Canada has allocated CA$1.7 million to enhance its agriculture industry through research on beef and dairy cattle genetics traits.
The Canadian Angus Association (CAA), a non-profit, will lead sector transformation research funded by the Canadian Ministry of Agriculture for three years.
Dysbiosis, an imbalance in gut bacteria, is associated with health issues like allergies, asthma, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
“The Canadian Angus Association exists to preserve and expand the breed for Canadian cattle producers and beef consumers, doing so in part by leading research and development projects. We are very grateful to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada for supporting our project through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership”, said, Myles Immerkar, the CEO of Canadian Angus Association.
The Canadian cattle industry is one of the largest industries in the country. It also ranks among the top revenue-generating sectors in the country. Last year, sales of cattle and calves reached a notable $15 million. Meanwhile, milk and cream sales generated a substantial revenue of $8.6 billion according to the Canadian Ministry of Agriculture.
Canada’s global prominence in the cattle industry stems from its strong dedication to quality and sustainability. Canadian dairy and cattle producers adhere to the highest standards. That is why, their products are highly coveted around the world.
The new initiative will further strengthen the country’s position in the global cattle genetics industry. AI for instance will speed up data collection and analysis by automating these processes. Machine learning will enhance insights over time and will improve accuracy as new data is fed into the system.
Computer vision will enable accurate and non-invasive phenotypic data collection. High-resolution cameras will capture real-time images and videos of cattle, reducing the need for human intervention.
“By embracing advanced technologies, we are not only supporting our farmers but also paving the way for enhanced economic and environmental sustainability. This funding is crucial to increasing producers’ profitability and ensuring that our beef and dairy products maintain top-notch quality. These advancements mean more money in producers’ pockets and more top-quality Canadian products on tables worldwide”, said Lawrence MacAulay, Canada’s agriculture minister.
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