Partnership pioneers sustainable, genetic-based dairy farming

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Zoetis, the animal health developer, has announced a new partnership with Danone, a company behind dairy, plant-based, water, and specialized nutrition brands, with the purpose of driving sustainable practices on dairy farms, using genetics to ensure healthier cows.¹ The collaboration will combine Danone’s environmental experience with Zoetis’ animal genetics experience. Danone will gain access to Zoetis’ genetic technologies across the world. The companies’ shared goals are to integrate sustainable practices into dairy genetics and selection. They will emphasize the wellbeing of the animals, reduce their environmental impact, and promote long-term growth.

“Collaborative partnerships allow us to harmonize genetic innovation with sustainable practices,” Wafaa Mamilli, EVP, chief digital and technology officer, group president for China, Brazil, and Precision Animal Health at Zoetis, said in a news release.¹ “Through our partnership with Danone, we intend to leverage our respective expertise to set new benchmarks for healthier herds that contribute to a sustainable future for the dairy industry.”

Zoetis’ genetic testing solutions allow for accurate predictions of an animal’s susceptibility to costly diseases, in addition to the potential that the animals will remain healthy and productive during their lifetime. Danone will be able to leverage these tools, supporting dairy production, and prioritizing environmental resiliency.^1,3

According to the release, Zoetis became a part of Danone’s global “Partner for Growth” program in 2023. The company entered the program as the preferred provider for genetic testing on dairy farms on account of their Dairy Wellness Profit Index (DWP$) from CLARIFIDE Plus.² DWP$ is a multi-trait animal ranking selection index that calculates and reveals the value of critical wellness traits in cattle.^2,3 These traits include cow and calf wellness, production, fertility, functional type, longevity, livability, calving ability, and milk quality traits, in addition to polled test results. The tool allows Zoetis to accurately estimate the potential total lifetime profit that Holstein and Jersey cattle could contribute to a given dairy operation.

“We really look forward to embarking with Zoetis on this journey,” Jean-Yves Krummenacher chief procurement officer at Danone, said.¹ “Together, we are committed to utilizing genomic testing as an important tool for incorporating sustainability at its core. This partnership aligns with our vision of creating positive change throughout the dairy value chain.”

A 2022 update to Zoetis’ innovative genetic technology incorporated new traits that impact lifetime profitability, including first calving and residual feed intake. The company also increased the economic values of fat, protein, and milk, along with cow and calf wellness traits, in a matter that reflected current and projected prices faced by dairy farmers.³

The incorporation of this technology into breeding and culling decisions ensures future generations of biologically resilient cattle, capable of higher lifetime profit. The partnership allows for the wider adoption of the technology, and aspires to positively impact the environment, increased the longevity of cattle, improve farm resilience, and meet increased consumer demand for sustainably sourced dairy products.¹

References

1. Zoetis and Danone Announce Strategic Partnership to Pioneer Sustainable Innovation in Dairy Farming Using the Power of Genetics. News release. Zoetis. September 26, 2024. Accessed September 30, 2024. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240925718835/en/Zoetis-and-Danone-Announce-Strategic-Partnership-to-Pioneer-Sustainable-Innovation-in-Dairy-Farming-Using-the-Power-of-Genetics
2. Dairy Wellness Profit Index enhancements for profitable genetic selection and helping sustainable practices. Zoetis. Accessed September 30, 2024.
3. Championing a Healthy, Sustainable Future Through Genomic Testing. Zoetis. 2022. Accessed September 30, 2024.