NH Foods, in collaboration with Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), has developed a unique series of exclusive short, informative videos to help producers identify and manage common health challenges in livestock. These resources aim to highlight the direct link between improved animal health and increased on-farm profitability. You can view all of these videos, as well as more content from us on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NHFoodsAustralia
Liver Fluke in Cattle
Liver fluke is a parasitic flatworm that causes significant production losses in cattle and sheep. The infection leads to liver damage, weight loss, and reduced fertility. Fluke eggs are passed in faeces and develop into infective larvae in water, where they infect snails before being ingested by livestock. Managing liver fluke requires an integrated approach, including strategic drenching and pasture management.
Dark Cutting
Dark cutting is a meat quality issue where beef appears darker than normal due to low muscle glycogen levels before slaughter, leading to higher-than-ideal pH levels. While factors such as stress, nutrition, and handling can contribute to glycogen depletion, some cattle have a natural predisposition to this condition. Managing these factors can help minimise the risk, as maintaining optimal pH levels is key to ensuring meat tenderness, colour, and shelf life.
Hydatid Disease in Cattle
Hydatid disease is caused by a small tapeworm that inhabits the intestines of domestic and wild dogs. Infected dogs shed eggs in their faeces, contaminating pastures. When cattle ingest these eggs, fluid-filled cysts form in their organs, reducing carcass value. Humans can also contract hydatid disease, making control measures critical.
To reduce the risk:
- Worm domestic dogs regularly with praziquantel.
- Avoid feeding untreated offal to working dogs.
- Engage in wild dog control programs.
NH Foods Co-funded Capability Building Project
As part of its commitment to industry development, NH Foods has co-funded a capability-building initiative with MLA. This project focuses on improving producer knowledge and skills in livestock health and management, ensuring better outcomes for both farmers and the broader beef industry. Through workshops, research, and targeted resources, the project aims to drive long-term improvements in animal health and productivity.
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