Biosecurity in Dairy Farms: Essential for Disease Prevention and Milk Quality

Biosecurity in dairy farms is essential for preventing diseases and maintaining milk quality. The regulations imposed by the National Sanitary Veterinary and Food Safety Authority (ANSVSA) require quarantine areas, mandatory disinfection, strict access control, and complete animal traceability.

A study conducted in 2024 by the Institute for Diagnosis and Animal Health shows that only 62% of farms fully comply with these requirements. The most common issues are the lack of adequate quarantine spaces and incomplete use of electronic registers.

Large farms, with over 300 head of cattle, have a compliance rate of 85%, thanks to investments in infrastructure and qualified staff. In contrast, small farms, with fewer than 50 head, barely reach a compliance rate of 40%.

The costs of fully implementing biosecurity measures can range from €10,000 to €50,000, depending on the size of the farm. The funds available through the National Strategic Plan (PNS) include dedicated financing lines, but the uptake rate remains low.

Improving biosecurity is a mandatory condition for the competitiveness of the dairy industry and for protecting public health.

(Photo: Freepik)