Socioeconomic determinants of small and medium-sized dairy farms in the Ecuador-Colombia border area.

The socioeconomic factors influencing small-scale dairy producers in the border area between Ecuador and Colombia were meticulously identified. Employing a non-experimental design, the study leveraged multivariate statistical analysis to discern key determinants. Data processing was executed using the statistical software SPSS v27, facilitating comprehensive analysis. A random survey was administered to 532 small and medium-scale dairy producers in the Carchi province of Ecuador, employing a structured questionnaire supplemented with a Likert scale for nuanced insights. Based on 35 original variables, seven determining factors were identified in dairy farms: political representation, adequate housing, equipment, innovation, empathy, profitability, social welfare, which combined explain 60.95% of the system's variability. Such factors affect production, the level of household income, as well as their effect on the standard of living of households. Three groups were formed, the first with a low perception of economic development (Traditionalists 33.3%); the second with a better expectation of economic development (Modernizers 27.6%); and the third, identified with greater economic development (Innovators 10.3%). Each group presents cases with a low to high standard of living perspective. The groups have peculiarities in terms of their performance that can be applied to the entire population. A significant relation was established between socioeconomic factors and standard of living.

Estimation of the economic impact of heat stress on the Chilean dairy regions by using two comfort thermal indices.

The study aimed to estimate economic losses associated with heat stress in the eight dairy production regions (DPR), defined by the Dairy Chilean Consortium, using two comfort thermal indices, namely, the temperature-humidity index (THI) and the THI adjusted for solar radiation and wind speed (THIa). Hourly records from 19 weather stations (Nov - Mar 2017-2022) were collected to estimate the comfort thermal indices. The economic impact was estimated considering a critical threshold of 65 for both indices and the effect of higher values on loss in milk yield, days open, culling rate, and deaths. There were differences in the number of hours above the threshold among DPRs, independent of the thermal index used (P < 0.01). The greatest values were observed in DPRs I, II, and VIII, which concentrate most dairy cows. Average losses in milk yield were between 2.0 and 6.4 times higher when THIa was used instead of THI, which also depends on the DPR (P < 0.01). These estimations coincide with those observed empirically by producers. The lowest average economic losses per cow during the summer season (5 seasons average) occurred in DPR VI (US $ 91.5), and the highest losses were observed in DPR I (US $ 184.2) both using THIa. At the country level, economic losses fluctuate between US $ 29.0 and 108.4 million per summer season, depending on the comfort thermal index used. Finally, heat stress impacts negatively and significantly the Chilean dairy sector, which is highly dependent on the DPR.

Inputs-Oriented VRS DEA in dairy farms.

Background: This paper aims to examine the efficiency of Mexico's dairy farms within its four regions of Tlaxcala Stated. Methods: The Envelopment Data Analysis (DEA) applied to the variable returns to a scale model (VRS) for the year 2020. Also, Examine the statistical accuracy of efficiency estimation using bootstrap resampling techniques. The results reveal that Tlaxcala's dairy farm efficiency, on the other hand, was adversely influenced by three inputs (costs): cost of investment in livestock, the total annual cost for feeding, reproduction, diseases and treatments, preventive medicine, sanitation, milking, fuel, and total labor. Results: The efficiency distribution among farms using VRS, CRS, and FDH technologies reveals varying patterns. Under VRS and CRS, the majority of farms exhibit high efficiency within the 0 to less than 0.2 range, while FDH displays a broader distribution, with notable efficiency at 1 and across various ranges. These findings highlight the diverse landscape of efficiency levels across different technological approaches within the agricultural sector, offering valuable insights for optimization strategies and resource allocation. Conclusions: The utilization of Bootstrap methodology enhances the reliability of efficiency assessments by providing robust statistical techniques that accommodate non-normal data distributions. By incorporating Bootstrap, decision-makers can obtain more accurate estimates of efficiency levels and confidence intervals, thereby making informed decisions regarding resource allocation and optimization strategies within the agricultural sector. As part of the study, provided The Policy suggestions.

Effect of milk production scale on the economic return of dairy farmers in the Triângulo Mineiro/Alto Paranaíba mesoregion / Efeito da escala de produção de leite na rentabilidade de pecuaristas leiteiros da mesorregião do Triâgulo Mineiro e Alto Paranaíba

This study proposes to evaluate the relationship between the economic return of dairy production and its scales. Economic and production data were collected from 28 dairy farms located in the Triângulo Mineiro/Alto Paranaíba mesoregion, MG, Brazil. The farms were stratified into three scales of milk production: small (less than 150 kg), medium (151 to 400 kg), and large (over 400 kg). Data collected between January and December 2013 were analyzed statistically using SPSS 27.0 software, considering a minimum significance level of 95% (P < 0.05). Gross Margin, Net Margin, and Outcome were used as indicators of return. Among the fixed costs, depreciation corresponded to 16.56, 15.90, and 12.54% of total costs for the small, medium, and large producers, respectively. Among the variable costs, feeding accounted for 26.26, 34.94, and 44.58% of total costs on the small, medium, and large farms, respectively. Only the large-scale producers had positive outcomes (BRL 27,010.73), whereas the small and medium producers had losses (BRL -28,615.21 and BRL -18,233.83, respectively). In conclusion, increasing the scale of production positively influences the economic return of dairy farming.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar a relação entre a rentabilidade da atividade leiteira e suas escalas de produção. Para isso, foram levantados dados econômicos e produtivos de 28 propriedades leiteiras localizadas na mesorregião do Triângulo Mineiro/Alto Paranaíba, MG. As propriedades leiteiras foram estratificadas em três escalas de produção: pequena (inferior a 150 kg), média (entre 151 a 400kg) e grande (acima de 400 kg). Os dados coletados entre janeiro a dezembro de 2013 foram analisados estatisticamente através do software SPSS 27.0, considerando-se nível mínimo de significância de 95% (P < 0,05). Foram utilizados como indicadores de rentabilidade a Margem Bruta, a Margem Líquida e o Resultado. Dentre os custos fixos, a depreciação correspondeu a 16,56%, 15,90% e 12,54% dos custos totais para pequenos, médios e grandes produtores, respectivamente. Dentre os custos variáveis, a alimentação representou 26,26%, 34,94% e 44,58% dos custos totais para pequenos, médios e grandes produtores, respectivamente. Somente os grandes produtores apresentaram resultados positivos (R$27.010,73), enquanto que os pequenos e médios produtores obtiveram prejuízos (-R$28.615,21 e -R$18.233,83, respectivamente). Conclui-se que o aumento da escala de produção influencia positivamente a rentabilidade da pecuária leiteira.(AU)

Profile of milk consumers and determinants of A2A2 milk consumption in the Tocantins State / Perfil dos consumidores de leite e fatores determinantes do consumo de leite A2A2 no estado do Tocantin

The dairy industry diversifies products with organoleptic, dietary, functional, and nutritional properties according to consumer demands and welfare. This study aimed to examine the profile of consumers, data on milk consumption, knowledge, and familiarity with A2A2 milk in the Tocantins State, Brazil. A qualitative survey was carried out through a questionnaire applied to 389 people, distributed in 34 municipalities. Regarding the consumption of dairy products, 21.31% of participants described having some type of discomfort when consuming them. Among participants, 46.27% consumed one to two liters, 28.28% two to four liters, and 25.45% more than four liters per week. Milk was the main dairy product consumed, according to 59.13% of participants. Of all respondents, 76.10% pay little or no attention to the information on the label, versus 23.90% who did not. Regarding A2A2 milk, 40.36% possessed some knowledge about it, while 59.64% did not. 42.93% and 30.59% of participants stated they would be willing to pay over 10% or 50% more, respectively, whereas 24.94% would not pay any additional amount on the price of A2A2 milk. Willingness to pay a low additional amount was related to consumers who heard of, but knew little about this product, whereas the likelihood of paying higher additional amounts was associated with respondents who heard and know about the product.(AU)

Atualmente, a indústria láctea diversifica produtos com propriedades organolépticas, dietéticas, funcionais e nutricionais em função de demandas do consumidor e do bem-estar. Assim, objetivou-se estudar o perfil dos consumidores, incluindo dados de consumo de leite, conhecimento e familiaridade com o leite A2A2 no estado do Tocantins. Foi realizado uma pesquisa qualitativa, através de questionário, com 389 pessoas distribuídas em 34 municípios no Tocantins. Em relação ao consumo de lácteos, 21,31% apresentam algum tipo de desconforto ao consumirem, e, 46,27% possuem um consumo semanal de um a dois litros, 28,28% entre dois a quatro litros e 25,45% com consumo superior a quatro litros, sendo o leite o principal produto lácteo consumido por 59,13% dos entrevistados. Dos entrevistados, 76,10% tem pouca ou nenhuma atenção às informações do rótulo contra 23,90% que possuem muita atenção, e 40,63% e 59,64% detinham ou não algum conhecimento sobre leite A2A2, respectivamente. Foi observado que 42,93% e 30,59% estariam dispostos a pagar mais de 10% ou mais de 50%, respectivamente, e 24,94% revelaram não pagar nenhum acréscimo sobre o valor para o leite A2A2. No entanto, a capacidade de consumo está diretamente ligada ao nível de conhecimento e familiaridade sobre leite A2A2, ou seja, pagar um valor adicional baixo demonstrou relação com consumidores que possuem conhecimento sobre, mas conhecem pouco esse produto, enquanto que pagar valores adicionais maiores esteve relacionado com entrevistados que ouviram falar e conhecem sobre o produto.(AU)

Frontier model of the environmental inefficiency effects on livestock bioeconomy.

Background: This work was focused on measuring environmental inefficiency in Mexican dairy farms, considering climate change variables related to the emission of greenhouse gases (GHG) and planetary geomagnetic activity. Methods: The applied methodology measures the eco-efficiency of Mexican dairy farms using the empirical application of a stochastic frontier model of the bioeconomy. The productive sector of the bioeconomy studied was the eco-intensification of the livestock production system (dairies). The environmental inefficiency effect was assumed to be a distribution-independent truncation of a normal distribution with constant variance, while the mean was a linear environmental function of the observable variable. Results: The results showed that the coefficients of the frontier model were highly significant, highlighting the investment in livestock (50%). The inefficiency model had an impact on climate variation with greenhouse gas emissions CH4 (1.96%). The results of the environmental technical efficiency in geometric average were 81.28%. The producers that reached the border with a technical efficiency equal to 1 are the references for the rest, marking the relative technical efficiency. Conclusions: It was concluded that the coefficients in the model were very significant, showing the level of investment in livestock (50%). The low-performance model estimates the impact of climate change on GHG emissions CH4 (1.96%) explaining the trend of increasing GHG emissions, keeping in view that the management of food and cattle during the study period were affected by summer feeding, which allowed considering the activity of GHG emissions. According to the results, the geometric mean environmental performance of engineering is 81.28%.

Sustainability indicators for Brazilian dairy livestock: the perception of professionals in the sector

The objective of this study was to analyze the perceptions of professionals in relation to the importance of indicators used to assess the sustainability of Brazilian dairy cattle. A survey method was used through a questionnaire. The target audience was professionals related to dairy cattle: researchers, professors, consultants, farmers, and other professionals. The total number of respondents to the survey was 347. Cluster analysis resulted in the formation of four distinct groups: G1 ("Holistic"), participants agreed that all indicators are very important or, at least, important; G2 ("Technician") considered the indicators important and desirable, except for some environmental indicators which were assessed as non-priority and expendable; G3 ("Socioenvironmentalist") assessed the indicators as desirable, but environmental indicators received more importance; and G4 ("Skeptic") generally believed that indicators were non-priority and expendable. The groups showed significant differences in relation to knowledge about technical, economic, social, and environmental aspects of dairy cattle. More than 60% of professionals consider milk production per area, reproductive index, production costs, profit from the activity, milk quality, quality of life of the producer and employees, succession, protection of water courses, and soil management as very important indicators of the sustainability of dairy cattle. On the other hand, important environmental indicators such as emissions of gases and substances, energy use, nutrient balance, and land use were neglected by most respondents. These results can help select and implement policies and strategies for decision making, aiming at producing milk in a more sustainable way.(AU)

Economic impact and epidemiological aspects of subclinical mastitis and caprine arthritis-encephalitis in the semiarid northeastern region of Brazil / Impacto econômico e aspectos epidemiológicos da mastite e artrite encefalite caprina na região semiárida do Nordeste Brasileiro

Dairy activity in the semi-arid region has gained prominence due to its profit potential; however, there are still sanitary problems that result in significant economic impact. Thus, this study aimed to assess the economic impact and to conduct an epidemiological study of caprine arthritis-encephalitis (CAE) and subclinical mastitis in dairy goat herds of the semi-arid northeastern region of Brazil. The study proceeded with the collection of blood (n = 351) and milk samples (n = 321) from 15 rural properties with up to 50 animals, risk factor assessment, economic profile analysis, and georeferencing of the properties. The blood serum obtained was subjected to the AGID test. The milk samples were cultured on blood agar, and the reading was performed 24 hours after incubation. Overall, 3.4% of the animals were seropositive for CAE, and 15.8% were diagnosed with subclinical mastitis. 71.95% of the positive animals belonged to properties with a semi-intensive rearing system, weekly cleaning of the facilities, and no pre- or post-dipping. Subclinical mastitis caused by the main agent Staphylococcus spp. was associated with the breed type of the animals, highlighting two risk factors: purebred animals (OR = 12.52) and the milking performed close the soil (OR = 18.07). A reduction of up to 35.34% was observed in the income of dairy properties, constituting a considerable economic impact. Due to these sanitary problems, the economic impact demonstrates the need for a sanitary management program focused on these infirmities.(AU)

A atividade leiteira na região semiárida vem ganhando expressividade devido seu potencial lucrativo, no entanto, ainda existem problemas sanitários que ocasionam de grande impacto econômico. Assim, objetivou-se dimensionar o impacto econômico e realizar o estudo epidemiológico da artrite encefalite caprina (CAE) e mastite subclínica, nos rebanhos caprinos leiteiros do semiárido nordestino. A pesquisa seguiu-se com a coleta das amostras de sangue (n=351) e leite (n= 321), ava-liação dos fatores de risco, análise do perfil econômico das propriedades e georreferenciamento. O soro sanguíneo obtido foi submetido ao teste de IDGA. As amostras de leite foram semeadas em ágar sangue e a leitura realizada 24 horas após incuba-ção. No total, 3,4%, dos animais foram soropositivos para CAE e 15,8% diagnosticados com mastite subclínica. 71,95% dos animais positivos pertenciam a propriedades com sistema de criação semi-intensivo, limpeza das instalações semanalmente e sem realização de pré e pós dipping. A mastite subclínica causada pelo principal agente Staphylococcus spp. mostrou-se asso-ciada ao padrão racial dos animais, sendo observado dois fatores de risco: padrão racial puro (OR = 12,52) e ordenha no solo (OR = 18,07). A redução nas receitas das propriedades leiteiras foi de até 35,34%, portanto, um relevante impacto econômico. Pode-se constatar a circulação do vírus da CAE nas propriedades rurais visitadas, além da presença de patógenos causadores da mastite com importância na área da saúde pública. O impacto econômico gerado em função da presença desses proble-mas sanitários demonstra a necessidade da implantação de um programa de manejo sanitário com foco nessas enfermidades.(AU)

Economic impact and epidemiological aspects of subclinical mastitis and caprine arthritis-encephalitis in the semiarid northeastern region of Brazil / Impacto econômico e aspectos epidemiológicos da mastite e artrite encefalite caprina na região semiárida do Nordeste Brasileiro

Dairy activity in the semi-arid region has gained prominence due to its profit potential; however, there are still sanitary problems that result in significant economic impact. Thus, this study aimed to assess the economic impact and to conduct an epidemiological study of caprine arthritis-encephalitis (CAE) and subclinical mastitis in dairy goat herds of the semi-arid northeastern region of Brazil. The study proceeded with the collection of blood (n = 351) and milk samples (n = 321) from 15 rural properties with up to 50 animals, risk factor assessment, economic profile analysis, and georeferencing of the properties. The blood serum obtained was subjected to the AGID test. The milk samples were cultured on blood agar, and the reading was performed 24 hours after incubation. Overall, 3.4% of the animals were seropositive for CAE, and 15.8% were diagnosed with subclinical mastitis. 71.95% of the positive animals belonged to properties with a semi-intensive rearing system, weekly cleaning of the facilities, and no pre- or post-dipping. Subclinical mastitis caused by the main agent Staphylococcus spp. was associated with the breed type of the animals, highlighting two risk factors: purebred animals (OR = 12.52) and the milking performed close the soil (OR = 18.07). A reduction of up to 35.34% was observed in the income of dairy properties, constituting a considerable economic impact. Due to these sanitary problems, the economic impact demonstrates the need for a sanitary management program focused on these infirmities.

A atividade leiteira na região semiárida vem ganhando expressividade devido seu potencial lucrativo, no entanto, ainda existem problemas sanitários que ocasionam de grande impacto econômico. Assim, objetivou-se dimensionar o impacto econômico e realizar o estudo epidemiológico da artrite encefalite caprina (CAE) e mastite subclínica, nos rebanhos caprinos leiteiros do semiárido nordestino. A pesquisa seguiu-se com a coleta das amostras de sangue (n=351) e leite (n= 321), ava-liação dos fatores de risco, análise do perfil econômico das propriedades e georreferenciamento. O soro sanguíneo obtido foi submetido ao teste de IDGA. As amostras de leite foram semeadas em ágar sangue e a leitura realizada 24 horas após incuba-ção. No total, 3,4%, dos animais foram soropositivos para CAE e 15,8% diagnosticados com mastite subclínica. 71,95% dos animais positivos pertenciam a propriedades com sistema de criação semi-intensivo, limpeza das instalações semanalmente e sem realização de pré e pós dipping. A mastite subclínica causada pelo principal agente Staphylococcus spp. mostrou-se asso-ciada ao padrão racial dos animais, sendo observado dois fatores de risco: padrão racial puro (OR = 12,52) e ordenha no solo (OR = 18,07). A redução nas receitas das propriedades leiteiras foi de até 35,34%, portanto, um relevante impacto econômico. Pode-se constatar a circulação do vírus da CAE nas propriedades rurais visitadas, além da presença de patógenos causadores da mastite com importância na área da saúde pública. O impacto econômico gerado em função da presença desses proble-mas sanitários demonstra a necessidade da implantação de um programa de manejo sanitário com foco nessas enfermidades.

Motivations and attitudes of Brazilian dairy farmers regarding the use of automated behaviour recording and analysis systems.

In this Research Communication we investigate the motivations of Brazilian dairy farmers to adopt automated behaviour recording and analysis systems (ABRS) and their attitudes towards the alerts that are issued. Thirty-eight farmers participated in the study distributed into two groups, ABRS users (USERS, n = 16) and non-users (NON-USERS, n = 22). In the USERS group 16 farmers accepted being interviewed, answering a semi-structured interview conducted by telephone, and the answers were transcribed and codified. In the NON-USERS group, 22 farmers answered an online questionnaire. Descriptive analysis was applied to coded answers. Most farmers were young individuals under 40 years of age, with undergraduate or graduate degrees and having recently started their productive activities, after a family succession process. Herd size varied with an overall average of approximately 100 cows. Oestrus detection and cow's health monitoring were the main reasons given to invest in this technology, and cost was the most important factor that prevented farmers from purchasing ABRS. All farmers in USERS affirmed that they observed the target cows after receiving a health or an oestrus alert. Farmers believed that they were able to intervene in the evolution of the animals' health status, as the alerts gave a window of three to four days before the onset of clinical signs of diseases, anticipating the start of the treatment.The alerts issued by the monitoring systems helped farmers to reduce the number of cows to be observed and to identify pre-clinically sick and oestrous animals more easily. Difficulties in illness detection and lack of definite protocols impaired the decision making process and early treatment, albeit farmers believed ABRS improved the farm's routine and reproductive rates.

Herd-level associations between somatic cell counts and economic performance indicators in Brazilian dairy herds.

The aims of the present study were to provide a portrait of the techno-economic status of dairy herds in Minas Gerais, Brazil, particularly with respect to bulk-tank somatic cell count (BTSCC) data, and to examine the herd-level associations of BTSCC with various economic performance indicators (EPI). Data from 543 herds, 1,052 herd-year records in total, spread over 3 years (2015-2017), from the South and Southwest mesoregions of Minas Gerais State were provided by the Brazilian Support Agency to Micro and Small Companies Division Minas Gerais (SEBRAE). Herds had an average of 82 lactating cows per herd, milk yield of 17 L/cow per day, and availability of financial information via routine monthly economic surveys. The EPI data (revenue, gross margin, GM; net margin, NM; profit; break-even point; and operational profitability) of each herd was measured monthly by SEBRAE personnel, and herd-year averages of all variables were computed. Bulk-tank data (SCC, total bacterial count, content of crude protein and fat) taken by producers or dairy processors were recorded by SEBRAE personal; and corresponding herd-year averages were calculated and included in the SEBRAE database. There were 209 selected herds, which passed all edit checks, and which had data for all 3 years. The EPI (all expressed on a per-cow basis, $/cow per year) were analyzed, including the effects of region, year, log (ln) BTSCC, production level, and herd size, together with the random effect of herd nested within region. A high proportion of herds (94.6%) presented data records (herd-years) with an average BTSCC > 200 × 103 cells/mL: 37.8% of herd-year records had BTSCC between >200 and ≤400, 14.5% with BTSCC between >400 and ≤500, 25% with BTSCC between >500 and ≤750, and 17.3% with BTSCC >750. For each unit increase in ln BTSCC, revenue declined by $228.5/cow per year, GM by $155.6/cow per year, and profit by $138.6/cow per year. Herds with cows of lower production (<14 kg/d) presented lower GM ($286.8/cow per year) compared with herds containing cows producing ≥14 kg/d (≥14 and <19 kg/d = $446.5, and ≥19 kg/d = $601.9). The small-scale milk producers (<39 lactating cows) presented lower revenue ($1,914.9/cow per year) and GM ($274.5/cow per year) and consequently a negative profit (-$224.1/cow per year) compared with other herd size categories (≥39 lactating cows). The reduction in milk yield was 641 L/cow per lactation for each unit increase in ln BTSCC; this represented 9.4% of the milk yield per lactation, assuming an average milk production of 6,843.3 L/cow per lactation of cows from herds that had BTSCC ≤ 200 × 103 cells/mL. Consequently, we found a negative association of BTSCC with profit; profit declining from $227.0 to -53.1/cow per year when the BTSCC increased from 100 to 750 × 103 cell/mL. In short, the lower the BTSCC, the greater the revenue, GM and NM, profit, and operational profitability of the herds. The reduction of milk yield was the main factor associated with higher BTSCC.

Impact of environmentally friendly technologies on costs and cost-effectiveness of a dairy cattle confinement system / Impacto da adoção de tecnologias ambientalmente corretas no custo de produção do leite e na rentabilidade de um sistema de produção em confinamento total

We assessed the cost-effectiveness of the cost center of milk production and identified the components that most affect final costs, estimating a break-even point (kg milk year-¹) as well. The data were collected in a freestall full-confinement system of a dairy cattle farm located in southern Minas Gerais State (Brazil), from January 2016 to December 2017. The cost of milk production was estimated using a method based on the operating and total costs from a cost center involving lactating and dry dairy cows. The cost center of milk production showed to be economically feasible, showing positive gross and net margin results, as well as positive profitability and cost-effectiveness. Total environmental operating cost was on average R$ 0.015 per kg milk, which represented 1.985% of the total operating cost. Effective environmental operating cost was on average R$ 0.0059, which corresponded to 0.7788% of the total operating cost. Finally, total environmental cost was on average R$ 0.0317, representing 3.3280% of the total cost. The most representative items of the effective operating cost were in descending order: animal feed, workforce, animal health, animal production hormone (bovine somatotropin; bST), vehicle maintenance, machines and equipment, maintenance of improvements, electricity, and freestall bedding sand. Average break-even point was 1,104,038.54 kg milk year-¹ or 3,024.76 kg milk day-¹, while average production was 4,271,383.00 kg milk year-¹ and 11,702.42 kg milk day-¹.(AU)

Objetivou-se analisar o impacto econômico da adoção de algumas tecnologias ambientalmente corretas no custo de produção do leite e na rentabilidade de um sistema de produção, bem como estimar o custo ambiental e a sua representatividade no custo operacional efetivo, no custo operacional total e no custo total. Especificamente, pretendeu-se, ainda, analisar a rentabilidade do centro de custo produção de leite, identificar os componentes que exercem maiores representatividades sobre os custos finais da atividade e estimar o ponto de equilíbrio (kg de leite ano-¹). Os dados foram coletados no período de janeiro de 2016 a dezembro de 2017 em um sistema de produção de leite localizado ao Sul de Minas Gerais, em confinamento total, do tipo freestall. O custo de produção do leite foi estimado segundo a metodologia do custo operacional e custo total, considerando o centro de custo produção de leite, que envolveu as vacas em lactação e as secas. O centro de custo leite apresentou viabilidade econômica, com margens bruta e líquida, bem como resultado positivo, assim como lucratividade e rentabilidade positivas. O custo ambiental operacional total médio de um quilograma de leite foi estimado em R$ 0,015 e representou 1,985% do custo operacional total; o custo operacional efetivo ambiental médio foi de R$ 0,0059, e correspondeu a 0,7788% do custo operacional total; enquanto que o custo ambiental total médio, estimado em R$ 0,0317, representou 3,3280% do custo total. Os itens componentes do custo operacional efetivo que exerceram maiores representatividades foram, em ordem decrescente, a alimentação, mão-de-obra, sanidade, hormônio produtivo (BST), manutenção de veículos, máquinas e implementos, manutenção de benfeitorias, energia e areia para cama do free stall. O ponto de equilíbrio médio foi estimado em 1.104.038,54 kg de leite ano-¹, ou 3.024,76 kg de leite dia-¹, enquanto que a produção média foi de 4.271.383,00 kg de leite ano-¹ e 11.702,42 kg de leite dia-¹.(AU)

Factors affecting the price of raw milk in Turkey using panel data analysis / Fatores que afetam o preço do leite cru na Turquia usando análise de dados em painel

The high costs of feed among the total costs of raw milk production and an unfavorable milk-feed ratio directly affect the profitability of milk producers. To understand how the market in Turkey can be equilibrated, an exploration of the factors affecting milk prices is essential. This study determined the effects of the basic and the economic indicators on the price of raw milk between 2010 and 2019, by analyzing the monthly panel data. Since time series data are used, Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) and Phillips-Perron (PP) tests are conducted to find out whether the series is stationary. In order to see the individual effects, the parameters are estimated using the fixed and random-effects models. The Hausman test is conducted to decide which of the two models is valid. The basic indicators for milk price, namely, prices of barley, soybean meal, wheat and distillers dried grains with soluble (DDGS), and the economic indicators, namely, dollar exchange rate and agricultural producer price index (PPI) had significant (P < 0.05; P < 0.01) effects on the milk price. In conclusion, it is reported that the raw milk prices in Turkey are considerably affected by the prices of feed ingredients as well as the general economic conditions.(AU)

Os elevados custos da ração entre os custos totais para a produção de leite cru e uma relação leite-ração desfavorável afetam diretamente a lucratividade dos produtores de leite. Para entender como o mercado na Turquia pode ser equilibrado, é essencial explorar os fatores que afetam os preços do leite. Este estudo pretende determinar os efeitos dos indicadores básicos e econômicos sobre o preço do leite cru entre 2010 e 2019, por meio da análise de dados em painel mensal. Como os dados de série temporal são usados, os testes de Dickey-Fuller Aumentado (ADF) e Phillips-Perron (PP) são conduzidos para descobrir se a série é estacionária. Para ver os efeitos individuais, os parâmetros são estimados usando os modelos de efeitos fixos e aleatórios. O teste de Hausman é realizado para decidir qual dos dois modelos é válido. Encontram-se os indicadores básicos do preço do leite.Os preços da cevada, farelo de soja, trigo e grãos secos de destilaria com solúveis (DDGS), e os indicadores econômicos. A taxa de câmbio do dólar e o índice de preços ao produtor agrícola (PPI), ter efeitos significativos (P < 0,05; P < 0,01) no preço do leite. Em conclusão, verifica-se que os preços do leite cru na Turquia são consideravelmente afetados pelos preços dos ingredientes para rações, bem como pelas condições económicas gerais.(AU)

Factors affecting the price of raw milk in Turkey using panel data analysis / Fatores que afetam o preço do leite cru na Turquia usando análise de dados em painel

The high costs of feed among the total costs of raw milk production and an unfavorable milk-feed ratio directly affect the profitability of milk producers. To understand how the market in Turkey can be equilibrated, an exploration of the factors affecting milk prices is essential. This study determined the effects of the basic and the economic indicators on the price of raw milk between 2010 and 2019, by analyzing the monthly panel data. Since time series data are used, Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) and Phillips-Perron (PP) tests are conducted to find out whether the series is stationary. In order to see the individual effects, the parameters are estimated using the fixed and random-effects models. The Hausman test is conducted to decide which of the two models is valid. The basic indicators for milk price, namely, prices of barley, soybean meal, wheat and distillers dried grains with soluble (DDGS), and the economic indicators, namely, dollar exchange rate and agricultural producer price index (PPI) had significant (P < 0.05; P < 0.01) effects on the milk price. In conclusion, it is reported that the raw milk prices in Turkey are considerably affected by the prices of feed ingredients as well as the general economic conditions.

Os elevados custos da ração entre os custos totais para a produção de leite cru e uma relação leite-ração desfavorável afetam diretamente a lucratividade dos produtores de leite. Para entender como o mercado na Turquia pode ser equilibrado, é essencial explorar os fatores que afetam os preços do leite. Este estudo pretende determinar os efeitos dos indicadores básicos e econômicos sobre o preço do leite cru entre 2010 e 2019, por meio da análise de dados em painel mensal. Como os dados de série temporal são usados, os testes de Dickey-Fuller Aumentado (ADF) e Phillips-Perron (PP) são conduzidos para descobrir se a série é estacionária. Para ver os efeitos individuais, os parâmetros são estimados usando os modelos de efeitos fixos e aleatórios. O teste de Hausman é realizado para decidir qual dos dois modelos é válido. Encontram-se os indicadores básicos do preço do leite.Os preços da cevada, farelo de soja, trigo e grãos secos de destilaria com solúveis (DDGS), e os indicadores econômicos. A taxa de câmbio do dólar e o índice de preços ao produtor agrícola (PPI), ter efeitos significativos (P < 0,05; P < 0,01) no preço do leite. Em conclusão, verifica-se que os preços do leite cru na Turquia são consideravelmente afetados pelos preços dos ingredientes para rações, bem como pelas condições económicas gerais.

Impact of environmentally friendly technologies on costs and cost-effectiveness of a dairy cattle confinement system / Impacto da adoção de tecnologias ambientalmente corretas no custo de produção do leite e na rentabilidade de um sistema de produção em confinamento total

We assessed the cost-effectiveness of the cost center of milk production and identified the components that most affect final costs, estimating a break-even point (kg milk year-¹) as well. The data were collected in a freestall full-confinement system of a dairy cattle farm located in southern Minas Gerais State (Brazil), from January 2016 to December 2017. The cost of milk production was estimated using a method based on the operating and total costs from a cost center involving lactating and dry dairy cows. The cost center of milk production showed to be economically feasible, showing positive gross and net margin results, as well as positive profitability and cost-effectiveness. Total environmental operating cost was on average R$ 0.015 per kg milk, which represented 1.985% of the total operating cost. Effective environmental operating cost was on average R$ 0.0059, which corresponded to 0.7788% of the total operating cost. Finally, total environmental cost was on average R$ 0.0317, representing 3.3280% of the total cost. The most representative items of the effective operating cost were in descending order: animal feed, workforce, animal health, animal production hormone (bovine somatotropin; bST), vehicle maintenance, machines and equipment, maintenance of improvements, electricity, and freestall bedding sand. Average break-even point was 1,104,038.54 kg milk year-¹ or 3,024.76 kg milk day-¹, while average production was 4,271,383.00 kg milk year-¹ and 11,702.42 kg milk day-¹.

Objetivou-se analisar o impacto econômico da adoção de algumas tecnologias ambientalmente corretas no custo de produção do leite e na rentabilidade de um sistema de produção, bem como estimar o custo ambiental e a sua representatividade no custo operacional efetivo, no custo operacional total e no custo total. Especificamente, pretendeu-se, ainda, analisar a rentabilidade do centro de custo produção de leite, identificar os componentes que exercem maiores representatividades sobre os custos finais da atividade e estimar o ponto de equilíbrio (kg de leite ano-¹). Os dados foram coletados no período de janeiro de 2016 a dezembro de 2017 em um sistema de produção de leite localizado ao Sul de Minas Gerais, em confinamento total, do tipo freestall. O custo de produção do leite foi estimado segundo a metodologia do custo operacional e custo total, considerando o centro de custo produção de leite, que envolveu as vacas em lactação e as secas. O centro de custo leite apresentou viabilidade econômica, com margens bruta e líquida, bem como resultado positivo, assim como lucratividade e rentabilidade positivas. O custo ambiental operacional total médio de um quilograma de leite foi estimado em R$ 0,015 e representou 1,985% do custo operacional total; o custo operacional efetivo ambiental médio foi de R$ 0,0059, e correspondeu a 0,7788% do custo operacional total; enquanto que o custo ambiental total médio, estimado em R$ 0,0317, representou 3,3280% do custo total. Os itens componentes do custo operacional efetivo que exerceram maiores representatividades foram, em ordem decrescente, a alimentação, mão-de-obra, sanidade, hormônio produtivo (BST), manutenção de veículos, máquinas e implementos, manutenção de benfeitorias, energia e areia para cama do free stall. O ponto de equilíbrio médio foi estimado em 1.104.038,54 kg de leite ano-¹, ou 3.024,76 kg de leite dia-¹, enquanto que a produção média foi de 4.271.383,00 kg de leite ano-¹ e 11.702,42 kg de leite dia-¹.

Management practices that influence the welfare of calves on small family farms.

In this Research Reflection we review management practices in small family farms with less than 100 cows. Small farms represent the majority of farms in the EU and the world, and they are of great importance for the economy of a country. On cattle farms, the welfare of calves is of primary importance for the profitability of the herd, and poor management is one of the main factors influencing calf health and survival. Data on the risk factors for calf welfare issues in small-scale farms are limited. For this purpose, the literature data from six world countries were presented and compared, including Serbia and Slovenia where a survey related to the issue was carried out within the COST Action FA1308, DairyCare. Some practices within the following areas in calf management were considered: calving management, care for new-born calves, use of painful procedures, colostrum management, cow-calf separation, calf feeding, weaning, calf housing, and general monitoring. In each of the countries, the health and welfare of calves are threatened by some omissions in rearing practices and the major are related to the new-born calf management, the feeding and watering management, and the application of hygienic measures. Many farmers are well aware of the importance of proper calf rearing; others would need more incentive to improve calf management. Each country should pay attention to the education of farmers about the most common deficiencies in calf management.

Milk production and estimated enteric methane emission from cows grazing ryegrass pastures in small-scale dairy systems in Mexico.

The work assessed the productive response and estimated enteric methane (CH4) emissions of dairy cows grazing in small-scale dairy systems. Treatments were grazing annual pasture (AP) mainly of annual ryegrass and perennial pasture (PP) mainly of perennial ryegrass, complemented daily with 3.72 kg DM/cow of commercial concentrate. Eight Holstein cows were used in a double cross-over design with three 14-day-each experimental periods for animal variables and CH4 emissions. Pasture variables were analysed with a split-plot design. AP showed higher sward height (P < 0.05) with no differences (P > 0.05) in net herbage accumulation or in herbage chemical composition. Cows on AP yielded 24.6% more milk (P < 0.001) than grazing PP, but there were no differences in milk fat and protein content. There were differences (P ≤ 0.05) among periods for milk yields, but no differences among periods for milk fat and protein. Milk urea nitrogen was significantly higher (P < 0.001) in PP than in AP with no differences among periods. There was higher (P < 0.001) DMI for AP than PP with a significant decline (P < 0.05) as periods progressed. There was a trend (P = 0.08) for higher daily CH4/cow in AP, but significantly lower emissions (7.2%) in AP/kg DMI, and 20.1% lower emission intensity of g CH4/kg milk. The proportion of gross energy lost as CH4 for AP was lower (P < 0.01). Higher milk yields in AP resulted in a 26% higher margin over feed costs than for PP. Results show that grazing annual pastures with moderate concentrate supplementation results in higher milk yields, higher incomes, and reduces the intensity of CH4 emissions.

Adverse effects of foot-and-mouth disease vaccine in dairy cattle / Efeitos adversos da vacina contra febre aftosa em bovinos de leite

Foot-and-mouth disease represents an important barrier to the international commerce of animal products, potentially associated with significant economic losses. The systematic vaccination of bovines and buffaloes was fundamental for the eradication of this disease; however, the use of vaccines can lead to reactions at the application site. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of the vaccination protocol to the production of dairy cows and to observe the occurrence of vaccinal reactions in the animals. At one property located in the municipality of Salvador do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, 270 dairy cows were vaccinated against foot-and-mouth disease in May 2019. The vaccine was administered via a subcutaneous application using disposable syringes and needles for each animal. Inspection of the animals was performed before and 20 days after the vaccination to verify the presence of reactions to the vaccine. The study's sample was set by convenience, including 203 lactating animals with or without bovine somatotropin (BST) administration during the data collection period, which was limited to 20 days before and 20 days after the vaccination. Milk production data was obtained through SmartDairy® HerdMetrix™ software, tabulated in electronic spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel® and processed using the program SAS®, considering a 5% significance level for mixed model statistical analysis. A total of 160 animals (78.82%) presented local lesions at the application site, even when the recommended vaccination practices were followed, suggesting that the high reaction power was provoked by the vaccinal components. In regards to milk production, a statistically significant (p<0.05) decrease of 0.30kg of milk per animal/day was observed in the average daily production in the 20 days post-vaccination. These results demonstrate the local and systemic effects caused by the foot-and-mouth disease vaccine, evidenced by reduced levels of milk production and the occurrence of vaccine reactions, implying significant economic losses.(AU)

A febre aftosa representa uma importante barreira no comércio internacional de produtos de origem animal, podendo acarretar em significativas perdas econômicas. A vacinação sistemática de bovinos e bubalinos foi fundamental para a erradicação da doença. No entanto, a utilização de vacinas pode causar reações no local da aplicação. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da vacina em bovinos leiteiros e observar a incidência de reações vacinais no local de aplicação. O estudo foi realizado numa propriedade leiteira do município de Salvador do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, onde foram vacinados 270 bovinos contra febre aftosa no mês de maio de 2019. A vacina foi administrada por via subcutânea, com seringas e agulhas descartáveis para cada animal. Foi realizada inspeção dos animais antes da vacinação e 21 dias após a vacinação, para verificar a presença de reações vacinais. A amostra foi definida por conveniência, incluindo 203 vacas em lactação com ou sem administração de somatotropina bovina (BST) durante o período de coleta de dados, que l foi de 20 dias antes e 20 dias após a vacinação. Estes dados de produção de leite foram obtidos através do software SmartDairy® HerdMetrix™, tabulados em planilhas eletrônicas do Microsoft Excel® e processados usando o programa SAS®, considerando 5% de nível de significância para uma análise estatística modelo misto. Foi observado que 160 (78,82%) vacas apresentaram lesões no local de aplicação, mesmo quando a aplicação era realizada de acordo com as boas práticas de vacinação, o que indica o alto poder de reação provocada pelos componentes da vacina. Em relação à produção de leite, observou-se uma redução significativa (p<0,05) na produção média diária de 0,30kg de leite por animal/dia nos 21 dias após a vacinação. Esses resultados demonstram os efeitos locais e sistêmicos provocados pela vacina da febre aftosa, evidenciados pela redução na produção de leite e pela incidência de reações vacinais, o que implica em significativas perdas econômicas.(AU)

Adverse effects of foot-and-mouth disease vaccine in dairy cattle / Efeitos adversos da vacina contra febre aftosa em bovinos de leite

Foot-and-mouth disease represents an important barrier to the international commerce of animal products, potentially associated with significant economic losses. The systematic vaccination of bovines and buffaloes was fundamental for the eradication of this disease; however, the use of vaccines can lead to reactions at the application site. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of the vaccination protocol to the production of dairy cows and to observe the occurrence of vaccinal reactions in the animals. At one property located in the municipality of Salvador do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, 270 dairy cows were vaccinated against foot-and-mouth disease in May 2019. The vaccine was administered via a subcutaneous application using disposable syringes and needles for each animal. Inspection of the animals was performed before and 20 days after the vaccination to verify the presence of reactions to the vaccine. The study's sample was set by convenience, including 203 lactating animals with or without bovine somatotropin (BST) administration during the data collection period, which was limited to 20 days before and 20 days after the vaccination. Milk production data was obtained through SmartDairy® HerdMetrix™ software, tabulated in electronic spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel® and processed using the program SAS®, considering a 5% significance level for mixed model statistical analysis. A total of 160 animals (78.82%) presented local lesions at the application site, even when the recommended vaccination practices were followed, suggesting that the high reaction power was provoked by the vaccinal components. In regards to milk production, a statistically significant (p<0.05) decrease of 0.30kg of milk per animal/day was observed in the average daily production in the 20 days post-vaccination. These results demonstrate the local and systemic effects caused by the foot-and-mouth disease vaccine, evidenced by reduced levels of milk production and the occurrence of vaccine reactions, implying significant economic losses.(AU)

A febre aftosa representa uma importante barreira no comércio internacional de produtos de origem animal, podendo acarretar em significativas perdas econômicas. A vacinação sistemática de bovinos e bubalinos foi fundamental para a erradicação da doença. No entanto, a utilização de vacinas pode causar reações no local da aplicação. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da vacina em bovinos leiteiros e observar a incidência de reações vacinais no local de aplicação. O estudo foi realizado numa propriedade leiteira do município de Salvador do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, onde foram vacinados 270 bovinos contra febre aftosa no mês de maio de 2019. A vacina foi administrada por via subcutânea, com seringas e agulhas descartáveis para cada animal. Foi realizada inspeção dos animais antes da vacinação e 21 dias após a vacinação, para verificar a presença de reações vacinais. A amostra foi definida por conveniência, incluindo 203 vacas em lactação com ou sem administração de somatotropina bovina (BST) durante o período de coleta de dados, que l foi de 20 dias antes e 20 dias após a vacinação. Estes dados de produção de leite foram obtidos através do software SmartDairy® HerdMetrix™, tabulados em planilhas eletrônicas do Microsoft Excel® e processados usando o programa SAS®, considerando 5% de nível de significância para uma análise estatística modelo misto. Foi observado que 160 (78,82%) vacas apresentaram lesões no local de aplicação, mesmo quando a aplicação era realizada de acordo com as boas práticas de vacinação, o que indica o alto poder de reação provocada pelos componentes da vacina. Em relação à produção de leite, observou-se uma redução significativa (p<0,05) na produção média diária de 0,30kg de leite por animal/dia nos 21 dias após a vacinação. Esses resultados demonstram os efeitos locais e sistêmicos provocados pela vacina da febre aftosa, evidenciados pela redução na produção de leite e pela incidência de reações vacinais, o que implica em significativas perdas econômicas.(AU)

Food defense: Perceptions and attitudes of Brazilian dairy companies.

This study aimed to evaluate the perception of Brazilian dairy processors (n = 31) concerning food defense. The results showed that respondents consider the implementation of control procedures related to facilities, products, materials, and individuals as important measures in food defense. The higher agreement rates (strongly agreed + slightly agreed) of the companies in relation to the perception of food defense were 84% for external security, followed by personnel security (82%), generalities (81%), and internal security (74%). Thus, protecting facilities and controlling the traffic flow were considered to be the most important actions under the participants' perspectives. Employee satisfaction and identification of end products and raw materials are also considered relevant in the food defense program. Although food defense is not a formal requirement in Brazilian law, the results show that there is adequate awareness of this topic by the Brazilian dairy companies.