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In two marginal dairy communities with similar physical environment, ethnic composition, and farm structure, a significant difference in productivity (milk yield per cow) was related to differences in educational attainment of farmers, proximity to an urban area, and availability of marketing outlets and agricultural information sources. Contains 33 references. (SV)

Effectiveness of a videotape on milking procedures was evaluated by showing it to 218 dairy farmers, with previewing evaluation, 2 viewings with discussion between, and postviewing evaluation. Tape quality and information content were rated highly, but an immediate second viewing was considered less effective than providing tapes for subsequent home viewing. (SK)

Of 21 farmers who watched a video of a master dairy farmer, 69% adopted one or more new practices. A key to successful video production was an articulate subject interacting with knowledgeable extension faculty asking questions. The quality of audio and video equipment was also important. (SK)

Extends research of how dairy farm couples allocate their labor across on- and off-farm work domains. Reports that farm, family, and individual characteristics influence the differentiation and integration of husbands' and wives' on- and off-farm work similarly, but that effects of these factors are mediated by crop. Contains 21 references (Author/DHP)

Describes a study conducted to determine if extension agents could expand their audience through a series of statewide on-farm meetings. The study also sought to determine if the on-farm approach would result in adoption of recommended mastitis control practices. Results are presented and discussed. (CT)

There is scope for improving the sustainability of intensive dairy farms through the uptake of sustainable production practices such as more grass‐based feeding systems. Such feeding systems can reduce feed‐food competition and the environmental impacts of feed production, among other farm‐level and societal benefits. However, empirical research on how farmers' feed choices mis(align) with sustainability transitions and the associated drivers is limited. This paper explores the trade‐offs that farmers make between the environmental, social and economic sustainability impacts of grass‐based feeding systems based on data from Swedish dairy farmers. Using an identity‐based utility framework and a hybrid latent class model, we find substantial heterogeneity in dairy farmers' trade‐offs between feed‐related sustainability attributes: greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity, animal welfare, feed self‐sufficiency, feed cost and milk yield. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate that farmers who are strongly interested in the environmental and social sustainability impacts of their dairy feeding systems, beyond economic gains, are motivated mainly by their pro‐environmental and pro‐social identities. Overall, our findings imply that identity‐enhancing interventions are promising policy instruments for encouraging the uptake of more grass‐based feeding systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor health conditions of livestock cause sizeable losses for many farmers in the Global South. Veterinary services, including vaccinations, could help but often fail to reach farmers under typical smallholder conditions. Here, we examine how the provision of a vaccine against East Coast Fever (ECF)—a tick‐borne disease affecting cattle in Africa—can be designed to reduce typical adoption barriers. Using data from a choice experiment with dairy farmers in Kenya, we evaluate farmers' preferences and willingness to pay for various institutional innovations in vaccine delivery, such as a stronger role of dairy cooperatives, new payment modalities with a check‐off system, vaccination at farmers' homestead, and bundling vaccinations with discounts for livestock insurance. Our data reveal that farmers' awareness of the ECF vaccine is limited and adoption rates are low, largely due to institutional constraints. Results from mixed logit and latent class models suggest that suitable institutional innovations—tailored to farmers' heterogeneous conditions—could significantly increase adoption. This general finding likely also holds for other veterinary technologies and services in the Global South. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Clinical mastitis (CM) treatment decision-making is a multifaceted process that remains relatively understudied, despite CM being one of the most prevalent diseases on dairy farms worldwide, contributing greatly to the use of antimicrobials in the dairy industry. This study aimed to gain insights into decision-making mechanisms employed by dairy farmers in British Columbia and Alberta, Canada, when dealing with CM. Methods: Interviews were held with 15 dairy farmers in the Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Alberta and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to develop both the decision-pathway and overarching themes influencing the CM decisions by farmers in this region. Results and discussion: The analysis generated a decision-making process that begins with identification and classification of CM, guided by visual characteristics of milk and the udder, available milk production and quality data, presence of systemic signs, and additional diagnostics. Subsequently, CM cases are assessed based on the likelihood of cure, value of the cow, and herd goals to decide whether antimicrobial treatment is desired. Next, a treatment choice is made by evaluating severity and urgency of the case, availability of drugs and timing of the case. Finally, definition of treatment success and progression over time following the treatment decision guides the termination of treatment. Three overarching themes were generated that shape the decision-making process: 'Personal attributes', including personal approach and experiential knowledge; 'Inter-actor dynamics', such as shared decision-making and dynamics among producers, veterinarians, and milkers; and 'Moving beyond protocols', which highlights the dynamic nature of mastitis decision-making. These insights have the potential to inform the development of effective interventions to improve CM antimicrobial use that align with the reality of farming operations within Western Canada, and potentially beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of standard abbreviations for JDS is available at adsa.org/jds-abbreviations-24. Nonstandard abbreviations are available in the Notes. For successful development and adoption of technology on dairy farms, farmers need to be included in the innovation process. However, the design of agricultural technologies usually takes a top-down approach with little involvement of end-users at the early stages. Living Labs offer a methodology that involve end-users throughout the development process and emphasize the importance of understanding users' needs. Currently, exploration of dairy farmers' technology needs has been limited to specific types of technology (e.g., smartphone apps) and adult cattle. The aim of this study was to use a Living Lab approach to identify dairy farmers' data and technology needs to improve herd health and inform innovation development. We conducted 18 focus groups with a total of 80 dairy farmers from Belgium, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. Data were analyzed using Template Analysis, and 6 themes were generated representing the fundamental needs of autonomy, comfort, competence, community and relatedness, purpose, and security. Farmers favored technologies that provided them with convenience, facilitated their knowledge and understanding of problems on farm, and allowed them to be self-reliant. Issues with data sharing and accessibility and usability of software were barriers to technology use. Furthermore, farmers were facing problems around recruitment and management of labor and needed ways to reduce stress. Controlling aspects of the barn environment, such as air quality, hygiene, and stocking density, were particular concerns in relation to youngstock management. Overall, the findings suggest that developers of farm technologies may want to include farmers in the design process to ensure a positive user experience and improve accessibility. The needs identified in this study can be used as a framework when designing farm technologies to strengthen need satisfaction and reduce any potential harm toward needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the uptake of education and training by Irish dairy farmers and how they perceive their training needs to be evolving as their farm business grows and they become employers. Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative survey was conducted with 315 dairy farmers, who were randomly selected based on herd size and location to be representative of dairy farmers in Ireland. Findings: The results demonstrate the number of people working on the farm influence farmers' educational and training requirements. The results of this study show the need for specific human resource management advice and training for dairy farm employers. Practical implications: This study provides an understanding about the type of education or advice farmers need when transitioning into larger-scale businesses, which require more hired labour. Theoretical implications: This paper demonstrates that dairy farmers' experiences of education and training is dependent on where individuals are within their transitional experience, highlighting the importance of change management research in terms of life-long learning. Originality/value: Uniquely this study provides an understanding of how dairy farmers' education and training needs are evolving as their businesses develop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reducing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) requires a multidisciplinary One Health approach, which necessitates buy-in from all stakeholders. In Aotearoa New Zealand, where the dairy industry is one of the largest users of antimicrobials, there are ongoing efforts to optimise antimicrobial usage (AMU) to minimise the development of AMR. These include regulations around the veterinary authorisation of the use of antibiotics by farmers without the need for a specific prescription ("the RVM process") and programmes such as the New Zealand Veterinary Association's antibiotic 'Traffic Light System'. The goal of this pilot survey was to develop and trial a questionnaire to determine how much Aotearoa dairy farmers understand about One Health, AMR, the RVM process and how their actions regarding AMU affect the wider environment. Methods: A 55-question semi-structured questionnaire was piloted on 15 dairy farms in the Lower North Island of Aotearoa New Zealand via an in-person semi-structured interview between September and November 2021. Results: None of the interviewed farmers could define the term One Health. However, the majority found the RVM process to be of use on their farm, although admitted they generally felt frustration regarding AMR, seeing it as a blockage to productivity, and lacked awareness regarding how their actions were related to its development. Of the farmers interviewed over half had not heard of the traffic light system, and of those who had, one admitted they refused to adhere to it. Conclusions: This survey's novel findings have highlighted that there are notable gaps within dairy farmer understanding of AMU, AMR and One Health as well as highlighting that veterinarians could do more to keep their clients informed of their important role within One Health. There is still a lot more work to do with regards to vets, farmers and industry representatives working together to embrace One Health. Simple solutions would be to encourage farmers returning unused drugs to their veterinarians for correct disposal and to actively engage farmers further regarding AMU and AMR, so that these end-product users do not feel disconnected from the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increasing number of dairy farmers plan to implement cow-calf contact (CCC) in their herd which necessitates descriptions of the cows' performance in different systems. The aim of the study was to describe (1) Automatic milking system (AMS) milk yield of cows in a CCC system during the first 100 days in milk (DIM) and (2) AMS milk yield before and after cow-calf separation. In a prospective study at a commercial Norwegian dairy farm, we included all calvings from Norwegian Red cows between January 2019 to April 2020. After calving, cow-calf pairs stayed in an individual calving pen during the first 5–6 d before they were moved to the loose housing unit with the remaining herd. Calves had whole-day (24 h/d) and full physical contact to the cows. Cows were milked in an AMS. From 14 individual cows of which one cow calved twice during the study period, we collected daily AMS yields from 15 different lactations, with parities ranging from 1 (n = 6), 2 (n = 5) and 3 (n = 4). Due to the sample size and structure of the data set, we only calculated descriptive statistics from DIM 7-100. All data is shown separately for primiparous and multiparous cows. Mean (± SD) calf age at (fence-line) separation was 52 d ± 14.8 beyond which suckling was prevented. Our data indicates great individual variation in the AMS milk yield. Prior to separation, primiparous cows' AMS yields ranged from 11.0 to 25.9 kg/d while that of multiparous cows ranged from 4.8 to 28.8 kg/d. Once calves were no longer allowed to suckle, the yield increased gradually. During the week after separation, AMS yields ranged from 17.3 to 30.4 kg/d for primiparous cows and 8.7 to 41.8 kg/d for multiparous cows and these yields increased in DIM 93–100 (26.5 to 34.3 and 20.6 to 38.3 kg/d respectively). This study is limited by a low sample size from a single-herd but may provide useful descriptions of AMS milk yield in a whole-day, full contact CCC system during the first 100 days of lactation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to estimate the total financial (direct and indirect) and avoidable losses related to lameness in Turkish dairy herds. Official and previous published data were used for determining the mean (12.9%) and target prevalence (6.6%) values. Direct financial losses due to lameness were calculated as treatment costs, involuntary culling, and milk yield losses. Indirect losses consisted of extended calving intervals and extra insemination losses. As a result, the average financial loss of lameness per case on dairy farms was $153.8 ($116.8 for mild and $264.7 for severe forms) in Türkiye. Avoidable losses ($75.1) were calculated to be equivalent to 187 liters of cow's milk with current prices for the 2023 year. The share of direct and indirect financial losses was 49.6% and 50.4%, respectively. Total annual losses related to lameness in Türkiye are calculated at $130.5 million (326 million Lt. milk eq.), although $63.7 million (159 million Lt. milk eq.) of the losses could be avoided by farmers. The milk equivalent of avoidable losses corresponds to 0.77% of Türkiye's total annual milk production. In conclusion, lameness causes significant financial losses in Turkish dairy herds. However, almost half of these losses (48.8%) may be avoidable with better management practices which help to increase the productivity and profitability of dairy farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial use (AMU) data are essential to monitor the effect of AMU reduction strategies in animal health. The use of technology and herd recording software to record AMU will be vital to scale the collation of these data in the future. The aim of this study was to determine the barriers and facilitators to Irish dairy farmers recording their AMU using a herd recording software and sharing AMU data. Thirty-three Irish dairy farmers involved in a study on AMU monitoring were asked to record their AMU using a herd recording software over a 12-mo period. At the end of the 12-mo period, 10 of these farmers were selected to take part in semi-structured interviews exploring their opinions on recording AMU, the use of herd recording software, and sharing AMU data. Interviews were transcribed and qualitatively analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Several barriers and facilitators to farmers recording their AMU using a herd recording software and sharing AMU data were identified. Barriers included the age and generation of the farmer, farm infrastructure, a lack of training and education, a lack of knowledge around the benefits of digital data, a lack of incentive to digitize records, and a fear of repercussions. Facilitators identified by the farmers included the benefits of having instantly available data for making herd management decisions, reduced paperwork, increased organization for inspections, and a potential positive effect on the image of the dairy industry. To increase the uptake of new technology to record AMU at farm-level, farmers will need support in terms of education and training around the software available to them and reassurance around the perceived risks of repercussions with sharing data in a digital format. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bovine herpes virus type 1 (BoHV-1) the causative agent of Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) is of great concern to dairy farmers and veterinarians due to great economic impact caused by the virus in terms of loss of production and abortion. Therefore, the study was planned to detect the virus circulating in the bovine population of the region under study. This virus is an important pathogen of bovine respiratory diseases. The aim of the present study was to isolate the BoHV-1 virus from the upper respiratory tract of bovines. Methods: A total of 13 nasal swab samples were subjected to virus isolation in Madin Darby Bovine Kidney (MDBK) cells lines. A PCR assay was applied to confirm the BoHV-1 DNA by targeting gI glycoprotein gene in isolates. Result: Total two IBR virus isolates were recovered from 13 nasal swab samples of bovines. Both isolates exhibited cytopathic effects i.e. clumping and rounding of cells. A 468 base pair of amplified product from both isolates confirmed the IBR virus in gI gene specific PCR for BoHV-1. This study concludes that IBR virus exists among cattle population of Punjab and it is present in the upper respiratory tract of infected animal and shed through respiratory route. The PCR detection assay for detection of BoHV-1 from nasal swab samples is considerably more sensitive than virus isolation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Farmer cooperatives represent a vertical coordination strategy aimed at reducing transaction costs and facilitating the adoption of technologies among farmers. In their roles, cooperatives undertake internal coordination of activities which may include enforcement measures, provision of quality inputs, internal control, and negotiation of favourable terms of exchange with buyers. However, limited attention has been given to understanding how cooperatives' performance in the internal coordination of activities either promotes or hinders the continued adoption of agricultural technologies among cooperative members. We conducted a case study of the dairy sector in West Java, Indonesia, and utilised a mixed-method approach combining insight from dairy cooperative board members and dairy farming households. Our results suggest that the dis-adoption of dairy technologies is rooted in weak or non-existent monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to ensure input and output quality, the absence of price incentives, and inadequate provision of extension services. Furthermore, the lack of tight monitoring and control mechanisms reduces the cooperatives' bargaining power with input providers and milk buyers. Unless these issues within the cooperatives are addressed, continued adoption of recommended dairy farming practices by smallholder farmers will not be sustained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Reducing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) requires a multidisciplinary One Health approach, which necessitates buy-in from all stakeholders. In Aotearoa New Zealand, where the dairy industry is one of the largest users of antimicrobials, there are ongoing efforts to optimise antimicrobial usage (AMU) to minimise the development of AMR. These include regulations around the veterinary authorisation of the use of antibiotics by farmers without the need for a specific prescription (“the RVM process”) and programmes such as the New Zealand Veterinary Association’s antibiotic ‘Traffic Light System’. The goal of this pilot survey was to develop and trial a questionnaire to determine how much Aotearoa dairy farmers understand about One Health, AMR, the RVM process and how their actions regarding AMU affect the wider environment. Methods A 55-question semi-structured questionnaire was piloted on 15 dairy farms in the Lower North Island of Aotearoa New Zealand via an in-person semi-structured interview between September and November 2021. Results None of the interviewed farmers could define the term One Health. However, the majority found the RVM process to be of use on their farm, although admitted they generally felt frustration regarding AMR, seeing it as a blockage to productivity, and lacked awareness regarding how their actions were related to its development. Of the farmers interviewed over half had not heard of the traffic light system, and of those who had, one admitted they refused to adhere to it. Conclusions This survey’s novel findings have highlighted that there are notable gaps within dairy farmer understanding of AMU, AMR and One Health as well as highlighting that veterinarians could do more to keep their clients informed of their important role within One Health. There is still a lot more work to do with regards to vets, farmers and industry representatives working together to embrace One Health. Simple solutions would be to encourage farmers returning unused drugs to their veterinarians for correct disposal and to actively engage farmers further regarding AMU and AMR, so that these end-product users do not feel disconnected from the process.

ABSTRACT: Antimicrobial use (AMU) data are essential to monitor the effect of AMU reduction strategies in animal health. The use of technology and herd recording software to record AMU will be vital to scale the collation of these data in the future. The aim of this study was to determine the barriers and facilitators to Irish dairy farmers recording their AMU using a herd recording software and sharing AMU data. Thirty-three Irish dairy farmers involved in a study on AMU monitoring were asked to record their AMU using a herd recording software over a 12-mo period. At the end of the 12-mo period, 10 of these farmers were selected to take part in semi-structured interviews exploring their opinions on recording AMU, the use of herd recording software, and sharing AMU data. Interviews were transcribed and qualitatively analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Several barriers and facilitators to farmers recording their AMU using a herd recording software and sharing AMU data were identified. Barriers included the age and generation of the farmer, farm infrastructure, a lack of training and education, a lack of knowledge around the benefits of digital data, a lack of incentive to digitize records, and a fear of repercussions. Facilitators identified by the farmers included the benefits of having instantly available data for making herd management decisions, reduced paperwork, increased organization for inspections, and a potential positive effect on the image of the dairy industry. To increase the uptake of new technology to record AMU at farm-level, farmers will need support in terms of education and training around the software available to them and reassurance around the perceived risks of repercussions with sharing data in a digital format.

Innovation is a key driver of productivity growth. This paper proposes a novel methodology in order to explore the impact of farm-level innovations on farm productivity and its components (i.e. technology, efficiency and scale) using representative data from Irish dairy farms. We measure innovation by an index based on employed production practices, continuous innovation activity and knowledge weighted by expert opinions. The results suggest that more innovative Irish dairy farmers are more productive. Specifically, all farmers improve their production technology and efficiency through their use of innovations, but farmers at specific levels of innovativeness may experience a decrease in productivity due to the small scale at which they operate. This indicates that innovation has a non-linear effect on productivity. We discuss the policy implications for reducing the unequal gains of innovation across farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Foodborne zoonotic diseases caused by inadequate on-farm controls are a major global public health concern, despite dairy products' nutritional value and role in food security. To improve dairy safety on farms, it is critical to understand the factors that influence the adoption of safe milk production practices. The objective of this paper was to assess milk safety practices implemented on smallholder dairy farms and to identify factors associated with farm-level adoption of these practices by dairy farmers in Ethiopia. Methods A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data from 424 randomly selected dairy farmers across five districts in Ethiopia, with 410 of them being used in the analysis. The level of milk safety practices was developed based on the reported adoption of 45 recommended milk safety measures, which were grouped under animal health, milking hygiene, milk storage, and general hygienic practices. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to describe and compare key variables, while factors associated with the adoption of milk safety practices under each group and the overall level of milk safety practices adopted were identified using truncated Poisson and ordinary least squares, respectively. Results Smallholder dairy farmers adopted 59% of the milk safety practices, with considerable variation across dairy farmers. Although the level of milk safety practices adoption does not significantly differ between the two zones, our finding uncovered that most of the factors associated with the adoption of milk safety practices significantly differ between zones. This demonstrates that there is a need for location-specific policy recommendations and strategies to improve the adoption of milk safety practices by dairy producers in Ethiopia. Households with more education, dairy farming experience, dairy production training, access to milk safety information, access to credit, and experience with milk safety inspections adopted significantly more milk safety measures. On the other hand, the number of lactating cows, distance from water and proportion of milk consumed at home were found to be negatively associated with milk safety practices adopted. Conclusions The findings of the study suggest that strengthening food safety inspections at the farm and improving regulatory enforcement, disseminating food safety information through different outlets and location-specific interventions are important to improve the adoption of milk safety practices in Ethiopia.

This study investigated the critical issue of credit access and its implications for climate change adaptation among dairy farmers in East Java, Indonesia. Using survey cross-sectional data from a sample of 70 dairy farmers, this research employs a combination of probit modelling and propensity score matching (PSM) to examine the determinants of credit access and evaluate its impact on climate change adaptation. The findings indicate that credit access is positively and significantly associated with factors such as farming experience, family size, and the number of employed household members. These factors emerge as pivotal determinants shaping farmers' ability to secure credit. The analysis employing PSM further reveals a notable effect of credit access on climate change adaptation. Farmers with access to credit demonstrate a greater propensity to adopt and implement a greater number of climate change adaptation strategies. The positive association between credit access and climate change adaptation underscores the potential role of financial support in enhancing farmers' resilience to environmental challenges. This suggests that facilitating credit access for farmers could significantly contribute to promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the context of climate change. These findings have implications for policymakers, agricultural practitioners, and financial institutions. By leveraging these insights, targeted interventions can be devised to improve credit accessibility for farmers, thereby fostering effective climate change adaptation strategies within the agricultural sector.

Cost-effective methods are crucial in small-scale operations to assess the physicochemical properties of milk, identify potential clinical or subclinical mastitis, and test β-lactams in small ruminants. The aim was to evaluate the importance of physicochemical characteristics, somatic cells, and antibacterial substances as factors for monitoring the quality and safety of bulk tank milk from sheep and goats. Furthermore, we aimed to elucidate the influence of grazing capacity on the composition of sheep milk. The fat content of sheep milk (n=119) was found to be 7.7%, with a range of 5.3% to 9.9%. The average fat content of dairy goats (n=33) was found to be 4.9%, with a range of 2.8-6.7%. The results indicate that 2.8% of sheep milk samples and 7.8% of goat milk samples exhibited clear positive reactions when assessed using the California mastitis test. β-lactam antibiotics were present in 0.7% of sheep milk samples, but not in any of the goat milk samples using lateral flow strips. This measurement method can be useful to detect adulterated milk and better understand the quality and safety of small ruminant milk before processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Managing people outside the farm family unit is a new issue for many Irish dairy farmers. In the context of rapid growth, the demand for employees has increased, creating the need for Irish dairy farmers to have human resource management (HRM) skills. Aims: This paper explores the extent and type of HRM practices adopted by Irish dairy farmers and the factors that influence their adoption. Methods: A questionnaire was developed, piloted, and issued to farmers on the basis of herd size and location. Data from 203 dairy farmers who employ people were analysed to examine the adoption of different HRM practices and the influence of farm characteristics, farmer demographics and farmer attitudes on their adoption. HRM practices included compliance with employment legislation, health and safety, different approaches to recruitment, workforce management and retention. The questionnaire included one or more variables for each of these HRM practices. Where more than one variable was included, an aggregate variable was developed for that practice. Key results: Whereas, overall, there was a low level of adoption of best HRM practices, farm characteristics such as herd size and number of employees had a significant influence on farmers' adoption of compliance with employment legislation, health and safety, recruitment, workforce management and retention practices. Demographic factors such as age, level of education, and average hours worked influenced farmers compliance with employment law legislation, workforce management practices and retention practices. Conclusions: The study highlighted an overall low compliance with employment legislation and low adoption of best practices in managing staff among dairy farmers in Ireland. Implications: This study highlighted that improvement is needed in all areas of HRM on Irish dairy farms. The findings of this study would be useful to farm advisors who support dairy farmers in improving their management of their businesses. Overall, this study has contributed to a greater understanding of the challenges in managing people in agriculture and how certain factors influences the adoption of HRM practices on dairy farms. The dairy industry's recent growth in Ireland has resulted in a high demand for additional workers, increasing the requirement for farmers to be skilled in Human Resource Management (HRM). This study identified that the adoption of HRM practices is influenced by farm characteristics, in particular herd size, the number of employees on the farm. This study has contributed insights into the prevalence of specific HRM practices on Irish dairy farms, and indicated that there is a significant scope for improvement. A novel aspect of this study was the focus on the potential factors that influence the adoption of HRM practices on Irish dairy farms. The findings of this study could be used by agricultural advisors and those working in HRM to provide tailored advice to support dairy farmers and other small business owners in managing their employees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Reducing antibiotic use in production animal systems is one strategy which may help to limit the development of antimicrobial resistance. To reduce antimicrobial use in food‐producing animals, it is important to first understand how antibiotics are used on farm and what barriers exist to decreasing their use. In dairy production systems, mastitis is one of the most common reasons for administering antimicrobials. Therefore, it is important to understand the motivations and behaviours of dairy farmers in relation to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mastitis. Materials and methods: In this study, we interviewed a sample of dairy farmers and dairy industry professionals from the major dairying regions of eastern Australia regarding their current practices used to diagnose, treat, and control subclinical and clinical mastitis. Inductive thematic analysis was used to code interview transcripts and identify the recurrent themes. Results: Four overarching themes were identified: (1) the challenges associated with the detection and diagnosis of clinical mastitis, including with laboratory culture, (2) the motivations behind treatment decisions for different cases, (3) decisions around dry cow therapy and the role of herd recording, and (4) concerns regarding the development of antimicrobial resistance. Discussion: This study identifies several challenges which may limit the ability of Australian dairy farmers to reduce antimicrobial use on farm, such as the need for rapid and reliable diagnostic tests capable of identifying the pathogenic causes of mastitis and the difficulties associated with conducting herd recording for the implementation of selective dry cow therapy. Industry professionals were concerned that farmers were not using individual cow records to aid in treatment decisions, which could result in unnecessary antimicrobial use. The results of this study can act as the basis for future research aimed at assessing these issues across the broader Australian dairy industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dairy co-operatives provide a stable source of income for thousands of dairy farmers in Palakkad district of Kerala. The rural people are primarily involved in farming activities such as animal husbandry and dairying. The research was carried out with an objective to study the empowerment of dairy farmers who were members of dairy co-operatives in Palakkad district. The primary data were collected from 200 active members of the four dairy co-operatives, namely Moolathara milk producer’s co-operative society Ltd. No. P 65 (D), Kunnamkattupathy milk producer’s co-operative society Ltd. No. P 126 (D), Menonpara milk producer’s co-operative society Ltd. No. P 281 (D), and Attappadi milk producer’s co-operative society Ltd. No. P 558 (D). Structured interview schedule was used for data collection. The data were analyzed by using the index method.The selected dairy co-operatives in the Palakkad district play an important role in the economic, social, psychological, and political empowerment of its member dairy farmers. The dairy farmer members make significant contributions to dairy development in Palakkad. Their involvement in dairy farming is regarded as an important tool for alleviating poverty and improving the rural community’s quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Kenyan dairy sector has economic potential to improve the welfare of rural households. However, the availability of feed resources, an essential input in dairy production, remains a significant constraint and is exacerbated by the effects of climate change. Using a sample of 665 dairy farmers from selected counties, this study assessed the determinants and impact of adoption of climate-smart feeding practices on milk productivity and output, dairy milk commercialization, and dairy and household income. The multinomial endogenous switching regression was used to account for self-selection bias from observable and non-observable factors. The study identified human and social capital, resource endowment, dairy feeding systems, the source of information about feeding practices, and perceived characteristics of these practices as factors that influenced the likelihood of adopting climate-smart feeding practices. The uptake of climate-smart fodder and feed concentrates together significantly increased milk productivity and output and dairy income. The uptake of climate-smart feed concentrates singly also increased dairy milk commercialization and household income. To facilitate the uptake of climate-smart feeding practices, pluralistic extension systems should be strengthened, practices made available, knowledge about climate change enhanced, and practice-oriented learning adopted. Further, the adoption of both climate-smart fodder and feed concentrates should be emphasized for improved household welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Buttermilk, a significant by-product of the dairy industry, is acknowledged as a beneficial food due to its content of water-soluble vitamins, polar lipids, and milk fat globule membranes. This research is focused on investigating the potential of buttermilk as a substitute in the production of a novel soft cheese type "camembert". Methods: A total of 12 cheese samples of camembert cheese, both with and without buttermilk, were prepared and subjected to a series of physico-chemical analyses in October 2023 to measure protein, fat, total solids, pH, and production yield. Texture Profile Analysis was applied to evaluate textural characteristics, and the microstructure was examined using Scanning Electron Microscopy. A hedonic scale was employed in sensory evaluation to measure taste intensity. Results: The sample containing 90% cow's milk and 10% buttermilk exhibited the most significant (p=0.05) physico-chemical characteristics as production yield of 45.33%±0.710, protein content of 28.9%±0.58, fat content of 24.88%±0.026, total solids of 54.62±0.23, and a pH of 6.42±0.58. Sensory evaluations demonstrated that camembert samples containing buttermilk were distinguished by high sensory quality and satisfactory taste profiles. In addition, a dense and tightly fused protein matrix was observed in the microstructure of the buttermilk fortified cheese. The results also emphasized that the acidic nature of buttermilk significantly affected the production yield, total solids content, and textural characteristics, evidenced by a hardness of 3.36 N and fracturability of 1.75 N. Conclusion: The results validate the use of buttermilk as an effective alternative in the production of a new type of soft cheese, manifesting improved sensory, structural, and physico-chemical characteristics. This investigation supports the innovative utilization of buttermilk in cheese production, potentially offering a valuable avenue for dairy industry by-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dairy industry has been expanding significantly recently, which has prompted the improvement and adoption of increasingly digital dairy recording tools with cutting-edge technology. The study aimed to identify smallholder dairy farmers’ recording tools in developing countries. The study presents the results of an extensive literature review conducted using electronic journal databases. The review involved applying a combination of search terms and Boolean operators. The search found a total of 412 research publications. However, only 21 articles with 24 recording tools were deemed appropriate and were subsequently included in the study. Dairy recording entails gathering and managing data on animal information, traceability, health, and productivity that can be conducted using various methods, from manual record-keeping to digitization. The results show that most studies have endeavoured to develop digital recording tools that focus on production performance (PR), mainly milk production, using the Internet of Things (IoT) and mobile phone applications. Moreover, various technologies, such as networks, desktops, and web apps, have also been invented. Given the widespread ownership of mobile phones among the general population, the use of mobile phones continues to be an appealing choice for recording tools. To enhance the advancement of these tools, it is necessary to address technological obstacles, particularly those associated with access and connectivity. In addition, it is also important to consider the continuity of data input and feedback obtained to the farmers, thus helping them evaluate their farms periodically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we review the Agrarian Question focusing on dairy farms. We have the dual aim of adding to the debate surrounding the economic profitability of small and large dairy farms and increasing what is known about the decline of dairy farms. The agrarian question at the heart of our research centres on the paradoxical endurance of family farms, despite predictions from both liberal and Marxist perspectives that they would diminish in number over time. By addressing these complex issues, we hope to shed light on the challenges and opportunities facing the dairy industry today. We focus on analysing dairy farms in the European Union countries, using panel regressions from 2008 to 2018 to define the relationship between the average number of cows per farm, profit margins and Farm Net Income. The most important results show that (i) paradoxically, profits were higher on smaller farms; (ii) however, empirical data show that small dairy farms are disappearing; (iii) this is because when including subsidies, farms with a higher number of cows are more profitable than smaller farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chesapeake Bay watershed is representative of governance challenges relating to agricultural nonpoint source pollution and, more generally, of sustainable resources governance in complex multi-actor settings. We assess information flows around Best Management Practices (BMPs) undertaken by dairy farmers in central Pennsylvania, a subregion of the watershed. We apply a mixed-method approach, combining Social Network Analysis, the analysis of BMP-messaging (i.e. information source, flow, and their influences), and qualitative content analysis of stakeholders' interviews. Key strategic actors were identified through network centrality measures such as degree of node, betweenness centrality, and clustering coefficient. The perceived influence/credibility (by farmers) of BMP-messages and their source, allowed for the identification of strategic entry points for BMP-messages diffusion. Finally, the inductive coding process of stakeholders' interviews revealed major hindrances and opportunities for BMPs adoption. We demonstrate how improved targeting of policy interventions for BMPs uptake may be achieved, by better distributing entry-points across stakeholders. Our results reveal governance gaps and opportunities, on which we draw to provide insights for better tailored policy interventions. We propose strategies to optimize the coverage of policy mixes and the dissemination of BMP-messages by building on network diversity and actors' complementarities, and by targeting intervention towards specific BMPs and actors. We suggest that (i) conservation incentives could target supply chain actors as conservation intermediaries; (ii) compliance-control of manure management planning could be conducted by accredited private certifiers; (iii) policy should focus on incentivizing inter-farmers interaction (e.g. farmers' mobility, training, knowledge-exchange, and engagement in multi-stakeholders collaboration) via financial or non-pecuniary compensation; (iv) collective incentives could help better coordinate conservation efforts at the landscape or (sub-)watershed scale; (v) all relevant stakeholders (including farmers) should be concerted and included in the discussion, proposition, co-design and decision process of policy, in order to take their respective interests and responsibilities into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decision support systems (DSSs) enable dairy farmers to make informed and timely decisions on herd health management. However, the lack of a disease scoring system by category and severity limits the application of this approach. In this study, we developed an innovative approach to dairy herd health management by establishing a novel scoring system for dairy herd health management aimed at providing a more nuanced understanding of disease impact. For this purpose, we retrieved 5-year data from 2 558 disease diary records of 798 primiparous and multiparous cows housed on a Czech farm and classified 125 production diseases into six categories, namely lameness, mastitis, postpartum diseases, digestive system, reproductive diseases and other diseases. Based on this metric, we developed a data-driven DSS for farm management. Using this DSS, we identified markers of disease categories for efficient veterinary monitoring on dairy farms. This DSS highlighted a decreasing trend of average monthly disease scores, yet the prevalence of postpartum and other diseases increased during the same period, due to changes in reproduction management within the herd. These findings underscore the need for data-driven targeted interventions for promoting the herd health. Therefore, our scoring model not only provides a comprehensive framework for dairy herd health monitoring and improvement but also advances dairy farming by providing a decision support system easily applicable to dairy farms based on available data recorded in disease diaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed some serious economic challenges to the livestock sector globally. Reportedly, the COVID-19 related restrictions have resulted in decreased demand as well as prices for dairy products, resulting in substantial losses to the dairy sector. The present study was designed to investigate the COVID-19 effect on dairy farmers and the provision of public sector veterinary services in Pakistan. A cross-sectional tele-survey was conducted in two regions of Pakistan, i.e., Bahawalpur Division and Karachi dairy colonies. A total of 134 veterinary professionals and 218 farms (126 from Bahawalpur Division, 92 from Karachi) were interviewed using a standardized questionnaire. The collected information was analyzed using SPSS and Epi Info version 7.2. Majority of farmers from Bahawalpur Division reported a decrease in milk demand of 64% (81) after onset of COVID-19. Similarly, 88% (81) of the dairy colonies in Karachi also experienced the lockdown effect on sale of milk. Primarily, compromised prices, lower sales and sometimes complete lack of milk sales were the reasons for economic losses in Bahawalpur Division and Karachi region respectively. Furthermore, 16% of farmers reported selling animals, 14% stated considering to winding up business entirely, and 20% laid off employees. Merely 13% use their savings to cover their losses. Farmers unable to sell their entire milk yield used the milk to make value-added products like butter, ghee, and khoya, while other used it at home and calves' feed respectively. Farmers reported to compensating for the lower income either by taking loans, selling animals, and reducing the staff. Professionals from both regions reported compromised ability to provide veterinary services, including after-hours private practice (36%, 56%), the number of farmers visiting the veterinary hospitals (93%, 75%), and provision of (93%, 70%) extension services. However, there was a significant increase reported in telemedicine by 82% in Karachi and 63% in the Bahawalpur Division. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dairy farming is highly vulnerable to climate change in Pakistan; therefore, productivity and earnings of small dairy farmers are at a higher risk. Dairy farmers can reduce the determintal impacts of climate change on productivity and earnings by adaptation to climate change. It is thus critical to understand the adaptation to climate change among dariy farmers and consequent impacts on productivity and earnings. Using cross-sectional data of 450 dairy farmers from three different agroecological zones of Punjab, Pakistan, study has employed the logistic regression to determine determinants of adaptation and to analyze the adaptation impact on farm productivity and on earnings of the farmers. Educated and large farm size farmers are highly probable to adopting more adaptation measures compared to their counterparts. Estimates of PSM reveal that milk productivity and earings of adapters are higher than non-adapters. Regular vaccination found to be the most widely adopted strategy, which provides greater returns in terms of sustained milk prodction and improved dairy income. The research makes significant recommendations for adapting policies to climate change in dairy farming for improving well-being of rural households. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to identify the factors affecting the entrepreneur's choice of the dairy value chain and evaluate the impact of the value chain on farm performance (profit). Design/methodology/approach: Primary data were collected from dairy entrepreneurs in India, covering nine states. A multinomial treatment effect model (controlling for selection bias and endogeneity) was used to evaluate the impact of the choice of the value chain on entrepreneurs' profit. Findings: Dairy entrepreneurs operating in any recognized value chain other than the value chain driven by the consumer household realize a comparatively lesser profit. Dairy farmers have established direct linkages with customers in urban areas – who could pay premium prices for safe and quality milk. Food safety compliance is positively associated with profit and entrepreneurs (who have undergone formal training in dairying) preferred partnerships with a formal value chain. The prospects of starting a dairy enterprise are slightly higher in villages compared to urban areas. Research limitations/implications: Dairy entrepreneurs can make a shift in accordance with the study's findings and boost their profitability. It aids in comprehending how trainees (who obtained advice and training for raising dairy animals from R&D organizations) and non-trainee dairy farmers make value chain selections, which ultimately affect profitability. However, purposive sampling and a small sample size limit the universal implications of the study. Social implications: Developing entrepreneurial behavior and startup culture is at the center of policymaking in India. The findings imply that the emerging value chain not only enhances the profit of dairy farmers by resolving consumer concerns about food safety and the quality of milk and milk products but also builds consumer trust. Originality/value: This paper offers insight into how the benefits of dairy entrepreneurs vary with their participation in the different value chains. The impact of skill development/training programs on value chain selection and farm profitability has not yet been fully understood. Here is an attempt to fill this gap. This paper through light on how trained and educated dairy entrepreneurs are able to establish a territorial market by approaching premium customers – this is an addition to the existing literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was done to assess the utilization patterns of antiparasitic drugs among dairy owners and their perceptions regarding resistance development. A total of 160 dairy farmers, consisting of 80 Small Dairy Farmers (SDF) and 80 Large Dairy Farmers (LDF) were selected for the study from 8 different districts of 2 states of India (Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh). A pre-tested structured interview schedule was used for collecting data. In the study area, the majority of the dairy farmers were middle-aged males, middle-level educated and had a moderate level of experience in dairy farming. All the farmers were observed utilizing chemical antiparasitic drugs for managing parasitic infestations in dairy animals. Regarding parasite control, SDF relied on para-veterinarians, while LDF preferred self-treatment for their dairy animals. A primary source for acquiring antiparasitic drugs was pharmacy stores with and without a prescription from qualified animal health care service providers. It was found that approximately one-third of the farmers did not refer to drug labels for dose calculation. However, dairy farmers primarily relied on visual observation of animal body weight to calculate antiparasitic drug doses. The majority of the farmers stored antiparasitic drugs in their dairy farms. Moreover, the farmers expressed an average perception towards the antiparasitic resistance development. Among the various socio-economic factors, education and training were found the strongest predictors that made the highest changes in perception. The overall findings indicate that farmers were neither well-versed in the scientific practices related to the usage of antiparasitic drugs nor familiar with resistance issues. Despite this, they were continuing to acquire and administer drugs without seeking advice from the qualified veterinarians. Consequently, indiscriminate use of antiparasitic drugs in livestock sector has the potential to contribute to the emergence of resistance. It is imperative to create awareness among farmers about the importance of rational use of drugs to mitigate the risk of resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Milk is highly perishable and can be a conduit for the transmission of zoonotic foodborne pathogens. This cross-sectional survey involving 159 farming households and 18 participant observations in participating farms was undertaken in Addis Ababa and surrounding areas in Oromia, Ethiopia to assess the adoption of food safety measures in smallholder farms. Adoption of food safety measures at the farm level influences milk quality and safety across the entire milk value chain, from "grass to glass". This study considered the adoption of 36 different food safety measures (FSM) including animal health, milking hygiene, hygienic milk storage, and hygienic milking premises. A weighted food safety index (FSI, ranging from 0 to 100) was calculated for each household based on FSM adopted. Ordinary Least Squares linear regression was used to quantify the factors of FSM adoption by smallholder farmers. The overall food safety index ranged between 59.97—60.75. A majority of farmers may be classified as moderate adopters of FSM (index ranging between 30–70%). Farm and farmers' characteristics such as herd size, farmer's education level, farmer's expertise in dairying, and participation of the farm in the formal milk value- chain, were shown to positively influence the level of adoption of FSM. Low farm-level adoption of FSM has food safety and public health implications as it can lead to milk contamination and, therefore, expose consumers to foodborne diseases. There is an imperative for policymakers to design and implement policies and intervention strategies that lead to increased farmer training related to livestock production and awareness of the important role that FSM adoption can play in improving food safety and public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A quantitative cross-sectional pilot study was conducted to determine dairy farmers' general awareness of vector-borne zoonotic diseases, i.e., dengue fever and chikungunya fever caused by alphavirus and mosquito-borne flavivirus, as well as the relationship between these and other demographic variables such as gender and education level. Materials and Methods: A total of 42 farmers from the Wayanad district of Kerala were surveyed using a well-structured KAP (Knowledge, Attitude and Practice) questionnaire. Results: The study revealed that farmers have inadequate knowledge and attitudes regarding chikungunya, as well as inadequate practices regarding dengue fever. Similarly, there is a significant correlation between gender and chikungunya fever awareness. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the need to increase awareness of these diseases among dairy farmers and emphasizes the significance of conducting additional research on the area and population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractSmallholder dairy farmers in Northern Uganda sell raw milk to the final consumers without conducting quality control measures. This study evaluated physico-chemical and microbiological quality of milk produced by smallholder farmers in Gulu City. Samples of raw milk were collected from forty (40) smallholder dairy farmers rearing lactating exotic breed of dairy cows (Holstein Friesian) in zero grazing units and eight (8) from milk collection centers. Data were analyzed in SPSS software (version 21.0) by employing descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA and t-test to separate significant means at 5% level of significance. Significant (P 0.05) difference in protein as well as fat content for milk sampled from the study divisions. In conclusion, smallholder dairy farmers in Gulu City conduct limited recommended key practices for raw milk production leading to compromised microbiological and physico-chemical quality. Further research is needed on in-depth analysis of the different species of micro-organisms in raw milk from both local and exotic breeds of dairy cattle under the smallholder farming system in Northern Uganda.

The excessive and irrational use of antibiotics to control bovine mastitis and the informal trade in milk with antibiotic residues are objects of great interest for public health, due to the problems associated with the consumption of milk with antibiotic residues on human, animal, and environmental health, and antibiotic resistance. The objective of this study was to understand the attitudes of dairy farmers towards the self-consumption of milk on the farm, the use of milk with antibiotic residues, and the formal and informal milk trade that generates risks for public health. Mixed methods: cross-sectional and grounded theory. Convergent triangulation design. The study was carried out in 9 dairy municipalities in the North of Antioquia, where 216 dairy farmers participated in the quantitative component; and 17 milk producers and 9 veterinarians took part in the qualitative component. A dairy farmer characterization survey was conducted, as well as a survey on the use and marketing of milk from cows with udder health problems and/or under antibiotic treatment. Semistructured interviews were conducted on the same subject. The variable "Intention to sell milk in the village when the dairy industry does not buy it due to high BTSCC" is associated with the BTSCC variable. The variable "Type of marketing reported" is associated with the CFU variable. 5 categories: self-consumption of milk, use of milk with antibiotics, informal milk trade, control of the dairy industry, and beliefs about the elimination of antibiotics in milk, were constructed to theorize about udder health and public health. Sociocultural, political, and economic factors affect decision making in dairy farmers regarding the use and marketing of milk from cows with mastitis and antibiotic residues. These attitudes and behaviors have public health implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Comprehending the correlation between body conformation traits of cows at the early stages of lactation and prevalent lactation diseases might facilitate the execution of selection and feeding strategies that prioritize cow health. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of body conformation traits on the incidence of clinical mastitis and lameness in Chinese Holstein cows. From a pasture herd of 1472 early lactating Chinese Holstein cows, we evaluated 20 body conformation traits. During lactation, this pasture herd was visited weekly to gather clinical mastitis and lameness data. A nine-point scale was used to determine the conformation traits of cows to clarify their linear characters, including frame capacity, rump (RU), feet and leg (FL), mammary system (MS), and dairy character. A longitudinal binary disease (0 = healthy; 1 = diseased) data structure was created by allocating disease records to adjacent official test dates. The impact of body conformation traits on the risk of developing diseases (clinical mastitis and lameness) was analyzed using the logistic regression models. Results: Compared to cows with low total scores (75–79 points), those with high total scores (80–85 points) of body conformation traits had a significantly lower risk of mastitis (P < 0.001). The disease status (0 or 1: binary variable) of clinical mastitis in lactating cows was significantly impacted negatively by age (P < 0.05). The fore udder attachment (FUA), angularity, rear attachment height (RAH), and rear teat placement (RTP) were all significantly associated with clinical mastitis during lactation (P < 0.05). The rear leg-rear view (RLRV) was significantly correlated with correlated considerably (P < 0.05) with lameness during lactation. An ideal score of four points on the lameness risk dimension of the RLRV may indicate a low risk of lameness. Since the risk of mastitis decreased as this trait score increased, the RTP may be an ideal marker for mastitis risk. Conclusions: According to the study, clinical mastitis and lameness risks in cows can be estimated using their body conformation traits. Cows with more centrally located rear teats have a lower risk of mastitis. These results may help dairy farmers identify cows at high risk of disease early in lactation and aid in breeding for disease resistance in cows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the factors influencing the adoption of animal welfare-enhancing technologies among Finnish dairy farmers. It highlights financial issues, personal challenges, and device operation problems as the main barriers to adoption. The study emphasizes the importance of support from trusted groups and evidence of functionality to promote adoption. It also stresses the need to consider the financial situation of farms, appropriate technological devices, animal welfare, and human well-being when making adoption decisions. The article presents the results of a survey that used the Theory of Planned Behavior as a framework to understand adoption decisions. It found positive attitudes towards animal welfare and technology, with veterinarians, other milk producers, and professional magazines as important sources of advice. Lack of financial resources and personal capacity were identified as barriers. The study underscores the importance of considering attitudes, constraints, and trusted information sources when guiding farmers' investment decisions. The text also discusses the potential benefits of Precision Livestock Farming in creating sustainable and efficient animal production systems. It highlights the use of sensors and control mechanisms to collect data on animal physiology, behavior, and position, which can improve animal welfare. The adoption of precision technologies in larger dairy farms in Australia and the role of veterinarians as advisors for animal health care are also mentioned. Financial constraints, personal capacity, and device operation problems are identified as barriers to adoption. The text emphasizes the need for further research on animal welfare-enhancing technologies and the importance of considering farmers' well-being and profitability in adoption decisions. Lastly, the given text provides a comprehensive [Extracted from the article]

Foodborne zoonosis is a longstanding global issue that limits and continues to threaten the food production industry and public health in several countries. The study's objective was to evaluate the dairy farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices about milk-borne pathogens in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa. A total of 139 dairy farmers were interviewed using a semi-structured online questionnaire. The pathogens of interest were Brucella spp., Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Cryptosporidium. Only 20.9% of dairy farmers reported knowledge of Brucella spp. as a milk-borne pathogen. The most known pathogen was E. coli (54.7%), followed by Listeria spp. (41.0%), Staphylococcus spp. (38.8%), and Salmonella spp. (35.3%). In this study, knowledge of milk-borne pathogens was statistically associated (p<0.05) with workplace position. Only a few participants (37.2%) showed knowledge of abortion as an important clinical sign of foodborne pathogens. Also, 84.1% of dairy farmers indicated that they consume unpasteurized milk and sour milk (77%). Some respondents (18.0%) do not believe assisting a cow during calving difficulty without wearing gloves is a risk factor for zoonosis. Knowledge assessment is essential in developing countries that have experienced a foodborne outbreak, such as South Africa. There is an urgent need to educate dairy farmers about milk-borne zoonosis to minimize the threat to food security and public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dairying is an integral part of farming system of India. In 2019-20, milk production in Punjab was 13,347 thousand tonnes and growth rate was about 5.60 per cent per annum. Milk production is only profitable if there are proper marketing facilities. The objective of the present study is analyzing the determinants that affect the choice of milk marketing channels by the dairy farmers of Punjab. Methods: The present study is based on primary data, collected through a detailed schedule from 420 dairy farmers in 2019 belonging to different farm size categories from 21 villages situated across three different agro-climatic zones of Punjab state of India, using a multi-stage sampling technique. Binary Logistic Model has been used for the purpose of analysis. Result: The significant variables affecting the choice of milk marketing channels by the dairy farmers are found to be the presence of milk collection centre in the village and herd size of the dairy farmer. The value of Cox and Snell R-square indicates that around 17.00 per cent of the variations in the choice of marketing channels are attributed to the variations in the explanatory variables included in the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an innovative approach for supplier selection (SS) within the Tunisian dairy industry, with a specific focus on sustainability and resilience. The proposed method is a hybrid model that integrates multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) with fuzzy logic. Initially, twelve distinct criteria are identified, categorized into social, environmental, economic, and resilience indexes through a combination of literature review and expert input. To establish the importance of these criteria, a fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) is employed to calculate their weights. These weights are then integrated into a new method called fuzzy multi-attribute border approximation area comparison (FMABAC) to rank the suppliers. The methodology aims to provide decision-makers with a more intuitive means of expressing their preferences and evaluating supplier criteria, ultimately identifying the most effective dairy farmers. The research concludes by evaluating the results through two sensitivity analyses: one involving varying criteria weights and the other involving a comparative assessment with alternative fuzzy MCDM techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]