EFFAB IS THE VOICE OF
animal breeding
in EUROPE
The European Forum of Farm Animal Breeders is the association that represents animal breeding and reproduction organisations in Europe.
Members of EFFAB are involved in the genetic improvement of different farm animal species: ruminants, pigs, poultry, aquaculture and insects;
and represent a wide diversity of farming systems.
Together with its members, EFFAB promotes sustainable, responsible, and balanced animal breeding by engaging in dialogue with policymakers and stakeholders
to highlight its contribution to sustainable food systems.
MORE ABOUT EFFAB and its member
Modern
animal
breeding
Animal breeding can be explained as the selective crossing of domestic animals that have desirable qualities resulting in improved offspring. These ‘qualities’ are translated as breeding values for a number of interesting traits. A few examples are known to everyone, such as milk production and quality.
In the last decades, traits related to disease resistance, animal welfare, robustness, fertility, longevity, the reduction of the impact on the environment (e.g. methane reduction) and better use of feed resources have intensified their importance in animal breeding programs.
our policy priorities
EFFAB promotes science-based animal breeding policies that contribute to sustainable livestock production and aquaculture in Europe.
We engage with policymakers, researchers and stakeholders on the issues shaping the future of farm animal breeding.
ANIMAL WELFARE
Breeding for better welfare
Animal welfare is a core objective of responsible breeding. Genetic improvement supports animals that are more robust, resilient and well adapted to their environment.
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ANIMAL HEALTH
Healthier animals through genetic improvement
Breeding contributes to healthier livestock by improving resistance to diseases and reducing the need for treatments.
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NGTs
Innovation for sustainable breeding
EFFAB supports the responsible use of New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) to accelerate genetic progress while maintaining high standards of safety, sustainability and transparency.
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GENETIC RESOURCES
Protecting biodiversity
Maintaining genetic diversity is essential for resilient livestock populations and future breeding opportunities.
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our partnerships
Collaboration is at the heart of EFFAB's mission. We work closely with research organisations, European institutions, industry stakeholders, NGOs and partner associations to advance sustainable farm animal breeding and contribute to the development of resilient livestock systems.
RESEARCH AND INNOVATION
EFFAB plays an active role in European research and innovation by connecting the breeding sector with the scientific community.
Through our leadership in FABRE TP and our participation in numerous EU-funded projects, we help shape research priorities, promote innovation and support the development of practical solutions for sustainable animal breeding.
PARTNERS NETWORK
EFFAB also collaborates with a wide range of European and international organisations across the livestock, food and sustainability sectors.
These partnerships enable us to exchange knowledge, contribute to joint initiatives, and represent the interests of the animal breeding sector in broader policy and stakeholder discussions.