AI the key to foodservice?
Could smaller foodservice operators take advantage of the benefits of artificial intelligence (AI)?
Gallagher Group has always been at the forefront of innovations and effective solutions for livestock farmers.
At the Southern Fieldays the company will exhibit in the Farmlands Village, showcasing its latest ideas for dairy herd mating and electric fencing solutions.
The Flashmate electronic heat detector is aimed at farmers wishing to improve their herd's six week calving rates and AI detection. The standalone, lightweight disposable device is placed on the animals' rump where it constantly monitors cow heat behaviour during the mating season.
Using technology similar to a touch screen on a smartphone, and working with a smart microchip that identifies specific patterns of riding activity – including frequency, number and time – the unit flashes red for 26 hours, indicating the animal is ready for AI.
"Following a limited release in 2015, feedback has been positive, and while farmers can't control the weather or the milk price, upping their six-week in-calf rate from 65% to 75% can result in a payback of $60 per cow per year," explains Gallagher national
sales manager Peter Nation.
Out in the paddock, a number of solutions to everyday fencing problems should prove popular, including the S20 portable solar energiser, which builds on the technology first seen in the smaller S10 unit and can pack a punch for 1.2ha or 2km. The device will suit those who don't want to use a battery powered unit, but who need up to three weeks without sunshine once its integral battery is charged up.
Complementing the energiser, Gallagher has come up with a new dual-purpose insulated handle that uses a ring-shaped design to stop the perennial problem of portable fences 'bouncing' off the permanent wire when they are being deployed.
A high visibility sighter will also be on display – a plastic globe that clips onto temporary or permanent lines to indicate their presence and alleviate accidents
Meat processor Alliance Group is asking farmer shareholders to inject more capital in order to remain a 100% co-operative.
A vet is calling for all animals to be vaccinated against a new strain of leptospirosis (lepto) discovered on New Zealand dairy farms in recent years.
Dairy
Rural banker Rabobank is partnering with Food Rescue Kitchen on a new TV series which airs this weekend that aims to shine a light on the real and growing issues of food waste, food poverty and social isolation in New Zealand.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.
World Veterinary Day falls on Saturday 27 April.
OPINION: The new government has clearly signalled big cuts across the public service.
OPINION: Your canine crusader is not surprised by the recent news that New Zealand plant-based ‘fake meat’ business is in…