Piglets ‘can thrive’ without zinc oxide
Livestock 01/08/2024
Pigs can still thrive despite the removal of potentially harmful zinc oxide from their diets, says an industry specialist. Zinc oxide has been used for many years in the industry to reduce diarrhoea in post-weaned pigs. But concern over the potential risk to the environment saw the therapeutic use... Read more
Keep watchful eye on Salmonella risk
Livestock 01/08/2024
Egg producers and pullet rearers are being asked to remain vigilant against the threat of salmonella in British layers. The layer industry has been working to prevent the disease, but Elanco layer business manager Jeremy Marsh said it still was important for the industry to keep a watchful eye... Read more
Protect our borders, minister urged
Livestock 01/08/2024
Pig industry leaders have urged the government to stop illegal meat imports and animal disease from entering the UK. The National Pig Association national biosecurity and better border controls should be a top priority amid fears that a major disease outbreak could devastate Britain’s outdoor herds and indoor units.... Read more
Healthier livestock are more productive and can help mitigate climate change, suggests a study. Improving animal health may reduce greenhouse gas emissions without the need to switch to a meat-free diet or cut food production – helping to boost farm livelihoods and enhance animal welfare. The finding – by... Read more
Suckler beef farmers aiming for more sustainable systems are being advised to prioritise genetic traits that have the biggest influence on productivity. “With beef under increasing pressure to be more sustainable and profitable, it’s never been more important to review the suitability of herd genetics,” says Aberdeen-Angus Cattle Society... Read more
Early first cut silage results are analysing well – which should provide some welcome relief following a challenging winter and spring. At 11.2MJ/kg, average metabolisable energy (ME) levels appear similar to last year. At 31.5%, so too do average dry matter levels. But the ration of lactic acid to... Read more
A regenerative slurry inoculant will be exhibited for the first time at Groundswell by manufacturers Sylgen Animal Health. Called SlurryForSoil, the inoculant has been specially formulated for soil and plant health, says Sylgen director Geoff Hooper. It reflects the company’s commitment to foster sustainable and profitable agricultural practices, he... Read more
A regenerative approach to beef grazing cattle is helping a Shropshire farmer take his family business one step close to self-sufficiency. Since returning home 15 years ago to farm with his parents, Angus Hawkins has been keen to make use the family’s grassland to cut costs and boost the... Read more
Focus on dry matter for silage success
Livestock 03/06/2024
A focus on dry matter when ensiling grass this season could encourage good fermentation following the wet spring. Much first cut grass is high in fibre and lignin and low in sugars, with increased thatch and wet ground conditions increasing the likelihood of contamination. All these factors will mean... Read more
Sheep farmers are being warned to act now and take measures against blow fly – with red alerts being sent to farmers in East Anglia. Elanco ruminant technical consultant Matthew Colston says farmers should be vigilant and consider a cost-effective preventative treatment to protect flock health and productivity before... Read more
