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Historically, whole-fat dairy products were stigmatised due to their saturated fat content, but emerging research suggests a more nuanced understanding of their impact on heart health.

This episode we take a deep dive into the changes affecting rising insurance premiums and advice on how to navigate the changes including a new insurance model called parametric insurance that will help farmers insure in the face of extreme weather events.

In this episode, we explore the rise in global dairy prices underpinned by China’s expanding appetite for our dairy products with growing demand for high-protein foods. We also discuss the economic impact of trade tensions and how farmers can navigate this market volatility. Plus, the importance of future policy settings in the face of an unpredictable global landscape.

Johne’s disease is a devastating disease for farmers to deal with, however, it is not uncommon. In this episode learn more about what you can do as a farmer to manage, prevent, and treat Johne’s disease if it pops up on your farm, and what conversations to be having with your vet.

Managing physical and mental health is constantly becoming more important in our day to day lives. In this episode hear from food scientist and nutritionist, Dr. Anneline Padayachee about the importance of nutrition from dairy. We also hear from Kathryn Wright, a registered rural councillor, about how to work towards goals and focus on the positive.

Deputy Editor Anne Lee attended the Australasian Dairy Science Symposium in November, and got the chance to talk to some of the researchers speaking at the conference. Hear the latest research in areas like managing heat stress, stacking mitigations to reduce N losses, and getting enough sleep.

The much anticipated Gene Technology Bill has been introduced to parliament this week giving New Zealanders the first look at what the new regulations around genetic technologies such as gene editing and genetic modification could look like. In this episode hear from Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment’s (MBIE) science advisor Dr Emily Parker on the tiered, risk-based approach to regulating the technologies, including techniques that could be exempt from the regulations. Also hear from Dr Raj Bhula, the Gene Technology Regulator in Australia.

BVD is a significant problem in the dairy industry. In this episode we talk to the US-based scientist who carried out a world first by gene editing BVD resistance into a bovine embryo, cloning it and producing a live BVD resistant calf. Also hear more about LIC’s new partnership in an American gene editing project.

Having control over your finances puts you more firmly at the helm when it comes to the direction of travel of your farm business. Hear how North Canterbury couple, Duncan & Nicky Anderson, budget and then monitor with good systems and communication so they and their two sons can meet the goals they’ve set together. We also hear from accountant Trudi Ballantyne on how to manage tax so there are no surprises.

Financial literacy is almost like learning another language, and in the summer issue of Dairy Exporter the special report focusses on where to start and what is to gain from improving financial literacy in our farm businesses. From understanding debt management, to growing your funds through compounding, this episode breaks down the key terms and tools, with DairyNZ’s Paul Bird, and BakerAg managing director Chris Lewis.

Farm ownership is becoming a harder goal to achieve, especially for the next generation who might not have the capital to meet increasing land prices. In this episode hear from Sarah How, Co-Founder of Landify, on how the platform is setting up young growers with established farmers; Conrad Wilkshire from Property Brokers about how the property market is gaining momentum this spring; and CEO of Pāmu Mark Leslie, on their new pathways programme.

The sun is finally out! Trish Rankin says it’s time to optimise their farm for the season.

Richard Reynolds reflects on his time as a farm consultant and questions DairyNZ’s new strategy to meet farmer needs.

Lactose intolerance is a significant health issue globally, although a lot of people are self-diagnosing. What’s the science behind it, what do we need to understand and how can we help people with less lactase? Words Dr Anneline Padayachee: The Food Scientist.

Farmers are great at looking after their cows’ optimal health, but several farmers need a bit of a nudge to get along to visit their GP and keep on top of their own health. Words Dr Alice Armstrong.

This loaf recipe can be used all year long, but the spices used, and the simplicity of the recipe makes
it a great gift to make over the holiday months. It could be a thank you to a teacher, mentor, staff member, your boss, a good friend or a family member. Alternatively it could be a quick, easy dessert to make for Christmas Day. Simply serve warm with ice cream or cream, or a sprinkle of icing sugar.