Understand
How genetic testing aims to breed healthier cows and cut farming emissions
Overview
A £16.6m scheme in Northern Ireland is using genetic testing to help farmers make better breeding decisions, improve animal health, and reduce farming emissions. The Sustainable Ruminant Genetics (SRG) scheme analyses the genetic make-up of cattle to identify valuable traits—such as disease resistance and lower environmental impact—that cannot be seen through visual inspection or milk yield alone. Free testing is available until the end of 2027, with over 6,000 farmers already signed up.
Key points
- A £16.6m Sustainable Ruminant Genetics (SRG) scheme offers free genetic testing for every cow in Northern Ireland until the end of 2027.
- The initiative helps farmers identify hidden desirable traits in female cattle, such as parasite and TB resistance, quieter temperaments, and better conformation to reduce lameness.
- Healthier and more resilient cattle could lead to reduced antibiotic use on farms and lower farming emissions.
- Over 6,000 farmers have already signed up for the programme, which is part of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affair's Bovine Genetic Project.
- Industry figures highlight that the scheme aims to improve animal welfare, increase farm profitability, and support sustainable food production for consumers.