheddar over the

same period.

Ј On average, the price per kilogram was R2,22 lower for the first three months of 2026 compared

to the same period in 2025.

R170,00

R160,00

R150,00

R140,00

R130,00

R120,00

R110,00

R100,00

Figure 10: Clover cheddar cheese price/kg


2026 R154,32 R144,08 R155,20

2023 R125,57 R128,96 R121,14 R123,05 R130,05 R134,41 R133,49 R135,16 R135,92 R137,88 R135,76 R135,90

2024 R136,99 R137,29 R142,14 R147,55 R141,32 R135,66 R136,99 R144,28 R137,62 R146,89 R149,08 R161,28

2025 R146,29 R150,24 R143,49 R144,27 R137,49 R151,66 R161,37 R152,90 R155,76 R153,49 R153,63 R153,17

Ј Both January and March 2026 recorded higher price levels compared to the same period in

previous years.

Ј Despite these higher prices, Clover was, on average, the second cheapest cheddar cheese in

the first three months of 2026, after Lancewood, at R151,20/kg.

Ј Clover was the only brand to record a price increase from February to March 2026, with an

upward movement of R11,12.

For more information on retail prices, contact JADE SMITH, economist at the

MPO at jade@mpo.co.za


DAIRY

DIGITS

MARCH 2026

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) 2024 1 3 458 +3,56%

Unprocessed milk purchased (’000 tonnes) 2025 1 3 484 +0,75%

Unprocessed milk purchased (’000 tonnes) estimate Feb 26 1 242 −4,62%

Unprocessed milk purchased (’000 tonnes) estimate Jan–Feb 26 1 534 −2,58%

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

Dairy imports (’000 tonnes) 2025 2 30,8 −9,2%

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

Dairy exports (’000 tonnes) 2025 2 69,1 +29,1%

Dairy exports inclusive of sales to other SACU countries (’000 tonnes) 5 2025 2 208 +9%

Producer price index of unprocessed milk (base Dec 23 = 100) 3 Feb 26 3 98,6 +1,9%

Producer price index of dairy products (base Dec 23 = 100) 3 Feb 26 3 106 +1,3%

Farm requisite price index (base 2015 = 100) 4 Jul 25 4 129,9 +1,01%

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 2016–Feb 2026

Rand per t

170 000

150 000

130 000

110 000

90 000

70 000

50 000

30 000

Source:

USDA price surveys,

exchange rate South

African Reserve Bank

middle rates, last

month – average of

daily closing values.

Butter

SMP

Cheddar

FMP

10 000

Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19 Jan-20 Jan-21 Jan-22 Jan-23 Jan-24 Jan-25 Jan-26

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


Figure 2 Monthly unprocessed milk purchase trends, Jan 2022–Feb 2026

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


2026*

2022

2023

2024

2025

* Last two months

preliminary: sample survey

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

200

150

Source:

MPO calculation

from SARS data

supplied by

SAMPRO.

1 000 t milk equivalent

100

50

0

-50

-100

-150

-200


2025

2021

2022

2023

2024

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

cheese and eggs, Jan 2014–Feb 2026

230

210

Source:

Stats SA PPI and

CPI information,

statssa.gov.za.

Unprocessed milk

PPI

Index (2012 = 100)

190

170

150

130

110

90

Jan-14 Jan-15 Jan-16 Jan-17 Jan-18 Jan-19 Jan-20 Jan-21 Jan-22 Jan-23 Jan-24 Jan-25 Jan-26

Unprocessed

milk PPI

Milk, other dairy

products & eggs,

CPI

Milk, cheese

and eggs CPI

Dairy products PPI

Dairy products

(full cream PPI (full fresh cream milk,

full cream fresh UHT milk, milk, full

Cheddar cream cheese, UHT milk, yoghurt

cheddar cheese,

and ice cream)

yoghurt & ice

cream

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.


•

•

•

•

•

•


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Rentmeesterskap en

goeie welsyn beteken

BETER PRODUKSIE

deur The Dairymail redaksie

In die suiwelbedryf het die gesprek oor dierewelsyn

verander. Dit gaan nie meer net oor reëls, inspeksies

of wat die verbruiker wil hoor nie. Koeigerief word

toenemend erken as ’n direkte bestuursfaktor wat

produksie, vrugbaarheid en winsgewendheid beïnvloed.

Die Internasionale Suiwelfederasie

(IDF) bevestig wat meeste ervare

boere reeds weet: koeie wat gemaklik

is, presteer beter, hou langer en kos

minder om te bestuur. Vir Suid‐Afrikaanse

en Afrika‐boere, wat met klimaatdruk,

hoë insetkoste en markdruk werk, is dit ’n

belangrike boodskap.

Rentmeesterskap wys in

daaglikse besluite

Die IDF beskryf rentmeesterskap as

verantwoordelike bestuur wat dierewelsyn,

die omgewing, voedselveiligheid én die

langtermyn volhoubaarheid van die plaas in

ag neem. In praktyk beteken dit dat koeigerief

nie ’n “bykomstigheid” is nie, dit is deel van

die produksiesisteem.


Dit wys in eenvoudige dinge:

» hoe vol die krale of stalle is,

» hoe glad of nat die loopoppervlaktes raak,

» of koeie genoeg plek het om te gaan lê,

» hoe goed hulle hitte hanteer,

» en of hulle rustig kan vreet en herkou.

Plase wat hierdie basiese beginsels

onder die knie het, sukkel

gewoonlik minder met:

» swak vrugbaarheid,

» hoë uitskotvlakke,

» lamheid,

» mastitis,

» en metaboliese siektes.

Koeigerief lê aan die basis

van goeie produksie

Volgens die IDF – en elke boer se ervaring –

doen gemaklike koeie die volgende beter:

» hulle vreet meer konsekwent,

» hulle herkou beter,

» hulle lê langer,

» hulle ervaar minder stres,

» en hulle sit voer

doeltreffender om in melk.

Prakties beteken dit jy moet fokus op:

» genoeg ruimte by voerbakke,

» goeie, nie‐gly loopoppervlaktes,

» droë, gemaklike lêplekke,

» skoon en volop water,

» en effektiewe beskerming teen hitte.

Dit is nie luukses nie, dit is kern‐insette.

In Suid‐Afrikaanse toestande raak

hittebestuur al hoe belangriker. Skadu,

ventilasie en waterbeskikbaarheid bepaal of

koeie hul vreetlus en melkproduksie gaan

behou wanneer temperature styg.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Gerief help koeie langer hou

Die IDF wys sterk daarop dat koeigerief direk

bydra tot ’n langer leeftyd in die kudde.

Koeie wat minder fisiese stres ervaar, leef

eenvoudig langer.

Dit maak sin want:

» vervanging is duur,

» jongdiere gebruik baie hulpbronne,

» ’n koei moet eers haar grootmaakkoste

terug verdien voordat sy regtig wins maak.

Elke ekstra laktasie is dus goed vir die sak

en die koei.

Die oorgangskoei sê alles

Een van die belangrikste praktykboodskappe

van IDF handel oor die oorgangstydperk – net

voor en ná kalwing. Dit is die stadium waar die

meeste probleme begin of voorkom kan word.

As ’n koei in hierdie tyd:

» te min lê,

» te veel druk ervaar,

» oorvol kampe moet deel,

» of hitte nie kan hanteer nie,

verhoog dit die risiko van melkkoors, ketose,

uterusprobleme en swak vrugbaarheid later.

Goeie rentmeesterskap hier beteken jy

beplan vooruit – jy verlaag stres voordat

siektes opduik, in plaas daarvan om later

skade te beheer.


Afrikatoestande,

dieselfde beginsels

Hoewel die IDF se riglyne wêreldwyd geld, is

dit juis ontwerp om aanpasbaar te wees. Of

jy nou ’n moderne stalsisteem, ’n weidingsof

’n gemengde stelsel bedryf, bly die

beginsels dieselfde:

» koeie moet genoeg lêtyd hê,

» hulle moet konstant kan vreet en drink,

» en hulle moet teen onnodige stres

beskerm word.

Om dit by jou plaas se omstandighede aan te

pas, is goeie bestuur – nie afwyking nie.

Welsyn bou vertroue

Die IDF erken ook dat dierewelsyn toenemend

gekoppel word aan openbare vertroue in

suiwel. Mense wil weet hul melk kom van plase

waar daar goed na diere omgesien word.

En dit wys maklik in:

» skoon koeie,

» goeie beweging,

» rustige hantering,

» en die regte kondisie.

Vir Suid‐Afrikaanse produsente

in ’n mededingende en onder die

vergrootglas‐mark, maak dit saak.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

Koeigerief betaal terug

Die belangrikste van alles is om te besef dat

koeigerief nie net ’n koste is.

Op plase waar koeie gemaklik is:

» verbeter vrugbaarheid,

» veeartsenykoste daal,

» arbeid verloop gladder,

» en melkproduksie is meer konstant.

Dit is nie teorie nie – dit is wat boere

daagliks ervaar.

Gedeelde verantwoordelikheid

begin op plaasvlak

Die IDF beklemtoon dat rentmeesterskap ’n

gedeelde verantwoordelikheid is, maar dit

begin op die plaas. Selfs wanneer marges

onder druk is, moet koeigerief doelbewus

bestuur word.

Om hier kostes te sny kos gewoonlik

later baie meer.

Rentmeesterskap met ’n doel

Plase wat vandag volhou en volhoubaar

bestaan, is dié wat rentmeesterskap sien as

praktiese dissipline, nie as ’n filosofie nie. En in

daardie dissipline staan koeigerief sentraal.

Goeie versorging en goeie melkproduksie is

nie opponente nie. Dit is dieselfde ding.

Bronne: International Dairy Federation

(IDF) Promoting the welfare of dairy

animals; Milk SA Animal Health & Welfare;

Food and Agriculture Organization of the

United Nations (FAO) Animal welfare and

dairy production &; South African Journal

of Animal Science Heat stress in dairy

cows: with reference to the subtropics.


Latest

FMD

UPDATE:

what farmers

need to know

The Foot-and-Mouth Disease Industry

Coordination Committee (FMD ICC) released

its latest update on 27 March 2026. This update

explains what is happening now, what still needs

to be done and what farmers should be aware of.

Rules and regulations still

being finalised

One of the main focus areas is finalising parts

of the FMD regulations, known as Section 9

and Section 10. These sections deal with how

FMD is managed and controlled.

There are still some technical issues that

need to be sorted out before the final versions

can be sent to the Minister of Agriculture. The

aim is to have this done by 17 April 2026.

To speed things up, the FMD ICC will hold a

joint technical workshop with the Department

of Agriculture and the national task team.

All outstanding problems will be discussed

together so that decisions can be made and

everyone is aligned.


BEDRYF • INDUSTRY

More vaccines are on the way

Good progress is being made with vaccine

availability.

On 20 March 2026, Onderstepoort

Biological Products (OBP) was given

permission to import 1,5 million doses of

FMD vaccine from Biogénesis Bagó. The

preferred option is a vaccine that protects

against three strains of the virus (SAT 1, SAT

2 and SAT 3). If that is not possible, a vaccine

covering at least SAT 1 and SAT 2 will be used.

In addition, 6 million doses of the Dollvet

vaccine have been approved for import by

Dunevax. These will arrive in three batches of

two million doses each. The next shipment

is expected in the third week of April 2026.

Vaccination progress differs

between provinces

Vaccination progress is not the same

everywhere. According to information

gathered by AgriSA through provincial

meetings, some provinces are moving faster

than others.

Provinces such as KwaZulu‐Natal,

Gauteng and the Free State have

vaccinated large numbers of animals.

Other provinces are moving more slowly

because of limited vaccine supply and

logistical challenges.

Farmers are encouraged to stay in touch

with their provincial structures, as the

situation can change from week to week

depending on vaccine availability.

Farmers must stay alert and

report symptoms

The FMD ICC stresses that farmers play a

critical role in controlling the disease.

If you see any signs of FMD in your

animals, such as limping, sores in the mouth

or nose, or excessive drooling, report it

immediately. You can do this anonymously

by sending a WhatsApp message to

073 786 7363. Only the GPS coordinates

from the nearest road are needed.

Early reporting helps protect neighbouring

farms, communities and the wider

livestock industry.

Further updates will be shared regularly as

the national FMD response continues.

FMD Vaccine Rollout: Weekly update

2 500 000

2 000 000

2 296 037

26 March 2026

South Africa

Positive Cases

1 080

1 500 000

1 191 314

1 125 880

Animals vaccinated

Vaccines received

1 000 000

500 000

0

Vaccines received

Animals vaccinated

13 Mar ‘26

26 Mar ‘26

Cattle Herd Size

12 470 648

Bioaftogen

DollVet

OBP

TOTAL

VACCINES

RECEIVED

940 828

1 267 709

12 500

2 296 037

ANIMALS

VACCINATED (Dose 1)

387 276

207 858

3 298

1 125 880

National Emergency Stock

75 000

Animals vaccinated before 2026

494 640


“amazing experience”

ANT GALLIERS

& LOGAN SCOTT-BARNES

Big thanks to Waikato, Waikato KZN and Northfield for an amazing experience

through our parlour planning, build and start-up. You guys have been amazing

and we are truly grateful, thanks to everyone involved. Building the dairy has allowed us

to make great friends with our suppliers proving to be a really privileged experience.

This rotary has turned out better than originally thought and has helped us change

our approach in handling our cows and working with staff.

We are very happy with our choice.

Thank you

- Ant Galliers

Owner of Fairacres Dairy

His new 70 point rotary parlour

in Rosetta KZN


For more information contact

Louie Diedericks | m: 0823754033 | e: louie@waikatosa.co.za

Roxy O’Reilly m: 072 942 2755 | e: roxy@waikatosa.co.za

KORTLIKS | BRIEFLY

DAIRY INDUSTRY

SHOWS ITS METTLE

Record entries at the

SA Dairy Championships reflect

confidence and commitment

The South African dairy industry

demonstrated strong resilience

in the last week of March, with

record‐breaking participation at the 2026

South African Dairy Championships, hosted

by Agri‐Expo at Eensgezind near Durbanville.

This 193rd edition delivered a clean

sweep of new records, making it the largest

dairy judging in Africa’s history. A total of

1 227 dairy products from 81 producers

were evaluated by 130 judges, supported

by 20 industry partners – all the highest

numbers recorded in the competition to date.

Judging took place over three days, with

milk and ice cream assessed first, followed by

cheese and butter, where a record‐breaking

700 cheeses were entered. The programme

concluded with yoghurt and fermented

dairy products.


Despite continued pressure on the sector,

including challenges facing the broader

livestock industry, the strong turnout

highlighted producers’ ongoing commitment

to quality and innovation.

Winners will be announced at the

South African Dairy Awards on 23 April

at Nederburg Wine Estate in Paarl, where

SA Champions, Qualité Mark of Excellence

recipients and the Product of the Year

will be named.

For more information, visit

www.sadairychamps.co.za

Issued by Isabeau Media.

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


MetaSmart ®

Metasmart Dry V19417 | Metasmart Liquid V21846

Please contact Adisseo representative

Wilhelm Wolmarans I STSM Ruminants-Southern Africa

Mob : +27 (0) 727069400

Wilhelm.wolmarans@adisseo.com

Phillip Meiring

Ruminant Technical Sales Manager

Pr.Sci.Nat: 400037/17

Tel: +27 (0)82 329 9985

phillip.meiring@adisseo.com

A soft landing into the

new milking period

by Sarper Ozbek, DVM, PhD Global Ruminants Technical and

Scientific Support Manager, Adisseo

The most critical phase in the lactation

cycle of dairy cows is the transition

period, which involves metabolic,

hormonal and dietary changes as the cow

transitions from gestation to lactation. This

period significantly impacts milk production,

fertility and health of dairy cows, and

prepares the animal for lactation. A good

transition period can improve milk yield and

reproductive performance, reduce risk of

diseases like mastitis, metritis and lameness,

and prevent metabolic disorders such as

ketosis, fatty liver and milk fever.

Transition period management

through nutrition

During the transition period, dairy cows

experience multiple physiological challenges.

Some of the challenges associated with this

period include:

9

9

9

9

a negative energy balance (NEB),

calcium deficiency, which causes

hypocalcemia/milk fever,

immune dysfunction which increases

inflammation,

Rumen adaptation to high energy

diets that may lead to acidosis and

displaced abomasum.

Management practices on farms, such as

stocking density, feed bunk management,

bedding material and space, water quality

and space, milking parlor management for

fresh cows and transition period protocols

are all important for ensuring a smooth

transition from pregnancy to lactation.

However, one practice that can also help

cows to transition well is proper nutritional

management. Examples of some nutritional

management strategies include:

9

9

9

9

9

9

9

application of balanced energy diets to

avoid overly fat cows,

negative dietary cation-anion difference

(DCAD) to prevent milk fever,

gradual increases in fiber content and

type to adapt the postpartum diet slowly,

maximizing dry matter intake (DMI)

with high energy density diets and

palatable feed

feeding the cows with rumen

protected methionine

increasing calcium availability

optimizing dietary amino acid balancing

To have the best results from these

nutritional management strategies, it is

mandatory to apply health and performance

monitoring techniques such as body

condition score (BCS) check, blood tests

for non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), betahydroxybutyrate

(BHB), calcium levels,

liver functionality Index (LFI), cow behavior

and appetite.


Feeding Rumen Protected

Methionine in transition diets

It is well accepted that Rumen Protected

methionine (Met) plays a critical role during

the transition phase. Methionine is crucial

for the normal growth and development of

mammals and its well-known function for

its role in protein synthesis. It is also one

of the amino acids with several important

metabolic functions and its supplementation

during the transition period provides multiple

health benefits for dairy cows. Methionine

supplementation in dairy cows enhances

antioxidant status in prepartum dairy cows

by increasing plasma taurine and liver

glutathione, which are two key antioxidants

involved in reducing oxidative stresses.

Supporting liver function is key

Methionine has also been found to prevent

fatty liver disease by promoting fat export

via VLDL synthesis and reducing excessive fat

accumulation in the liver. It also can improve

insulin sensitivity and can help cows to use

glucose more efficiently and subsequently,

support milk protein synthesis, leading

to improved milk yield and composition.

Methionine supplementation downregulates

pro-inflammatory gene expression and helps

maintain gut integrity, preventing leaky

gut syndrome and systemic inflammation.

Methionine supplementation has been

associated with greater intakes, milk yields

and components (Zhou et al., 2016a, Osorio

et al., 2014b).

Methionine has a great impact

on the udder

Somatic cell count (SCC) was lower in

cows fed methionine rich prepartum diets

compared to controlled groups (Li et

al. 2016). Phagocytosis is a key function

of neutrophils that helps protect the host

from pathogens. Cows fed methionine

shows higher phagocytic activity. The

enhanced phagocytosis of methionine fed

cows can be explained by the fact that Met

supplementation may alleviate the negative

effects of high NEFA on neutrophil function.

Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) are

also crucial in the mammary gland during

mastitis, and impaired PMN function during

the transition period increases susceptibility

to mastitis (Paape et al., 2003). During

infection, bacteria release toxins that

trigger macrophages and epithelial cells in

the mammary gland to secrete cytokines,

recruiting PMN to act as phagocytes, killing

pathogens, at the infection site. Lower SCC

in cows fed Met may be also linked to higher

glutathione (antioxidant) concentrations that

prevent a severe inflammatory response.

Methionine supplementation

reduces the incidence of health

disorders and saves costs

Diseases during the transition phase are

costly and place a significant burden

on producers. Enriching the diet with

Methionine can lead to considerable

savings by improving cow health and

well-being. Methionine supplementation

reduces the incidence of health disorders.

These reductions in disease incidence with

methionine supplementation can result in

savings of over $80 (Adisseo Milk Smart

App) per cow per year, providing a significant

economic benefit for producers.

For more information, kindly contact your

Adisseo representative:

Phillip Meiring | 082 329 9985 or

Wilhelm Wolmarans | 072 706 9400


WHY RENEWAL

IS A SYSTEMS

DECISION

Grass, grazing and

profitability in 2026

by The Dairymail editorial team

For pasture‐based dairy farmers in 2026, pasture renewal

is no longer a routine agronomic exercise. Rising input

costs, increasing climate variability and tighter margins

have shifted the question from “How fast can this pasture

grow?” to “How long will it last and what will it cost me?”


VOER • FEED

Across South Africa, successful dairy

farmers are approaching pasture

renewal as a long‐term system reset

– rebuilding soil function, improving grazing

efficiency and restoring resilience, rather than

simply re‐establishing grass.

Encouragingly, both local and African

examples show that when pasture renewal

is well planned and properly managed, it

remains one of the strongest contributors to

farm profitability and resilience.

Why pasture renewal matters

more than ever

Many dairy pastures planted ten to twenty

years ago were designed around high inputs

and short‐term yield. Over time, this approach

has exposed weaknesses: compacted soils,

shallow root systems, declining pasture

persistence and poor tolerance to heat and

moisture stress.

In 2026, with fertiliser, feed and

energy costs remaining structurally high,

underperforming pastures place direct

pressure on margins. Pasture renewal

is therefore less about boosting peak

production and more about protecting

grazing days, feed quality and system stability.

Start with the soil, not the seed

One consistent lesson from successful

pasture renewal programmes is that seed

alone cannot fix a broken system. Renewal

that ignores soil condition rarely delivers

lasting results.

Soil testing remains essential to address

pH imbalances, compaction and nutrient

inefficiencies. Increasingly, farmers are also

focusing on biological recovery, recognising

that soil life plays a key role in water

infiltration, root development and nutrient

availability.

In the Tsitsikamma region, research

on irrigated dairy farms has shown that

minimum‐till pasture renewal combined with

organic inputs such as dairy effluent and

manure significantly improved soil carbon

levels and pasture performance over time

compared with conventional systems.

South African success: pasture

renewal with discipline

In Creighton, KwaZulu‐Natal, pasture‐based

dairy farmer Dale Hutton, the 2025 Toyota

SA Kwanalu Young Farmer of the Year,

has built a high‐performing dairy system

by linking pasture renewal directly to

grazing management and data‐driven

decision‐making.

Rather than renewing large areas at once,

Hutton follows a phased renewal strategy,

matching pasture establishment to feed

supply and seasonal conditions. By selecting

cultivars suited to local climate stress and

carefully managing post‐establishment

grazing, the farm has improved pasture

utilisation and milk production efficiency

while keeping feed costs in check.

The result has been a system that

consistently converts grass into

high‐quality milk, even under challenging

weather conditions.



VOER • FEED

Eastern and Western Cape:

renewal linked to

sustainability gains

Across the Eastern and Western Cape, dairy

farms participating in sustainability platforms

such as Trace & Save offer further proof that

pasture renewal pays beyond the first season.

A multi‐year study of pasture‐based dairy

farms found that producers who invested

in pasture quality, nutrient cycling and

soil organic matter achieved lower carbon

footprints and improved profitability over

time. These farms consistently renewed

pastures in phases, matched stocking rates

to pasture recovery and reduced reliance on

purchased feed.

For these producers, pasture renewal

became a lever to improve both economic

and environmental performance.

African perspective:

small improvements, big gains

Beyond South Africa, African dairy systems

also demonstrate the value of improving

pasture and forage quality.

Studies from East and West Africa show

that better grazing management, improved

fodder production and effective manure

use can double or even triple milk yields in

pasture‐reliant systems. While farm scale

and systems differ, the principle remains

universal: better forage underpins better milk

production and resilience.

What’s different about

pasture renewal in 2026?

» Cost control matters as much as

yield – persistence and utilisation

now outweigh short‐term growth.

» Climate resilience is

non‐negotiable – deeper roots

and soil organic matter matter

more than ever.

» Renewal is phased, not

all‐at‐once – spreading risk

protects feed supply and cash flow.

» Soil health drives the decision –

renewal starts below ground.

» Grazing plans matter more

than seed mixes – management

determines success.

» Sustainability and carbon are

part of the conversation, even if

not directly monetised.


Rethinking pasture mixes

Pasture renewal in 2026 increasingly favours

diverse pasture mixes. While perennial

ryegrass remains a cornerstone of most dairy

systems, it is now commonly combined with

clovers and forage herbs such as chicory

and plantain.

These species improve nitrogen fixation,

enhance root depth and recovery and

contribute to pasture persistence under

stress. On Western Cape farms supplying

low‐carbon milk programmes, diverse

swards have supported strong milk‐solids

production while improving soil structure and

water‐holding capacity.

Grazing management

after renewal

How a pasture is grazed after establishment

often determines whether the renewal

investment succeeds or fails. Overgrazing

in the first season remains one of the most

common and costly mistakes.

Successful farmers apply:

» Short grazing periods

» Adequate recovery time

» Flexible stocking rates based on

growth conditions

This careful management encourages tillering,

deeper roots and longer pasture lifespan.

A long‐term investment in

farm resilience

Pasture renewal is not a silver bullet, but

when approached correctly, it strengthens

the entire dairy system – from soil health and

pasture persistence to cow performance and

cost control.

As pressures on the dairy sector continue

into 2026, investing in resilient, productive

pastures remains one of the most reliable

ways for producers to future‐proof

pasture‐based dairy farming.

Sources: Food For Mzansi; Trace & Save;

WWF South Africa; Milk SA; University of

the Free State; Nestlé South Africa; FAO.

Common pasture renewal

mistakes in 2026

» Fixing the pasture but

ignoring the soil

» Renewing too much land

in one season

» Chasing yield instead of utilisation

» Overgrazing new pastures too early

» Using outdated pasture mixes

under modern climate conditions

» Treating renewal as a once‐off

project rather than an

ongoing programme



IMPACT of DAIRY

COW WELFARE

on production lifetime and

economic sustainability of

a dairy farm

by Suretha Francis, SA Stud Book

Dairy cow welfare is a key determinant

on both biological efficiency and

economic viability in dairy farming

systems. Welfare encompasses

the physical health, comfort and

psychological well-being of cows and

it directly influences their productivity

and longevity. The production

lifetime of a dairy cow, defined as

the number of productive years or

lactations she remains in the herd –

is closely linked to welfare conditions.

In turn, production lifetime has

major implications for the economic

sustainability of a dairy farm. This

article examines how welfare

practices affect longevity and how it

translates into financial outcomes.

Production lifetime refers to the duration

a cow remains productive in the herd

before being culled. Ideally cows

should complete multiple lactations to

maximise lifetime milk yield. However, poor

welfare conditions often result in early culling,

limiting productivity.


Some of the key welfare

factors affecting longevity:

LAMENESS

Lameness, often caused by poor housing,

inadequate flooring or insufficient hoof care

is one of the leading causes of early culling.

Lame cows experience pain, reduced mobility

and decreased feed intake, leading to lower

production and reproductive performance.

Surfaces on which cows need to stay and

live are therefore always an important

consideration. Hard or slippery flooring

contributes significantly to lameness.

MASTITIS

Poor hygiene and improper milking practices

increase the risk of mastitis. Recurrent

infections reduce milk quality and yield and

frequently result in premature removal from

the herd. Clean and good environmental

conditions reduce exposure to pathogens

and lower the incidence of diseases such as

mastitis. The milking parlour is a critical point

of interaction between cows, humans and

machinery. The way cows are handled during

milking significantly affects their stress levels,

health and productivity. Calm and consistent

handling is essential for minimising stress.

Rough handling, loud noises, or unpredictable

behaviour can cause fear and anxiety in

cows, leading to reduced milk let down and

increased risk of injury. Positive humananimal

interactions improve ease of handling

and overall welfare. Efficient parlour design

ensures smooth cow movement with minimal

waiting time. Poor design can add to stress

and injuries. A consistent milking routine,

including proper udder preparation and

hygiene, is essential to preventing mastitis.

Failure to follow correct procedures can

result in infections, discomfort and long-term

health problems

REPRODUCTIVE FAILURE

Stress, poor nutrition and health disorders

negatively affect fertility. Cows that fail to

conceive within an acceptable timeframe are

often culled, shortening production life. In our

South African conditions, heat stress has a big

impact on feed intake, milk production and on

cow fertility. Good ventilation is necessary to

maintain air quality in housing and regulate

temperatures. Proper airflow, shade and

cooling systems help mitigate these effects

and improve overall welfare.

Feeding and nutritional welfare

Nutrition is a cornerstone of dairy cow welfare,

influencing health, reproduction and milk

production. A proper monitoring system

needs to be in place.

» Is a balanced ration fed for different stages

of lactation?

» How long does the negative energy

balance of the cows last and is

ketosis prevented?

» Are MUN, lactose and somatic cell

count levels monitored to evaluate the

ration, stress levels and infection levels

of the cows?

» Is heat detection monitoring in place and

» Are the AI technicians properly trained?



Metabolic Disorders

Dairy cows require a balanced diet that

provides adequate energy, protein, vitamins

and minerals. Nutritional imbalances can

lead to metabolic disorders such as ketosis,

acidosis and milk fever which negatively

impact health and productivity.

These disorders can have long-term

impacts on health and productivity,

contributing to early culling. How do you

monitor your nutritional management. Cows

should have sufficient access to feed to

prevent competition and ensure uniform

intake. Limited feeding space can result in

dominant cows consuming more feed while

subordinate cows receive less, leading to poor

body condition and stress.

High quality feed supports optimal

digestion and health. Contaminated or

spoiled feed can introduce toxins and reduce

intake, leading to illness, reproductive failure

and decreased productivity of the cows.

Some of the areas that also impact cow

welfare, is housing. Space allowance and

stall design is important. Adequate space

is essential for minimising competition and

allowing cows to lie down, standing as well as

for social interaction. Overstocking in camps

and housing leads to increased aggression/

competition, reduced resting time and

higher stress levels. Properly designed stalls

enable cows to lie down and rise comfortably,

reducing the risk of injuries and lameness.

Comfortable bedding encourages cows to lie

down for longer periods, which is crucial for

rumination and hoof health.

Economic sustainability refers to the ability

of a dairy farm to maintain profitability over

time while managing costs and resources

effectively. Welfare plays a central role in

achieving this goal.

1. Replacement costs: Frequent culling

due to poor welfare increases the need for

replacement heifers. Raising or purchasing

replacements is costly, involving feed,

housing, labour and healthcare expenses.

Extending the productive life of cows

reduces these costs and allows for stricter

selection on heifers and therefore genetic

improvement of the next generation.

2. Milk production efficiency: Healthy cows

produce more milk over their lifetime. Good

welfare ensures consistent production and

allows cows to reach higher yields in later

lactations, improving profitability.

3. Veterinary and treatment costs: Poor

welfare increases the incidence of disease,

leading to higher veterinary expenses.

Preventative measures, such as proper

housing and nutrition, are more cost

effective than treatment.

4. Reproductive efficiency: Good

welfare supports better reproductive

performance, reducing calving intervals

and increasing the number of productive

lactations per cow.

5. Labour efficiency: Well managed cows

are easier to handle and require less

intervention, reducing labour demands and

improving farm efficiency.


There is a strong relationship between

dairy cow welfare, production lifetime and

economic sustainability, i.e.:

» Improved welfare leads to better health

and reduced stress

» Better health increases longevity and

productivity

» Increased longevity improves

lifetime milk yield

» Higher productivity and lower cost

enhance farm profitability

Farms that prioritise welfare benefit from

reduced culling rates, improved efficiency

and greater long-term sustainability.

In conclusion

Dairy cow welfare is a critical factor

influencing both production lifetime and

the economic sustainability of dairy farming

systems. Proper housing, gentle handling

in the milking parlour and effective feeding

practices contribute to improved health,

reduced disease and enhanced productivity.

These factors collectively extend the

productive life of cows, reduce replacement

and vet costs and overall farm profitability

and allows for application of higher selection

intensities which will result in faster genetic

progress. Therefore, investing in dairy cow

welfare is not only an ethical responsibility

but also a strategic economic decision

that supports the resilience and success of

dairy farms.

250904-Sentratek-Dairy Mail Half Page - Udder Mark-FINAL.indd 1 2025/09/04 09:55



NUTRITION and

HEALTH of the

TRANSITION COW

PART 1

Why this six‐week window

determines the next lactation

by The Dairymail editorial team

Few periods on a dairy farm carry as

much risk – or opportunity – as the

transition period. Covering the three

weeks before calving and the three weeks

after, this short window has a disproportionate

influence on cow health, fertility, milk

production and ultimately profitability.

For South African dairy farmers operating

under cost pressure, climate stress and

rising expectations around animal welfare,

getting transition cow nutrition and health

right is no longer optional. It is one of the

most effective levers to improve performance

across the herd.


Why the transition

period matters

During transition, the cow moves from

a non‐lactating state to peak metabolic

demand almost overnight. Feed intake

typically declines before calving, yet nutrient

requirements increase sharply to support

foetal growth, colostrum production and the

onset of lactation.

If the cow fails to adapt smoothly, the

consequences are well known:

» milk fever,

» subclinical and clinical ketosis,

» displaced abomasum,

» retained placentas,

» metritis,

» suppressed fertility later in lactation.

What is less obvious is that many of these

conditions are nutritional in origin or made

worse by incorrect feeding and management

during this period.

Energy balance:

the core challenge

The central nutritional challenge of the

transition cow is negative energy balance.

After calving, energy demand rises faster than

dry‐matter intake, forcing the cow to mobilise

body reserves.

Excessive body‐fat mobilisation increases

the risk of fatty liver and ketosis and

compromises immune function. Thin cows, on

the other hand, lack the reserves needed to

cope with early‐lactation demand.

The goal is therefore not to eliminate

negative energy balance – which is unrealistic

– but to limit its severity and duration.

Practical implications include:

» avoiding over‐conditioning in late lactation

and the dry period,

» maintaining intakes as close to calving

as possible,

» introducing early‐lactation rations gradually

and consistently.



Body condition score sets

the baseline

Transition success starts long before the

dry cow camp.

Cows that calve with a body condition

score (BCS) between 3.0 and 3.5 are far

more likely to maintain intake and recover

after calving. Over‐fat cows experience

a sharper intake drop pre‐calving and

mobilise more fat post‐calving, increasing

metabolic risk.

Once the cow enters the calving pen,

it is already too late to “fix” condition.

BCS management belongs earlier in the

production cycle, but its effects are felt most

strongly during transition.

Fibre, fill and rumen adaptation

Dry cow rations often fail not because of what

they contain, but because of what they do to

intake behaviour.

Effective fibre is essential to maintain rumen

fill, rumination and saliva production, yet

excessive bulk can physically limit intake at

the very time cows need to consume more.

Successful transition diets strike a balance:

» sufficient physically effective fibre to

support rumen health,

» controlled energy density to prevent

over‐conditioning,

» gradual adaptation to higher concentrate

levels before calving.

Abrupt dietary changes at calving remain one

of the most common drivers of rumen upset

and intake suppression.

Minerals: small nutrients,

big consequences

Mineral nutrition during transition has

long‐lasting effects on cow health.

Calcium management remains central.

Failure to adapt calcium metabolism around

calving increases the risk of both clinical and

subclinical milk fever, which in turn raises the

likelihood of retained placentas, metritis and

reduced feed intake.

Equally important are:

» magnesium, which supports calcium

mobilisation,

» potassium and sodium balance, particularly

in dry cow diets,

» trace minerals such as selenium, zinc and

copper that support immune response and

tissue repair.

Mineral programmes need to align with local

forage analysis, water quality and feeding

system – generic formulations often miss

critical regional differences.


Immune function begins in

the feed trough

The transition cow experiences a natural

dip in immune competence around calving.

Nutritional stress worsens this effect,

leaving cows more vulnerable to uterine and

metabolic infections.

Adequate energy supply, balanced minerals

and consistent intake support immune

resilience. Feed bunk management therefore

becomes a health intervention:

» adequate feed space,

» fresh, palatable rations,

» minimal sorting,

» consistent feeding times.

Nutrition cannot compensate for

overcrowding, poor lying comfort or heat

stress – all of which suppress intake and

immune response.

Measuring success

Transition nutrition is often judged by the

absence of obvious disease, but this sets the

bar too low.

Better indicators include:

» stable dry‐matter intake pre‐ and

post‐calving,

» low incidence of subclinical ketosis,

» smooth increases in milk yield without

sharp body‐condition loss,

» improved reproductive performance later

in lactation.

These outcomes reflect a system that

supports adaptation rather than one that

reacts to failure.

Heat stress: the silent disruptor

In South African conditions, heat stress

increasingly overlaps with the transition

period. Dry and fresh cows under heat load

eat less, lie down less and experience greater

metabolic strain.

Transition cow nutrition must therefore be

considered alongside cow comfort:

» shade and ventilation reduce intake losses,

» clean water access supports

thermoregulation,

» reduced stocking density encourages

feed access.

Feed formulation alone cannot overcome

environmental stress, but it can worsen it if

intake is compromised.



Setting the stage for

management and comfort –

what comes next

Nutrition lays the metabolic foundation for a

successful transition, but it does not operate

in isolation. How – and where – the transition

cow is managed plays an equally decisive role

in determining whether nutritional strategies

succeed or fail.

Research consistently shows that cow

comfort during late gestation and early

lactation directly affects feed intake, immune

competence and metabolic stability.

Inadequate shelter, overcrowding, poor lying

comfort or heat stress suppress dry matter

intake at exactly the time when nutrient

demand escalates, amplifying negative

energy balance and increasing disease risk.

In South African systems, environmental

stressors frequently overlap with the transition

period. Rising temperatures, variable rainfall

and increased climate intensity place

additional pressure on dry and freshly

calved cows. Without appropriate shelter,

ventilation and resting space, even wellformulated

transition diets cannot deliver their

intended benefits.

Part 2 of this series will explore the

management dimension of the transition

period in more depth, with a focus on:

» cow and calf comfort in late gestation and

early lactation,

» housing and shelter design for dry,

close‐up and calving cows,

» strategies to mitigate heat stress and

social stress,

» and how management decisions interact

with nutrition to support intake, immunity

and performance.

Together, nutrition and management form

a single system. Optimising one without

addressing the other limits returns. Managing

transition cows successfully therefore means

creating an environment where cows can

express normal feeding, resting and calving

behaviour – and where nutritional investment

can translate into health, production

and longevity.

The transition cow does not simply eat

her way into the next lactation. She must be

managed into it.

Sources: Erasmus, L.M. & van Marle‐Köster,

E. (2025). Heat stress in dairy cows: a

review with reference to the subtropics.

South African Journal of Animal Science;

Penn State Extension. What does current

research tell us about transition cow

management?; University of Minnesota

Extension. Managing and monitoring the

health of transition dairy cows; IntechOpen.

Optimizing Transition Cow Management:

Current Strategies and Future Directions

(2024);The Dairyland Initiative (University

of Wisconsin). Transition Cow Housing and

Comfort Guidelines.


Regenerative

agriculture and

STEWARDSHIP

SUCCESS

From veld to value

How Danie Slabbert turned

regenerative grazing into resilience

Free State farmer Danie Slabbert, farming

near Reitz, believes that farming is not

something you do alone. At the centre

of his regenerative journey is not only a

belief in working with nature, but a strong

family structure that supports how the farm is

managed and how decisions are made.

Together with his wife Via Slabbert and

their five children, Danie runs a family farm

where everyone understands that healthy

land today means a viable farming business

tomorrow. The family name behind their meat

venture, Sewe Slabberts (“Seven Slabberts”),

reflects this hands‐on family involvement,

from production through to marketing and

customer relationships.



Farming for the next generation

Danie often says that his farming decisions

are guided by one question: will this land

still be productive for my children one day?

That thinking shaped his move away from

conventional practices towards regenerative

grazing more than 15 years ago.

By focusing on soil recovery, plant diversity

and long rest periods for veld, the Slabbert

family has seen significant improvements

in pasture resilience, water infiltration and

biodiversity. Their land now absorbs rainfall

far better than neighbouring farms, reducing

runoff and erosion while keeping grass

growing longer into dry periods.

For pasture‐based farmers, the lesson is

clear: good grazing management today

determines whether your children can still

graze cows or heifers here in future.

Simple principles,

applied consistently

On the Slabbert farm, animals are grazed

in high density for short periods and then

moved on, allowing pastures long recovery

times. This approach mimics how wild herds

once moved across the Riemland district, and

it has been key to restoring soil life and plant

root systems.

As Danie says, “If you keep coming back

too soon, you punish the plant. If you give it

time, it rewards you.”

For farmers running pasture systems, this

translates into:

» Healthier pastures with deeper roots

» Better dry‐matter production

over the season

» Less pressure to buy feed when the

weather turns


Sewe Slabberts:

adding value as a family

The Slabbert family’s regenerative journey

did not stop at grazing management. It

led to the creation of Sewe Slabberts, a

direct‐to‐consumer meat business built on

the same principles used on the farm.

All animals are raised on regeneratively

managed veld using ultra‐high density

grazing, without growth hormones, routine

antibiotics or synthetic inputs. Via and the

children play an active role in branding,

logistics and customer engagement, turning

farming practices into a marketable story

based on trust and transparency.

Danie explains it simply: “People want

food they can trust. If your family

stands behind how it’s produced, that

trust carries through.”



Why this matters for farmers

For pasture‐based producers, the Slabbert

family model shows that:

» Stewardship is a long‐term commitment

» Grazing systems must work for people,

not just cows

» Family involvement strengthens

accountability and continuity

» Strong farming values can become strong

market stories

While not every farm will sell direct to

consumers, the principle holds: how you farm

increasingly matters to processors, retailers

and the public.

A grounded message to

fellow farmers

Danie’s advice to other farmers remains

practical and grounded.

“Don’t farm for applause. Farm so your land

works better every year, so your family can

still make a living off it.”

For pasture‐based dairy farmers navigating

rising costs, climate pressure and succession

planning, the Slabbert family story is a

reminder that good grazing, good soil and

good family involvement go hand in hand.

Learn more about Danie Slabbert,

his family and the Sewe Slabberts

regenerative farming journey at

www.seweslabberts.co.za


ALGEHELE

MELKHIGIËNE

Ons verskaf skoonmaak-in-plek stelsels, deeglike

skoonmaak - middels, ontsmettingsmiddels

en spesialis oplossings vir:

• Massatenks • Melkmasjiene

• Vervaardigingsaanlegte

011 708 0209

info@bransonchemicals.co.za

www.bransonchemicals.co.za



VAKBOND-

VLOERVERTEEN-

WOORDIGERS

in die werksplek

deur Xander Levendal

Vakbondvloerverteenwoordigers (“shop stewards”) speel ’n

belangrike rol om goeie arbeidsverhoudinge in die werksplek

te bevorder. Hulle dien as ’n skakel tussen werknemers, die

vakbond en die werkgewer en help om werknemers se regte

te beskerm terwyl hulle terselfdertyd bydra tot effektiewe

kommunikasie en probleemoplossing in die werksplek.

Die rol en regte van vakbondvloerverteenwoordigers

word hoofsaaklik

gereguleer deur die Wet op

Arbeidsverhoudinge 66 van 1995, soos

gewysig. Hierdie wet maak voorsiening vir

hul verkiesing, erkenning, regte en funksies

binne die werksplek. ’n Verteenwoordigende

vakbond wat meerderheid verteenwoordiging

(50% plus een werknemer) in ’n

werksplek het, is geregtig daarop om ’n

vakbondvloerverteenwoordiger uit sy lede

wat werknemers van die betrokke werkgewer

is, te verkies indien daar minstens 10 lede

van die verteenwoordigende vakbond by die

werksplek in diens is.


Die aantal vakbondvloerverteenwoordigers

wat die vakbond op geregtig sal wees word

ook omskryf in wetgewing en hang af van die

verteenwoordigende vakbond se aantal lede

wat werksaam is in daardie werksplek.

Die interne prosedures vir die verkiesing

van hierdie vakbondvloerverteenwoordigers

word gewoonlik deur die vakbond self bepaal

en dit geskied gewoonlik op die perseel

van die werkgewer. Sodra ’n vakbond egter

aan die vereistes vir verteenwoordiging

voldoen, moet die werkgewer die verkose

verteenwoordigers erken. Hierdie stelsel

verseker dat werknemers ’n direkte stem in

die werksplek het en dat hul belange deur

aangewese vakbondvloerverteenwoordigers

bevorder kan word.

Die wet verleen sekere regte aan die

vakbondvloerverteenwoordigers wat hulle in

staat te stel om hul funksies doeltreffend uit

te voer. Dit sluit onder andere die reg in om

werknemers by te staan tydens dissiplinêre

verhore en grieweprosesse, om met die

werkgewer oor werkspleksake te konsulteer en

om te monitor of die werkgewer aan toepaslike

wetgewing en kollektiewe ooreenkomste

voldoen. Vakbondvloerverteenwoordigers

mag ook met vakbondlede kommunikeer oor

aangeleenthede wat die werksplek raak en

terugvoer gee oor onderhandelinge en ander

relevante sake. Verder is hulle geregtig op

redelike betaalde tyd af gedurende werksure

om hul funksies as verteenwoordigers te

verrig en om vakbondopleiding by te woon,

mits dit nie die werkgewer se operasionele

vereistes onredelik benadeel nie. Omrede

wetgewing nie bepaal wat ’n redelike tyd af is

nie, sal die werkgewer en betrokke vakbond

oor die tydperk moet onderhandel.

Alhoewel vakbondvloerverteenwoordigers

sekere regte geniet, het hulle ook belangrike

verantwoordelikhede. Hulle moet hul rol

op ’n professionele wyse uitvoer en die

belange van werknemers bevorder sonder

om die werksplek onnodig te ontwrig. Die

belangrikste verantwoordelikhede van

vakbondvloerverteenwoordigers sluit in om:

» die belange van vakbondlede in die

werksplek te verteenwoordig

» werknemers by te staan tydens

dissiplinêre verhore en grieweprosesse

» te help met die oplos van

werksplekgeskille

» kommunikasie tussen werknemers, die

vakbond en die werkgewer te bevorder

» toesig te hou oor die werkgewer se

nakoming van arbeidswetgewing en

kollektiewe ooreenkomste

» werknemers in te lig oor belangrike

werksplekontwikkelinge en

onderhandelinge



Vakbondvloerverteenwoordigers geniet

ook sekere beskerming ingevolge Suid-

Afrikaanse arbeidsreg. ’n Werkgewer mag nie

’n werknemer benadeel, teen diskrimineer of

viktimiseer bloot omdat daardie werknemer

as ’n vakbondvloerverteenwoordiger

optree of aan wettige vakbondaktiwiteite

deelneem nie. Indien dissiplinêre stappe

teen ’n vakbondvloerverteenwoordiger

geneem word, word daar dikwels noukeurig

gekyk of die optrede van die werkgewer

verband hou met die werknemer se

vakbondaktiwiteite. Alvorens ’n dissiplinêre

verhoor dus geskeduleer kan word vir ’n

vakbondvloerverteenwoordiger, moet die

werkgewer eerste met die betrokke vakbond

self konsulteer waar die misdryf en rede vir die

verhoor met die vakbond bespreek word.

Vakbondvloerverteenwoordigers speel

dus ’n noodsaaklike rol om gesonde

arbeidsverhoudinge te bevorder.

Deur werknemers te verteenwoordig,

kommunikasie te fasiliteer en nakoming

van wetgewing te monitor, dra hulle by

tot ’n meer gebalanseerde werksplek.

Wanneer beide werkgewers en

vakbondvloerverteenwoordigers hul

onderskeie rolle en verantwoordelikhede

verstaan, kan dit lei tot beter samewerking,

minder geskille en ’n meer stabiele

werksomgewing.

dairymail-landscape-feb2026p.indd 1 APRIL 2026 • THE 2026/02/23 DAIRYMAIL 15:19 59

ARBEIDS-

KOLOM

deur Ferdi Hartzenberg

OP JOU MENSE:

Hoe om die brandstofkrisis

op die melkplaas te bestuur

In die melkbedryf is diesel

die lewensbloed van alles –

van voer meng en melk tot

verkoeling en logistiek. Met

die brandstofbeperkings van

Maart 2026 en die massiewe

styging van meer as R7 per liter

in April 2026, is die druk op

almal groot.

Om hierdie krisis te oorleef, moet

leierskap verskuif van “nommers

bestuur” na “mense ondersteun”.

Hier is vyf praktiese maniere om jou span

deur die storm te stuur:

1. Praat reguit en gereeld

(deursigtige kommunikasie)

Onsekerheid kweek angs. As die span sien die

dieseltenks raak leeg en die baas sê niks nie,

begin die gerugte loop.

» Die “huddle”-metode: Hou kort, daaglikse

“staanvergaderings”. Verduidelik presies

hoeveel diesel beskikbaar is en hoe dit die

dag se take beïnvloed.

» Erken hul eie stryd: Onthou dat jou

personeel ook duurder betaal om by die

werk te kom. Deur bloot te erken dat hulle

ook finansieel swaarkry, bou jy vertroue

en lojaliteit.



2. Beskerm julle werkvloei

(operasionele slimheid)

Moenie net die krisis op jou mense afpak nie;

betrek hulle by die oplossing.

» Saamrygeleenthede: As werkers uit

dieselfde omgewing kom, kyk of die plaas

tydelike vervoer kan reël of help met

brandstofkoste vir saamryklubs.

» Soek die “diesel-lekke”: In die melkstal

is tyd geld en brandstof. Kyk saam met jou

span na die voerwaens se roetes. Kan die

roetes verkort word? Kan ons die trekker se

luiertyd (idling) verminder? As mense help

om te bespaar, voel hulle in beheer.

3. Belê in vaardighede

(opleiding as motivering)

’n Krisis is die ideale tyd om mense se

vaardighede op te skerp. Dit wys jy glo in ’n

toekoms ná die krisis.

» Presisieboerdery: Leer jou span hoe

om meer akkuraat voer te laai of hitteopsporing

te doen. Minder “leë” koeidae

beteken minder vermorste hulpbronne.

» Kruisopleiding: As sekere masjiene

moet stilstaan weens dieseltekorte,

gebruik daardie tyd om personeel in

ander afdelings, soos dieregesondheid of

instandhouding, op te lei.

4. Waardeer poging bo

“nooddruk”

Moenie van mense verwag om “meer met

minder” te doen sonder erkenning nie.

5. Hou by die reëls en

wees regverdig

Selfs in ’n krisis moet ons binne die raamwerk

van die Sektorale Bepaling vir Landbou bly.

» Duidelike kontrakte: Moenie werksure

eensydig verander nie. As skofte

gekonsolideer moet word om op vervoer te

bespaar, gesels eers met jou mense en kry

hul instemming.

» Verblyf op die plaas: Oorweeg dit om

tydelike akkommodasie op die plaas

aan te bied om reiskoste vir werkers

te sny, mits dit aan gesondheids- en

veiligheidstandaarde voldoen.

Die kernboodskap:

Wanneer jou span sien dat jy saam met

hulle in die loopgrawe is – dat jy dieselfde

brandstofmeter en dieselfde syfers dophou –

bou jy lojaliteit wat veel langer as die huidige

krisis sal hou.

Ferdi Hartenzenberg is ’n bestuurspraktisyn

in die Suid-Afrikaanse suiwelsektor. Sy

werk kombineer pragmatiese, praktiese

oplossings met bedryfsamewerking

om veerkragtige spanne en volhoubare

bedrywighede te bou.

Kontak hom vir praktiese advies rakende

die arbeidsmag in die suiwelbedryf:

ferdi@hartcorp.co.za

» Doeltreffendheidsbonusse: Gee

klein belonings vir spanne wat hul

produksieteikens haal terwyl hulle binne

die brandstofbegroting bly.

» Maak die plaas ’n “tuiste”: As dinge

buite die plaas moeilik is, sorg dat die

werksomgewing op die plaas veilig, skoon

en ondersteunend is. Goeie geriewe en

goeie koffie kos min, maar beteken baie.


A GENETIC

APPROACH

to align

your herd

with nature

By Dr B.E. Mostert, SA Stud Book

A “working with nature” approach to genetic evaluation is essentially

about aligning breeding decisions with biological processes,

environmental constraints and animal robustness, rather than

pushing solely for maximum production. In practice, this means

identifying animals that perform well with minimal intervention.

For many years, traditional dairy breeding

objectives prioritised increased milk

production. However, when breeding

efforts focus primarily on a single trait or a

limited number of traits, negative correlated

responses often occur. Notably, these include

reduced milk solid percentages, increased

cow size, decreased fertility and decreased

longevity. High-producing cows often exhibit

shortened productive lives as a result of

inadequate udder and feet-and-leg durability.


NAVORSING EN OPLEIDING • RESEARCH AND TRAINING

Globally, breeding objectives have

therefore evolved to also include functional

traits, such as fertility, longevity and calving

ease; health traits, including disease

resistance and somatic cell count; efficiency

traits, including feed efficiency and

maintenance requirements; and adaptation

traits, such as tolerance and resilience to heat

and other environmental stressors. The key is

therefore to define and implement a balanced

selection index, ensuring that robustness

and efficiency are properly weighted

alongside production.

Fitting the right genotypes to

the local environment

South African dairy cows typically operate

under more extensive and environmentally

challenging conditions compared to

their Northern Hemisphere counterparts.

Consequently, natural selection remains

a key factor in shaping adaptation to local

environmental and production systems.

Due to this natural selection pressure, cows

that exhibit disease and parasite resistance,

heat tolerance, rumen adaptation to pasture

fibre content and resilience to other unique

stressors are favoured. As a result, the

genetic composition of animals from different

populations around the world generally differs

significantly. These differences arise from

the combined effects of natural and artificial

selection over many generations, including

deliberate differences in selection objectives

and selection intensities, mutations – random,

uncontrolled changes in genetic code over

generations and migration effects, particularly

through semen exports, which alter gene

presence and gene frequencies among

populations.

Epigenetic influences—through the

masking or modification of gene expression,

can further result in different sets of genes

being involved in the ultimate expression

of traits in different populations. This is

especially true for traits that directly influence

population survival, such as fertility and

longevity (so-called “fitness” traits). Genotype

× environment (G × E) interactions are

therefore a reality, meaning that animals

perform differently across environments.

The reality is that the best AI bulls from

one population (country) are therefore

not necessarily the best bulls in another

population. It is for this reason that all

prominent dairy-producing countries

(including South Africa) participate in the

INTERBULL International Genetic Evaluations

for dairy cattle. Each participating country

receives a separate ranking list of all global

AI bulls, based on that country’s own genetic

parameters (heritabilities and genetic

correlations among traits), expression of

breeding values (unit of measurement) and

base year definition.


These multiple across country evaluation

(“MACE”) breeding values are directly

comparable to each country’s national

breeding values. As these MACE values take

not only local genetic merit prediction models

and particulars into consideration, but also

the possibility of genotype × environment

(G×E) interactions, they enable local breeders

to determine where any foreign bull ranks

locally and, therefore, how his daughters

are expected to perform in comparison to

the local female population. Trust in genetic

merit predictions of foreign AI bulls, even

with the inclusion of genomic test results,

without proper MACE calculations will most

likely result in selection bias favouring the

wrong sires.

SADAIRYBULLS.com is an open-access

platform, as required by INTERBULL, where all

local and foreign AI bulls’ breeding values are

presented on the South African scale. This is

the only tool where all bulls are fairly ranked

based on the expected outcomes of their

locally produced daughters.

Resilience and robustness of dairy cows

need to be addressed with urgency in local

breeding objectives. Resilience in dairy

cattle can be defined as the ability of cows

to maintain performance under stress.

Indicators of resilience include variability (or

lack thereof) in production. Stability in a cow’s

production most probably identifies her as

being more resilient. Furthermore, recovery

after stressful events, such as illness or a

severe heat wave, is an indicator of a cow’s

resilience. This also needs to include survival

and longevity. Logix Milk recordings offer

a perfect gateway to build up the data and

information required to identify these cows

and cow families.

Genomic selection

– doing it right

The inclusion of genomic information in

the estimation of breeding values is the

most important contributor to genetic

improvement since the establishment of the

AI industry. This is especially true for traits

of low heritability, traits that are difficult to

measure and traits that are measured late in

the animal’s life. Using genomics improves the

accuracy of predicting genetic merit for these

traits significantly, particularly for young, notyet-measured

animals. This allows for earlier

and more accurate selection, enhancing the

rate of genetic improvement.

The application of genomic information

for animals considered as candidates for

selection must be based on the expression of

traits within the population and environment

in which those animals produce and survive.

The genetic code (as obtained from genomic

tests) can only be correctly interpreted

when it is linked to and correlated with

measurements of animals that already have

highly accurate breeding values. These are

animals with accurately recorded phenotypic

data or with a large number of measured

progeny within the population where the

genetic code is to be applied.

For these reasons, a significant increase

in participation in milk recording and the

recording of novel phenotypes, such as

methane emissions (environmental impact),

feed intake (efficiency), immune response

traits and even behavioural traits (grazing

ability, temperament), has occurred in all

prominent dairy countries since the inclusion

of genomic information in their genetic

evaluation systems.

Making a selection decision for a local

heifer based on genomic test results

derived from a different reference or genetic

population (such as the USA) fails to account

for possible re-ranking and other interactions

that may occur.


NAVORSING EN OPLEIDING • RESEARCH AND TRAINING

A balanced selection objective

Dairy breeders need to avoid antagonistic

selection objectives by keeping in mind

that high production may negatively affect

fertility, health and longevity. A working-withnature

strategy explicitly manages genetic

correlations through the inclusion of all

economically important traits in the selection

objective. By applying economic weights,

biological inefficiencies are also penalised.

A very powerful tool is the

SADAIRYBULLS.com mating programme.

Participants in Logix Milk can set up a

customised selection index for their herd

while also considering any bull from around

the world in reaching these ultimate breeding

objectives. The real power lies in the fact

that all these breeding values are directly

comparable to those of the cows in the local

herd. This furthermore ensures genetic

improvement in the next generation for all

traits included in the selection objective.

A sustainable selection index should always

have optimal lifetime performance in mind.

In conclusion

“Working with nature” involves choosing

animals that are efficient rather than extreme,

sturdy instead of fragile and suited to their

environment rather than merely optimised

for ideal conditions. This approach focuses

on optimising biological and environmental

fit, rather than simply maximising production.

Building a herd’s and breed’s phenotypic and

genomic databases is a long-term strategy

aimed at sustainability.


MORE MUSCLE,

MORE MILK VALUE

First Choice High

Protein responds

to rising demand

for functional,

performancedriven

dairy.

South Africa’s appetite for

functional, protein‐rich nutrition

continues to grow and one

of the country’s best‐known

value‐added dairy brands is

responding decisively. First

Choice High Protein (HPR),

the leading ready‐to‐drink

high‐protein milk‐based

beverage, has expanded its range

with the launch of High Protein

Max (27 g) and a reformulated

High Protein Recovery (21 g).


VERWERKING • PROCESSING

The expansion reflects a sustained

consumer shift towards convenient,

performance‐driven dairy products

with measurable health benefits – a trend

with important implications for the local

dairy industry.

Protein moves beyond

niche sports nutrition

According to Marisa Maccaferri, Marketing

Executive at Woodlands Dairy and First

Choice, the range extension is rooted

in both global wellness trends and local

consumer insight.

“Consumers are increasingly choosing

functional drinks with real health benefits.

Protein leads this movement and High Protein

is positioned at the forefront,” she says. “Our

aim is to make it easy for people to get the

right amount of protein, whether they’re

focused on general wellness, active living or

high‐performance training.”

Once seen largely as the domain of elite

athletes, protein supplementation has

become a mainstream nutritional priority.

Busy lifestyles, growing health awareness

and an ageing but active population are

driving demand for products that combine

convenience, taste and scientifically backed

nutrition — without compromising on

clean labels.

For dairy producers, this shift presents

both a challenge and an opportunity: growth

in high‐value protein applications that

enhance milk utilisation beyond traditional

commodity markets.

Two products, distinct

performance needs

The expanded First Choice High Protein

range includes two clearly differentiated

offerings; each designed for a specific

consumer profile.

High Protein Recovery (21 g) is a

reformulated version of the original product

that helped establish the category locally. It

delivers a smoother mouthfeel and 21 g of

protein per 250 ml serving, including over

4 g of branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs)

to support muscle recovery and reduce

soreness. The formulation is low‐fat, high in

calcium and energy, enriched with eight

B vitamins and contains no added sugar.

The newly introduced High Protein

Max (27 g) targets high‐intensity and

performance‐focused users. With 27 g of

protein per 250 ml serving and 6 g or more

BCAAs, it supports muscle growth, strength

development and endurance. The product is

fat‐free, fortified with magnesium, calcium

and eight B vitamins and delivers high

energy without added sugar.


According to Thulile Memela, Brand

Manager at First Choice, the evolution

of the range was strongly shaped by

consumer feedback.

“Athletes and active consumers wanted

better taste, more choice and functionality

they could trust. With Recovery (21 g) and

Max (27 g), we now offer a solution for

everyone – from serious trainers to people

making healthier daily choices.”

Milk protein technology

at the core

From a dairy science perspective, the

formulation is noteworthy. Both products use

a milk protein concentrate (MPC) consisting

of an 80% casein and 20% whey blend,

delivering the benefits of both slow‐ and

fast‐release proteins. This allows for sustained

amino‐acid availability while retaining the

natural nutritional strengths of milk.

The range was developed in collaboration

with food scientists and flavour specialists,

balancing taste, texture and nutrition.

Flavours include Double Berry, Peanut

Butter, Chocochino, Strawberry and

Salted Caramel, the latter added in

response to strong demand for indulgent

yet functional options.

Value‐added dairy

and sustainability

Beyond consumer appeal, the High Protein

expansion highlights a broader strategic

direction for South African dairy processors:

increasing value per litre through innovation.

“All our High Protein products are

sustainably produced in South Africa,”

Maccaferri notes. “They support local farming

and employment and are packaged in 100%

recyclable cartons.”

As cost pressures on dairy farmers

persist, premium, nutritionally differentiated

products offer a pathway to improved

industry resilience.

The expanded range is available nationally

at Checkers, Pick n Pay, Spar and Dis‐Chem,

selected pharmacies and convenience stores,

as well as Takealot and Uber Eats.

As consumers become more health‐aware

and demanding, products like First Choice

High Protein show how dairy can remain

competitive by focusing not only on volume,

but increasingly on function, performance

and innovation.


At DeLaval we understand that dairy farming is a

process. It is ongoing, relentless and it demands

fast, accurate information so that you can make

the best decision for your performance.

How does DeLaval Plus work?

DeLaval Plus is an ever growing set of applications that represent the most

advanced level of farm management analysis and reporting that we have ever

made available.

The reason they are so advanced is that they use the very latest in data processing

and artificial intelligence to analyse data not just from your farm, but from tens of

millions of milkings.

It is the amount of data that makes it so unique, and so valuable, but it also makes

it impossible for human brains to see the trends that are hidden within the data.

Which is why we created DeLaval DeepBlue.

Contact your nearest DeLaval Dealer for more information.

www.delaval.com


TRANSITION TO SUCCESS WITH

Julien et al.

Hylton Buntting - +27 82 648 8302

The Dairymail April 2026

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