In December 2020 CRV became the first herd improvement organisation in the world to introduce a breeding value for feed efficiency based on real feed intake data. Currently feed intake data from 8,000 cows is available and giving this breeding value a high reliability. In the coming years the reliability will increase further as CRV collects feed intake data from five working farms with in total 2,500 lactating cows a daily basis.
Efficient and sustainable herds
Efficient and sustainable cows generate immediate benefits for both dairy farmers and society. Feed costs represent about 60% of all variable costs involved in milk production. Breeding for feed efficiency saves on average of 10% on feed costs. In addition, efficient conversion of feed also has a positive impact on the environment as it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and the use of scarce resources.
CRV, leading in feed efficiency
As a pioneer in the sector, CRV has been collecting feed intake data since 2017 with aim to increase farm profits by decreasing milk production costs. Having collected this reliable data for many years already gives CRV a leading position in helping farms reduce production costs, increase profits and put less strain on the environment.
