Dairy & Beef News

Parasite experts say the 2025-26 season is following the trend for variable extent and timing of liver fluke challenge.

The newly appointed Liberal Democrat rural affairs spokesperson, Sarah Dyke MP, has called for an “adjudicator with teeth” as the dairy industry has been hit by reductions in milk price. 

Scotland’s farming industry leaders expressed “deep concern” following reports that many Scottish dairy farmers have been informed of significant milk price reductions due to take effect in October. 

Claims have been circulating on social media that a majority of meat in UK supermarkets is halal, with concerns over the proportion of animals slaughtered without prior stunning.

New research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) on the effectiveness of sedation and its potential health impacts following calf disbudding has identified a link to reduced growth rates after the procedure. The findings will help veterinary practitioners make more informed decisions and strengthen best practice in animal welfare. 

An early-stage review of the UK Dairy Cattle Welfare Strategy 2023–2028 has highlighted reduced lameness, improved udder health, and greater cow comfort as key outcomes.

With the global pushback on antibiotic use and the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance, proven non-antibiotic products are now more important than ever in livestock health, writes independent veterinary advisor for Provita, Dr Tom Barragry.

Claire Whittle, a veterinary surgeon and farmer from North Wales, has been named Dairy Industry Woman of the Year 2025.

Farming industry representatives have urged the UK government to remain steadfast and not barter away greater market access to the US, as this would jeopardise the future of UK dairy farming businesses, which are already under pressure.

Farmers have been advised to take extra steps to support calves born this late summer and autumn, with prolonged hot weather expected to impact survival and performance. 

The GB Calf Strategy 2025–2030 has been launched, calling on the dairy-beef sector to ensure every calf is reared with care, purpose, and value.

An investigation has been launched following suspected fatal botulism cases in cattle on farms in Essex, Northamptonshire and Shropshire.