Investment in New Technology to Support Cattle Industry

CANADA - An Alberta company will boost the value and use of genomics in the cattle industry with new trait identification tools which are expected to optimise productivity by government ministers.
calendar icon 14 January 2013
clock icon 2 minute read

The Delta genomics centre is hoped to offer lower production costs to producers meaning a better quality product and a boost to margins can be provided.

The investment of more than $575,000 will help Delta Genomics Centre accelerate the adoption of new genetic profiling tools that are more accurate, less costly and less time-consuming than traditional DNA tools.

The project is funded through the Agricultural Innovation Program - a $50-million initiative announced as part of Canada's Economic Action Plan 2011 and part of the Government's commitment to help Canadian producers benefit from cutting-edge science and technology.

Potential future benefits extend to feed lot owners and processors, who will use the technology to efficiently pinpoint animals with the right meat qualities.

These innovative tools use genomics technology to give producers the chance to look "under the hide" and make improvements to their cattle. Genomics, the study of an animal's genetic composition (DNA) or "profile," can identify valuable traits like disease resistance, carcass quality, or feed efficiency.

"The continued success of Canadian agriculture depends on the ability of our producers to remain at the top of the pack when it comes to innovation," said MP Hawn.

"This investment shows that our Government is committed to the advancement of our agriculture innovation sector."

"This project is an essential stepping stone to get the benefits of genomics into the hands of producers on the ground" said Colin Coros, VP Operations of Delta Genomics Centre.

"It will allow our project partners to adopt a new sire identification tool, which is fundamental to using more in depth DNA profiles for genetic improvement of Canadian cattle."

TheCattleSite News Desk

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