Having a dairy hygiene programme in place is crucial, as when spring arrives, Irish dairy farmers are in the thick of it, with approximately 65% of calving occurring during this busy period.
Now is the ideal time to review and refresh your dairy hygiene protocols. A robust hygiene programme is fundamental to maintaining herd health, milk quality, and profitability, especially during this peak calving season.
A 2024 survey of dairy farmers reveals insights into their practices regarding parlour cleaning, teat dipping, and calf biosecurity.
Agri Farm Source Ltd (AFS), founded by Robert Warren, in partnership with a leading food and animal safety company, Neogen, discuss these findings and offer advice on enhancing biosecurity on dairy farms.
Dairy parlour cleaning: Efficiency and cost-effectiveness
The milking parlour is the engine room of any dairy farm, and its cleanliness is paramount, particularly during the high-throughput spring calving period.
The survey revealed that two-thirds of farmers use conventional parallel milking systems, a common setup on farms across the country, with milking personnel or the herd manager primarily responsible for cleaning.
In addition, only two-thirds have modified their cleaning cycle settings since installation. This demonstrates a proactive approach, but are farmers getting the most out of their efforts?
Cost is a significant factor, especially with fluctuating input prices. The survey found that just under half of farmers have evaluated the cost of parlour cleaning, and for half of those, it influenced their choice of cleaning chemicals.
This highlights a crucial link – understanding cleaning costs, including water, energy, and chemical usage, can directly impact purchasing decisions and overall farm profitability.
As the survey confirms: “49% of those who undertook the cost analysis agree it influenced their selection of cleaning chemicals.”
Given the typical spring-calving pattern in Ireland, optimising cleaning efficiency is essential to manage time and resources effectively.
The survey also highlighted that product effectiveness and reliability are the most important attributes in dairy hygiene brand purchase decisions.
75% of farmers prefer to buy the same brand where possible, indicating a strong preference for trusted products. However, one in four farmers stated that influence from a local co-op or merchant would make them consider changing brands.
With 15 years of experience, AFS, founded by Robert Warren, understands the specific needs of farmers.
Robert’s background in farming in Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, and his ethos of providing “unique products and advice” resonates strongly with the farming community.
Teat dipping: Protecting udder health in dairy cows
Effective teat dipping is crucial for preventing mastitis and maintaining udder health, especially during the spring calving season when cows are under increased stress.
The survey found the majority of respondents are using pre- and post-milking teat dips, sprays and foams. However, only a quarter adjust their teat care routines based on the season.
This is a missed opportunity, as Ireland’s variable weather can significantly impact teat condition and mastitis risk. Neogen, in partnership with AFS, offers a range of teat dips formulated to address these seasonal challenges.
Nine in 10 farmers have their bulk milk analysed by Bactoscan or a similar system, indicating a strong focus on milk quality. Robert’s team can provide product advice to best suit individual farm needs.
As with parlour cleaning products, product effectiveness and reliability are key purchasing factors. Farmers are making purchasing decisions within a couple of weeks, aligning with the fast-paced nature of spring calving.
Robert Warren and his team are well-positioned to provide this support, drawing on years of experience and a deep understanding of industry best practices.
This expertise is echoed in the experiences of farmers like Sam Rose, who has used post-milking teat dip Synoshield for more than ten years to maintain optimal hygiene on his farm.
Synoshield, a ready-to-use, lactic-based product can be applied as a dip or spray.
Synoshield’s powerful biocidal action and skin-conditioning properties help prevent teat deterioration, especially during the challenging spring season when dryness and chapping are common.
Spring cleaning for success with AFS and Neogen
Just as a spring clean freshens up your home, a review of your dairy hygiene programme is essential for dairy farmers.
AFS, in partnership with Neogen, provides products manufactured in Greater Manchester by an in-house team of chemists, R&D, Regulatory and Product Managers who ensure products meet the demands of Irish farmers.
If you are interested in any of our products and would like to discuss further, please contact Robert Warren: email: [email protected]; Phone number: 0872902557.
Robert supplies a full dairy range of products including teat care, parlour cleaners (descalers, peracetic acid and detergents).
