Developments in farm animal breeding

The importance of animal breeding has increased significantly over the years. Selective breeding used to be a slow process, but thanks to research and new techniques, the process has been speeding up over time. Factors as sound documentation, specialisation and modernisation in farming have led to changes in the process and the structure of the breeding industry. Over the last 50 years methods of selection and reproductive techniques have become more powerful and refined. Globalisation and new technologies have been the driver of these developments. This has also led to more complex and varied selection traits than before. The sector becomes increasingly professionalised. 

Over time it became clear that breeding is an important contributor to improving food security and economic development. While at first a main focus of the sector was on increasing production efficiency, other aims have become of major importance in breeding programmes, such as improved animal welfare, resource efficiency, resistance to disease, food quality and environmental sustainability. 

Research contributes to developments in the farm animal breeding industry. More information on research and examples can be found on our website.