Statement: the continued commitment of animal breeders to animal welfare
15 June 2023Thursday 15th June 2023 - Over the next two days, EFFAB is taking part in the Animal Welfare Platform Meeting organised in Brussels by the European Commission to enhance dialogue and exchange between a diversity of stakeholders.
Considering later this year, the European Commission is expected to present its proposal to revise the animal welfare legislation and broaden its scope, this meeting comes timelier than ever.
EFFAB members are dedicated to animal welfare through Responsible and Balanced breeding strategies that contribute to better welfare and are described in Code EFABAR.
Research and innovation contribute to deepening our understanding of how genetics influence the welfare and behaviour of farm animals. By combining this knowledge with the responsible use of technologies, animal breeders can make further informed decisions that positively affect the well-being of farm animals. For example, in poultry breeding programs, 40% of traits are dedicated to improving welfare.
The Code of good practices for responsible and balanced breeding highlights the commitments of the animal breeding sector toward sustainability and the welfare of animals. It also shows how breeders have implemented the concept of balanced breeding over the last 20 years. Contrary to common belief, the breeding practices of 20 years ago (such as sole selection for specific traits for productivity purposes) do not apply anymore.
About EFFAB:
EFFAB (European Forum of Farm Animal Breeders) represents the sector of animal breeding and reproduction in Europe. From ruminants to insects, we aim at genetically improving various farm animal species, to better meet the challenges of sustainability and animal welfare. Technology, responsible science, and innovation are key to our work and the future of farming. www.effab.info
Read the full statement here.
More information about Code EFABAR can be found here.