Specialists from the University of California are working on new tools to improve animal health and food safety, responding to recent challenges in food systems. On January 15, the Southwest Regional Food Business Center will hold a free webinar focused on how risk models and simulation can support the health of dairy cows.
The event is led by UC Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR), in partnership with Valley Vision and the UC Santa Cruz Center for Agroecology. The session will show how a model originally created to study highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) is being adapted for use in the dairy industry.
Experts will discuss the application of “digital twin” technology, which allows daily monitoring of cattle health. This approach makes it possible to identify sick animals before they show visible symptoms or reduced productivity.
According to organizers, early detection helps prevent disease spread, protects milk quality, and reduces economic losses for producers. They note that this method could be used in other products and stages of the food supply chain in the future.
“The Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of California (UC ANR) brings information and practices from UC to all 58 counties in California. Through research and Cooperative Extension in agriculture, natural resources, nutrition, economic development, and youth development, our mission is to improve the lives of all Californians,” states UC ANR.
The webinar targets dairy producers as well as those interested in food safety, animal health, and scientific approaches supporting agricultural communities. Registration details are available at https://swfoodbiz.org/events/center-events/.