INNOVATION AND PRODUCTIVITY IN THE DAIRY SECTOR

Exceptional production capacity and remarkable efficiency.

Originating in Holland, the Holstein is the dairy breed par excellence. This breed has won over breeders all over the world for its high dairy potential, which can reach over 10,000kg of milk in a single lactation. Holsteins are the leading dairy breed in France, with 2.6 million animals in the country, representing 64% of dairy cows in 2021. Recognized by their black piebald coat, there is also a red piebald variety (Red Holstein) that is becoming increasingly popular. Black and white variegation is highly variable, ranging from very limited (almost black animals) to very invasive (predominantly white animals).

Production

Over the years, the breed’s selection has been geared towards increasing milk production, with many changes. This is particularly true of morphology, since Friesians (the former name for Holsteins) were, at the time, considered to be a mixed breed, of medium size, a little more “muscular” and with lower milk production than today. They also had udders that were not as well supported, meaning that udder selection was not a primary selection criterion at the time.

Features

These animals display advantageous functional characteristics such as good mammary health, revealed by positive somatic cell indices and mastitis prevention. They also show high fertility scores, essential for the sustainability of dairy herds.

Morphology

Up to the present day, Holstein morphology has evolved towards larger, less meaty animals with more visible bones, capable of producing more milk to meet the demands of the food industry. This was accompanied by selection work on udder morphology to make them more suitable for robotic milking, with better attachment and optimal teat length.

Longevity and Health

Bulls of this breed are renowned for passing on longevity genes, meaning that their offspring tend to have an extended productive lifespan. In addition, high calving ease scores indicate that calves from this semen are more likely to be born without complications, reducing stress and costs for the farmer.

Functional features

Thanks to its excellent adaptability, this breed is present in all production systems: in lowland or small mountain farming, in conventional or organic systems, in barns year-round or on pastures; and in various feeding systems, ranging from an exclusive hay diet (which can be found in mountain farms or PDO areas) to preserved forages such as grass and maize silage.

Prim’Holstein is a breed that embodies innovation and productivity in the dairy sector, with genetic qualities that support high milk production, good health and morphological traits adapted to an intensive breeding environment. Its genetic heritage is essential for breeders seeking to continuously improve the performance and viability of their herds.