Research Priorities

Feed is the biggest expense in terms of milk production costs. Optimizing the resources allocated to producing quality feed on the farm, at a competitive cost, is therefore crucial to the profitability and sustainability of Quebec dairy farms. Quebec’s climate and regions present both particular advantages and constraints when it comes to producing feed for dairy cattle. Feed quality has a major impact on dairy cow performance, and feed prices are subject to world market fluctuations. The nutritional requirements of dairy cattle vary with age, parity, gestation and stage of lactation. In addition, the feed efficiency of cows varies according to their state of health, physiology, environmental and nutritional factors, as well as their genetic profile. In such a context, dairy farms need to develop strategies for obtaining top-quality feed at the best possible cost.

Maintaining and improving dairy herd health is a priority for dairy farmers. Beyond the economic impact on the farm, dairy herd health is an industry issue. Strategies to prevent and manage herd health in order to reduce animal mortality and morbidity, and the associated costs, are important issues. Reducing the use of drugs, especially antibiotics, is also a priority for the dairy sector, to ensure sustainable production.

Responding to consumer concerns about the welfare and comfort of dairy cows remains a priority. Welfare is an integral component of farm profitability, as we aim to increase the health, longevity and lifespan of dairy cows.

Reproductive problems are the main reason for involuntary culling, with over 18% of cows eliminated from the herd. For several years, breeders have been noticing a decline in cow fertility, primarily characterized by a lower conception rate, despite an increase in the breeding rate. The economic losses associated with declining fertility are significant. The factors associated with declining performance in dairy cows are complex, multiple and interrelated.

Understanding the multiple properties of dairy matrices, and continuously mastering their interactions and evolution during the packaging, transformation and maturation processes, even after packaging, remains a constant challenge. The development of this knowledge is the basis for consistent production and the development of new products.

In a context of precision management and automation, companies must rely on reliable indicators, decision-making tools and high-performance analysis and control methods. The challenge: continuously monitor the evolution of dairy products during processing, maturation and post-packaging.

This strategic research priority is part of a sustainable development approach that aims to increase the eco-efficiency of dairy processing to optimize economic, environmental and social benefits. As defined by World Business

Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), a company’s eco-efficiency is achieved by delivering competitively priced goods and services that satisfy human needs and contribute to quality of life, while progressively reducing ecological impacts and resource use throughout the life cycle, to a level acceptable to the planet’s estimated carrying capacity. In short, it’s about creating more value with a lower environmental impact.

Milk quality is a common challenge for dairy producers and processors. Milk is a complex raw material. The composition and flora of milk modulate its suitability for industrial and artisanal processing, and give it unique organoleptic properties. The cow, her environment and herd management influence the composition and processing qualities of milk, particularly in terms of desirable or undesirable flavors and positive or negative indigenous flora. The industry has developed and must maintain the highest standards to meet milk quality and safety requirements.

Sustainable development is a priority in research for both the production and processing of dairy products. While milk production and transport account for most of the ecological footprint, the entire dairy sector, including processing, must consider environmental issues. Through the research it supports, Novalait aims to promote the sustainable development of Quebec’s dairy industry by backing projects that reduce the ecological footprint, enhance energy efficiency, and encourage environmentally-friendly practices, all while ensuring the sector’s competitiveness.