February 3, 2010

USDA grants US$24 million for animal research

USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) will provide US$24 million in grants to study animal heath, reproduction, breeding, genetics and nutrition.

Animal agriculture plays a crucial role in the success and growth of the nation's economy, accounting for 42% of forecast US agricultural receipts in 2009.

"The animal agriculture industry faces increasing challenges from animal diseases, reduced fertility, low nutrition and growth and non-tariff trade barriers," said Roger Beachy, NIFA director. "These grants will help the US maintain a strong, internationally competitive animal agriculture industry and lead to safer and more affordable animal products."

NIFA awarded the grants through four programme areas of the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative: Animal Reproduction Programme; Animal Genome, Genetics, and Breeding Programme; Animal Growth and Nutrient Utilisation Programme; and Integrated Solutions for Animal Agriculture Programme.

Animal programmes at NIFA address several critical issues, including food safety, international food security and environmental protection. The programme also works to ensure a safe food supply by targeting the reduction in pre-harvest food-borne pathogens. NIFA also contributes to international food security by supporting research to reduce animal diseases and improve animal production efficiencies.

Finally, these programmes play a critical role in global climate change and environmental stewardship by promoting the reduction of green house gases emissions and more efficient use of nutrients fed to animals.