#dairy farm sustainability

[farmerstrend]

Dairy Management & Soil Health: A Symbiotic Relationship

The dairy industry is taking significant strides to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainable agricultural practices. One of the key strategies dairy farmers are employing is investing in soil health through regenerative agriculture. In agriculture, soil health refers to the soil’s ability to sustain productivity while protecting environmental resources. This approach not only helps to…

[tominnepics]

Cows not good for environment

[terminabense]

  "Factory Farming: Cruelty Impacting Humans, Animals, and the Planet"

Factory farming, the industrialized production of livestock, has dire consequences for humans, animals, and the planet. For animals, it means a life of suffering in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions, often without access to natural behaviors or environments. Chickens, pigs, and cows endure unimaginable stress, injuries, and premature deaths, all for the sake of maximizing efficiency and profit.

For humans, factory farming poses significant health risks. The overuse of antibiotics in livestock to promote growth and prevent disease leads to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, posing a serious threat to public health. Workers in these facilities face dangerous conditions, exposure to harmful chemicals, and exploitative labor practices. Furthermore, communities near factory farms suffer from polluted air and water, leading to respiratory problems and other health issues.

Environmentally, factory farming is a major contributor to climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss. It generates large amounts of greenhouse gases, particularly methane from cattle, which significantly impacts global warming. Additionally, the industry consumes vast quantities of water and contributes to soil degradation and water pollution through runoff of animal waste and chemicals.

In summary, factory farming's quest for profit comes at an enormous cost to animal welfare, human health, and the environment. Sustainable and humane alternatives are essential for a healthier, more ethical future.

[trouw-nutrition]

Trouw Nutrition India: Feeding the Future with Innovation and Sustainability

Trouw Nutrition India, the animal nutrition division of Nutreco, is at the forefront of revolutionizing the animal nutrition industry. With a comprehensive range of feed specialties, additives, premixes, and nutritional services, Trouw Nutrition India has been catering to the needs of farmers, home-mixers, feed producers, integrators, and distributors since 2007. With a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the industry, Trouw Nutrition India is committed to its purpose of "Feeding the Future" by providing innovative solutions that ensure sustainable and efficient animal nutrition.

As the global population continues to grow rapidly, Trouw Nutrition India recognizes the urgent need to produce 70% more food by 2050 to feed nearly 10 billion people without depleting the planet's resources. In addition to human nutrition, there is also a growing demand to feed our four-legged friends. Trouw Nutrition India, along with its parent company Nutreco and sister division Skretting, aims to drive a transformation in the industry by guiding milk, egg, and meat farmers towards a circular agricultural system that utilizes land and resources more sustainably.

Trouw Nutrition India established its office in Hyderabad in 2018 and inaugurated a state-of-the-art production facility in 2020, underscoring its dedication to strengthening its presence in South Asia and India. With a presence in all stages of the value chain, Trouw Nutrition India brings unique insights and reliable experience to the challenge of sustainable animal production. By promoting good farm management practices and leveraging the power of nutrition, Trouw Nutrition India aims to build trust between farming communities and cities while ensuring the long-term viability of our planet.

Trouw Nutrition India recognizes that the power of nutrition and sustainable farm management practices can transform the industry and our planet. By challenging the current workings of the feed-to-food chain, Trouw Nutrition India strives to create a brighter future from planet to plate. Through innovative solutions, research-backed insights, and a commitment to continuous improvement, Trouw Nutrition India aims to make a significant impact on the industry, fostering a more sustainable and efficient approach to animal nutrition.

Trouw Nutrition India is leading the way in the animal nutrition industry, driven by its purpose of "Feeding the Future." With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to driving transformation, Trouw Nutrition India, together with Nutreco and Skretting, aims to revolutionize how the industry operates. By promoting circular agriculture, sustainable practices, and the power of nutrition, Trouw Nutrition India is actively contributing to feeding the growing global population while building a more sustainable and trusted future for farming communities and cities alike.

Trouw Nutition’s Sustainability roadmap 2025: Sustainability RoadMap 2025 - Trouw Nutrition

For more information visit at: https://www.trouwnutritionasiapacific.com/en-in/sustainability/

Contact us: customercareindia@trouwnutrition.com

[womenclature]

Family Faces 10 Years in Prison For “Stealing” Land They’ve Cultivated Since 1913

GoFundMe: Help the Maude Family Preserve Their Legacy

A grand jury indicted Charles and Heather Maude Hog and Cattle of Caputa, South Dakota on June 24th, 2024 for the theft of government property. The indictment stated that "Charles Maude and Heather Maude did knowingly steal, purloin, and convert to their own use of National Grasslands managed by the United States Department of Agriculture.....approximately 25 acres of National Grasslands for cultivation and approximately 25 acres of National Grasslands for grazing cattle."

This carries a fine of not more than $250,000 or imprisonment of not more than 10 years, or both, if found guilty.

The Maude family has owned the US Forest Service allotment in question since the Forest Service came into existence and has managed that same land since 1913. The family has never been advised it was violating any rules and to this day the family maintains its grazing agreement in good standing. When the US Forest Service presented concerns to Charles and Heather, the couple immediately sought resolution- presenting options including a special use permit to be put into place until a permanent solution was found, or a land trade. After just two meetings, the US Forest Service stopped discussing amicable resolution options and within a couple of weeks, Charles and Heather were indicted.

The fact that the two are indicted separately means they must each retain their own legal counsel-doubling their attorney fees.

The indictment hearing was on July 8th, 2024. Now, they wait to learn the evidence the US Forest Service used to indict them.

Charles and Heather rely on this land including the acres in question for their feed base and are facing a feed shortage. They have been unable to utilize it in that manner this growing season.

Heather's stories and photography have appeared on the pages of TSLN for many years. Her writing slowed down as her two children arrived and her direct sales meat business grew exponentially. She now contributes a bi-weekly column, Day writing.

Please consider donating to this hard-working family as they face the unknown. Please help them continue to farm, ranch, and grow their family in western South Dakota as they have for 5 generations.

GoFundMe Link:

For even more info, if curious:

[bharatvarsh22]

Explore the journey of milk from farm to table. Learn about the process of milk production and distribution, ensuring freshness and quality.

Do Read: https://bharatvarshnaturefarms.com/the-journey-of-milk-from-farm-to-table/

[advanceddairynutritioncourse]

Veridiana Daley: Pioneering Expertise in Dairy Nutrition for the Advanced Dairy Nutrition Online Course, NASEM 2021

Discover the impact of Veridiana Daley in ruminant nutrition at the Advanced Dairy Nutrition Online course, NASEM 2021. Practical and sustainable solutions for dairy farming.

[mygardenvideos]

How to fertilize Coconut tree with New Leaf Organic fertilizer?

Coconut tree is a heavy feeder and requires balanced NPK fertilizer. A young Coconut tree can be fertilized every once every 6 months and mature can be fertilized every 3 months New Leaf organic fertilizer is rich in Cow and Chicken Manure, Vermicompost, Rock Phosphate, Seaweed, Alfaalfa, Aloe Vera, Neem oil cake, Castor oil cake, Bentonite powder, Natural amino acids, Natural Micronutrients…

[rimaakter45]

The Ethical Vegan Diet: More Sustainable Future

Introduction:

The ethical vegan diet is gaining popularity for its focus on compassion and sustainability. Ethical vegans abstain from consuming animal products, aiming to eliminate harm directed towards animals while supporting a more environmentally-friendly food system. This article will delve into the principles of Ethical vegan eating, highlighting the ethical and environmental consequences of animal agriculture. Furthermore, we will explore the health benefits associated with adopting an ethical vegan diet and provide practical tips for implementing this lifestyle choice.

The Ethical Implications of Animal Agriculture:

Animal agriculture is a primary contributor to various ethical dilemmas surrounding animal rights. The factory farming industry subjects animals to overcrowded, unsanitary living conditions and inhumane treatment. Ethical vegans argue that all sentient beings have an inherent right to life, freedom, and protection from unnecessary suffering. By avoiding animal products, ethical vegans refuse to support an industry that promotes cruelty and exploitation.

Additionally, the widespread use of antibiotics and hormones in animal agriculture poses significant health risks. Routine use of antibiotics leads to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, jeopardizing public health. Ethical vegans advocate for a food system that prioritizes the well-being of both humans and animals, highlighting the need for a shift towards plant-based alternatives.

Environmental Benefits of Ethical Veganism:

Beyond ethical concerns, adopting an ethical vegan diet also has significant environmental benefits. Animal agriculture is a major contributor to deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and water pollution. Livestock farming requires vast amounts of land, leading to the destruction of ecosystems and loss of biodiversity.

Furthermore, the process of rearing animals for food is extremely resource-intensive, requiring substantial water usage, feed production, and transportation. Animal agriculture is responsible for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions, primarily due to methane released by livestock. By choosing to consume plant-based alternatives, ethical vegans reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

The Health Aspect of Ethical Veganism:

Contrary to common misconceptions, an ethical vegan diet can meet all nutritional requirements. Well-planned vegan diets can be nutritionally adequate and provide all essential vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients needed for optimal health. Plant-based diets are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which can help in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

However, to ensure adequate nutrient intake, ethical vegans need to pay attention to certain nutrients like vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, calcium, and zinc, which are commonly found in animal products. These can be obtained through vegan-friendly fortified foods, supplements, or careful selection of plant-based sources.

Practical Tips for Adopting an Ethical Vegan Lifestyle:

Transitioning to an ethical vegan diet can be a gradual process. Start by incorporating more plant-based meals into your routine and experimenting with various fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. Educate yourself about plant-based nutrition and seek guidance from registered dietitians or nutritionists to ensure a balanced diet.

Explore the wide variety of vegan alternatives available, such as tofu, tempeh, seitan, lentils, and nut-based milks. Experiment with different cooking techniques and flavor combinations to discover delicious plant-based meals.

In addition to diet, ethical veganism extends to the use of animal-derived products like clothing, cosmetics, and household items. Opt for cruelty-free and vegan alternatives whenever possible, avoiding products that have been tested on animals or contain animal-derived ingredients.

Conclusion:

Adopting an ethical vegan diet aligns individual food choices with moral principles, promoting compassion for animals and environmental sustainability. Through eliminating animal products, ethical vegans prioritize the well-being of all sentient beings and minimize their environmental impact. By understanding the ethical implications of animal agriculture and acknowledging the numerous health benefits associated with plant-based diets, individuals can make informed choices that promote a more compassionate and sustainable future. Please visit here Ethical vegan eating  for more information.

[farmerstrend]

Why the Kenyan Government is Betting on South Asian Water Buffalos for Food Security

The Kenyan government has officially recognized water buffalo as a food animal, opening new opportunities for meat and dairy production. Learn how this move will impact farmers, consumers, and the livestock industry. Kenya is set to introduce water buffalos for meat and milk production. Discover the benefits, regulations, and how farmers can capitalize on this game-changing livestock sector…

[esglatestmarketnews]

The Role of Sustainability in the Dairy Product Industry: Understanding ESG

Protecting the environment and society for a better future has posed challenges and opportunities to underpin sustainable dairy product farming. Farmers have furthered efforts on science and innovations to foster a transition to net-zero GHG emissions. A safe, healthy and inclusive workplace and the need to ensure the well-being of cows will bring a tectonic shift in the dairy industry. So much so that responsible sourcing, responsible social engagement and responsible operations have become a household name in the environmental, social and governance (ESG) landscape.

Brands’ endeavor to augment returns for investors could see them inject funds into a resilient, inclusive, low-carbon future. Concerted efforts to create a sustainable future have largely counted on raw milk preservation, quality control technology, smart manufacturing and probiotics. Bullish strategies to bolster business ethics, transparency and anti-bribery mechanisms will help leading companies to underscore their ESG targets and rankings. 

Arla Navigates Sustainability Trends

A notable uptick in on-farm emissions has compelled incumbent dairy companies to emphasize sustainable development goals. An emphasis on green energy and the integration of grasslands into dairy farming could provide a silver bullet to ESG goals. Arla has set an audacious target of reducing on-farm emissions by 30% per kilo milk by 2030. Besides, 24% of the company’s farm owners produced renewable electricity from solar panels or wind turbines at their farms in 2021.

The brand fostered a carbon net zero commitment by 2050—it claims the cow manure in Sweden corresponds to 54 million liters of diesel. The company claims to have converted 70 million cartons of Lactofree milk from layers of virgin plastic to plastic from the side streams of paper production. Besides, it aims for 100% recyclable packaging by 2025 and is bullish on halving food waste in its operations and logistics by 2030. Environmental commitment will be instrumental in bolstering brand position and propelling ESG ranking.

Is your business one of the participants in the Dairy Product Industry? Contact us for focused consultation around ESG Investing, and help you build sustainable business practices

Fonterra Co-operative Underpins Employment Generation

Food safety has become vital to underscore sustainability profile, look after people, and help farmers add value to the milk business. Fonterra has formed farmer engagement and support programs to collect milk from farms. The dairy giant has furthered farm assessment. In FY 2022, 57% of farmers were assessed in Australia, while 14% of farms were placed in the performance management process in New Zealand. 

Employment generation and income creation have garnered headlines in the dairy business. In 2022, Fonterra returned over USD 13.7 billion to regional New Zealand through the milk price. The dairy company directly employed 19,608 people—over 60% were based in New Zealand. Closing the gender pay gap has become an invaluable lever to boost social pillar. The ratio of female-to-male base salary in 2022 was pegged at 0.93 on a median basis and 1.07 on a mean basis. Meanwhile, the gender pay gap in New Zealand was 0.95 (median basis). The company is expected to review the experiences of Māori and Pasifika employees within its Aotearoa New Zealand teams. As of FY 2022, the dairy company has 15% ethnic representation in senior leadership.

Kraft Heinz Company Propels Governance Profile

Dairy product business seeks strategic direction, board diversity, transparency and ethics & compliance, similar to other industries, to stay ahead of the curve and underscore sustainability quotient. The Board of Directors at Kraft Heinz reviews ESG policies, processes and goals, while the ESG team interacts with customers, consumers, employees, stockholders, community leaders and NGOs. Its ESG Steering Committee Subcommittees foster transparency and collaboration, track emerging issues and hold monthly workgroups on animal welfare, sustainable packaging, responsible sourcing, product health, corporate & government affairs and sustainable agriculture.  

Kraft Heinz has undergirded ethics and compliance to set high standards for conducting business. The American food company offers training on issues, such as whistleblowing, due diligence and conflict of interest matters. The company also warrants all employees to maintain transparent, honest and forthright relationships with government officials, a significant stride towards effective compliance procedures. 

ESG stewardship calls for waste minimization, emission reduction, sustainable packaging, a healthy community and sound corporate governance. Forward-looking companies are likely to prioritize issues that matter the most to the business, stakeholders and society. The global dairy products market size stood at USD 481.08 billion in 2019 and will expand at around 2.5% CAGR between 2020 and 2027, infers Grand View Research. The billion-dollar industry could witness the paradigm shift created by evolving ESG goals.  

About Astra – ESG Solutions By Grand View Research

Astra is the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) arm of Grand View Research Inc. - a global market research publishing & management consulting firm.

Astra offers comprehensive ESG thematic assessment & scores across diverse impact & socially responsible investment topics, including both public and private companies along with intuitive dashboards. Our ESG solutions are powered by robust fundamental & alternative information. Astra specializes in consulting services that equip corporates and the investment community with the in-depth ESG research and actionable insight they need to support their bottom lines and their values. We have supported our clients across diverse ESG consulting projects & advisory services, including climate strategies & assessment, ESG benchmarking, stakeholder engagement programs, active ownership, developing ESG investment strategies, ESG data services, build corporate sustainability reports. Astra team includes a pool of industry experts and ESG enthusiasts who possess extensive end-end ESG research and consulting experience at a global level.

Need expert consultation around identifying, analyzing and creating a plan to mitigate ESG risks related to your business? Share your concerns and queries, we can help!

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[attheideality]

The Carbon Culprits: Unveiling Foods with the Highest Carbon Footprint

[agreads]

Empire State Development announces finalists for round five of $3 million Grow-NY global food and agriculture business competition

Empire State Development (ESD) and Cornell University’s Center for Regional Economic Advancement (CREA) recently announced the 20 finalists selected to take part in year five of Grow-NY, a food and agriculture business competition focused on enhancing the emerging food, beverage, and agriculture innovation cluster in upstate New York. The competition is funded through New York state’s Upstate…

[acti-veg]

Leather vs. Pleather: 8 Myths Debunked

Since we are all beyond tired of seeing the same regurgitated leather posts every day, I've compiled and briefly debunked some of the most common myths peddled about leather and pleather… So hopefully we can all move on to talk about literally anything else.

1) Leather is not sustainable.

Approximately 85% of all leather (almost all leather you'll find in stores) is tanned using chromium. During the chrome tanning process, 40% of unused chromium salts are discharged in the final effluents, which makes it's way into waterways and poses a serious threat to wildlife and humans. There are also significant GHG emissions from the sheer amount of energy required to produce and tan leather.

Before we even get the cow's hide, you first need to get them to slaughter weight, which is a hugely resource-intensive process. Livestock accounts for 80% of all agricultural land use, and grazing land for cattle likely represents the majority of that figure. To produce 1 pound of beef (and the subsequent hide), 6-8 pounds of feed are required. An estimated 86% of the grain used to feed cattle is unfit for human consumption, but 14% alone represents enough food to feed millions of people. On top of that, one-third of the global water footprint of animal production is related to cattle alone. The leather industry uses greenwashing to promote leather as an eco-friendly material. Leather is often marketed as an eco-friendly product, for example, fashion brands often use the Leather Working Group (LWG) certificate to present their leather as sustainable. However, this certification (rather conveniently) does not include farm-level impacts, which constitute the majority of the negative environmental harm caused by leather.

2) Leather is not just a byproduct.

Some cows are raised speciifically for leather, but this a minority and usually represents the most expensive forms of leather. This does not mean that leather is just a waste product of beef and dairy, or that it is a completely incidental byproduct; it is more accurate to call leather a tertiary product of the beef and dairy industries. Hides used to fetch up to 50% of the total value of the carcass, this has dropped significantly since COVID-19 to only about 5-10%, but this is recovering, and still represents a significant profit margin. Globally, leather accounts for up to 26% of major slaughterhouses’ earnings. Leather is inextricably linked to the production of beef and dairy, and buying leather helps make the breeding, exploitation and slaughter of cows and steers a profitable enterprise.

3) Leather is not as biodegradable as you think.

Natural animal hides are biodegradable, and this is often the misleading way leather that sellers word it. "Cow hide is fully biodegradable" is absolutely true, it just purposely leaves out the fact that the tanning process means that the hide means that leather takes between 25 and 40 years to break down. Even the much-touted (despite it being a tiny portion of the market) vegetable-tanned leather is not readily biodegradable. Since leather is not recyclable either, most ends up incinerated, or at landfill. The end-of-life cycle and how it relates to sustainability is often massively overstated by leather sellers, when in fact, it is in the production process that most of the damage is done.

4) Leather is not humane.

The idea that leather represents some sort of morally neutral alternative to the evils of plastic is frankly laughable, at least to anyone who has done even a little bit of research into this exploitative and incredibly harmful industry. Cows, when properly cared for, can live more than fifteen years. However, most cows are usually slaughtered somewhere around 2-3 years old, and the softest leather, most luxurious leather comes from the hide of cows who are less than a year old. Some cows are not even born before they become victim to the industry. Estimates vary, but according to an EFSA report, on average 3% of dairy cows and 1.5 % of beef cattle, are in their third-trimester of pregnancy when they are slaughtered.

Slaughter procedures vary slightly by country, but a captive bolt pistol shot to the head followed by having their throats slit, while still alive, is standard industry practice. This represents the “best” a slaughtered cow can hope for, but many reports and videos exist that suggest that cows still being alive and conscious while being skinned or dismembered on the production line is not uncommon, some of these reports come from slaughterhouse workers themselves.

5) Leather often involves human exploitation.

The chemicals used to tan leather, and the toxic water that is a byproduct of tanning, affect workers as well as the environment; illness and death due to toxic tanning chemicals is extremely common. Workers across the sector have significantly higher morbidity, largely due to respiratory diseases linked to the chemicals used in the tanning process. Exposure to chromium (for workers and local communities), pentachlorophenol and other toxic pollutants increase the risk of dermatitis, ulcer nasal septum perforation and lung cancer.

Open Democracies report for the Child Labour Action Research Programme shows that there is a startlingly high prevalence of the worst forms of child labour across the entire leather supply chain. Children as young as seven have been found in thousands of small businesses processing leather. This problem is endemic throughout multiple countries supplying the global leather market.

6) Pleather is not a ‘vegan thing’.

Plastic clothing is ubiquitous in fast fashion, and it certainly wasn’t invented for vegans. Plastic leather jackets have been around since before anyone even knew what the word vegan meant, marketing department have begun describing it as ‘vegan leather’ but it’s really no more a vegan thing than polyester is. Most people who wear pleather are not vegan, they just can’t afford to buy cow’s leather, which remains extremely expensive compared to comparable fabrics.

It is striking how anti-vegans consistently talk about how ‘not everyone can afford to eat plant-based’ and criticise vegans for advocating for veganism on that basis, yet none of them seem to mind criticisms directed at people for wearing a far cheaper alternative than leather. You can obviously both be vegan and reduce plastic (as we all should), but vegans wear plastic clothing for the same reason everyone else does: It is cheaper.

7) Plastic is not the only alternative.

When engaging in criticism of pleather, the favourite tactic seems to be drawing a false dilemma where we pretend the only options are plastic and leather. Of course, this is a transparent attempt to draw the debate on lines favourable to advocates of leather, by omitting the fact that you can quite easily just buy neither one.

Alternatives include denim, hemp, cork, fiber, mushroom fiber, cotton, linen, bamboo, recycled plastic, and pinatex, to name a few. Alternatives exist for everything from materials designed to ensure sub-zero temperatures and specialist motorcycle equipment. There are exceptions in professions like welding, where an alternative can be difficult to source, but nobody needs a jacket, shoes or a bag that looks like leather. For most of us, leather is a luxury item that doesn’t even need to be replaced at all.

If you'd like to see a detailed summary of the comparison between leather/wool and plastic, as well as the available alternatives, you can find that here.

8) Leather is not uniquely long-lasting.

The longevity of leather is really the only thing it has going for it, environmentally speaking. Replacing an item less often means fewer purchases, and will likely have a lower environmental impact than one you have to replace regularly. Leather is not unique in this respect, however, and the idea that it is, is mostly just effective marketing.

As your parents will tell you, a well-made denim jacket can last a lifetime. Hemp and bamboo can both last for decades, as can cork and pinatex. Even cotton and linen can last for many years when items are looked after well. While some materials are more hard wearing than others, how long an item will last is mostly the result of how well made the product is and how well it is maintained, not whether or not the item is leather.

[bharatvarsh22]

From Cow to Carton: The Journey of Milk from Farm to Table

Have you ever wondered where the milk you enjoy every morning comes from? It all begins on the farm, where dedicated farmers work tirelessly to ensure the well-being of their cows and the quality of the milk they produce. At Bharatvarsh Nature Farms, we prioritize sustainable farming practices and ethical treatment of animals, resulting in high-quality milk that nourishes not only your body but also supports local communities.

Join us on a journey from the farm to your table as we explore the fascinating world of milk!

This blog will delve into:

The benefits of consuming milk: We’ll explore the wealth of essential nutrients found in milk and its impact on overall health and well-being.

The journey of milk at Bharatvarsh: From milking to processing, packaging, and distribution, we’ll unveil the meticulous steps involved in bringing you the freshest milk possible.

Fun facts about milk: Discover interesting tidbits about milk consumption throughout history, its cultural significance, and its various forms.

By the end of this blog, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the journey your milk takes and the dedication of everyone involved in bringing it to you.

It all begins on the dairy farm, where cows graze on lush pastures and receive expert care from farmers dedicated to their well-being. At Bharatvarsh Nature Farms, we prioritize sustainable farming practices that ensure our cows are healthy and happy, resulting in high-quality milk.

Exploring the Benefits of Consuming Milk

Milk stands as a quintessential pillar of nutrition, offering a wealth of essential nutrients crucial for maintaining optimal health and vitality. Let’s delve deeper into the multifaceted benefits that milk provides:

Nutrient-Rich Composition:

Milk is a treasure trove of essential nutrients, boasting a rich profile of calcium, protein, vitamins, and minerals. These elements play pivotal roles in supporting bone health, muscle function, and overall well-being.

Health Enhancements:

Regular consumption of milk has been associated with a myriad of health benefits. Among these are improvements in cardiovascular health, bolstered immune function, and a decreased risk of chronic ailments such as osteoporosis and type 2 diabetes. By incorporating milk into your daily diet, you’re not just enjoying a delicious beverage but also investing in your long-term health.

Continue Reading: https://bharatvarshnaturefarms.com/the-journey-of-milk-from-farm-to-table/

[kitharion]

I think the big picture that these vegan/“eco-friendly” startups miss is that industrialized food production is the driving force behind basically ALL of the ecological destruction caused by our current food systems.

OP hit the nail on the head with the observation that the current “buy plant based” push is just more capitalism. It’s a way to get people, especially younger people who want to be making the most ecological choice, to spend more money than ever on things they want to eat. They make us feel like we’re making a difference and doing the right thing, yet ultimately not challenging our current system or making any real changes that would lead to an actual reduction of our environmental impact.

Paying $10 for a lab-made vegan cheese which is produced in a factory that’s belching emissions (and likely mistreating their workers!) is not any better for the environment than buying the $5 dairy equivalent.

Like.. the only real way for us to unfuck the environmental impact of our food systems is to start rebuilding small scale food supply chains.

I’m on break at work currently but once I’m home and can get on my PC I can pull up sources for this, but our current industrial agriculture system is not just part of the problem, it’s the fundamental issue that’s wreaking havoc on the environment and fueling climate change.

I went down the internet rabbit hole trying to figure out wtf vegan cheese is made of and I found articles like this one speaking praises of new food tech startups creating vegan alternatives to cheese that Actually work like cheese in cooking so I was like huh that's neat and I looked up more stuff about 'precision fermentation' and. This is not good.

Basically these new biotech companies are pressuring governments to let them build a ton of new factories and pushing for governments to pay for them or to provide tax breaks and subsidies, and the factories are gonna cost hundreds of millions of dollars and require energy sources. Like, these things will have to be expensive and HUGE

I feel like I've just uncovered the tip of the "lab grown meat" iceberg. There are a bajillion of these companies (the one mentioned in the first article a $750 MILLION tech startup) that are trying to create "animal-free" animal products using biotech and want to build large factories to do it on a large scale

I'm trying to use google to find out about the energy requirements of such facilities and everything is really vague and hand-wavey about it like this article that's like "weeeeeell electricity can be produced using renewables" but it does take a lot of electricity, sugars, and human labor. Most of the claims about its sustainability appear to assume that we switch over to renewable electricity sources and/or use processes that don't fully exist yet.

I finally tracked down the source of some of the more radical claims about precision fermentation, and it comes from a think tank RethinkX that released a report claiming that the livestock industry will collapse by 2030, and be replaced by a system they're calling...

Food-as-Software, in which individual molecules engineered by scientists are uploaded to databases – molecular cookbooks that food engineers anywhere in the world can use to design products in the same way that software developers design apps.

I'm finding it hard to be excited about this for some odd reason

Where's the evidence for lower environmental impacts. That's literally what we're here for.

There will be an increase in the amount of electricity used in the new food system as the production facilities that underpin it rely on electricity to operate.

well that doesn't sound good.

This will, however, be offset by reductions in energy use elsewhere along the value chain. For example, since modern meat and dairy products will be produced in a sterile environment where the risk of contamination by pathogens is low, the need for refrigeration in storage and retail will decrease significantly.

Oh, so it will be better for the Earth because...we won't need to refrigerate. ????????

Oh Lord Jesus give me some numerical values.

Modern foods will be about 10 times more efficient than a cow at converting feed into end products because a cow needs energy via feed to maintain and build its body over time. Less feed consumed means less land required to grow it, which means less water is used and less waste is produced. The savings are dramatic – more than 10-25 times less feedstock, 10 times less water, five times less energy and 100 times less land.

There is nothing else in this report that I can find that provides evidence for a lower carbon footprint. Supposedly, an egg white protein produced through a similar process has been found to reduce environmental impacts, but mostly everything seems very speculative.

And crucially none of these estimations are taking into account the enormous cost and resource investment of constructing large factories that use this technology in the first place (existing use is mostly for pharmaceutical purposes)

It seems like there are more tech startups attempting to use this technology to create food than individual scientific papers investigating whether it's a good idea. Seriously, Google Scholar and JSTOR have almost nothing. The tech of the sort that RethinkX is describing barely exists.

Apparently Liberation Labs is planning to build the first large-scale precision fermentation facility in Richmond, Indiana come 2024 because of the presence of "a workforce experienced in manufacturing"

And I just looked up Richmond, Indiana and apparently, as of RIGHT NOW, the town is in the aftermath of a huge fire at a plastics recycling plant and is full of toxic debris containing asbestos and the air is full of toxic VOCs and hydrogen cyanide. ???????????? So that's how having a robust industrial sector is working out for them so far.