While at the Central Plains Dairy Expo last week, I was walking around the trade show and ran across a booth that was reminding producers about the Dairy Beef Quality Assurance Program. Sponsored by the Midwest Dairy Beef Quality Assurance Center and the Minnesota Beef Council and funded by America’s beef producer checkoff dollars, this booth reminded dairy producers that they, too, are beef producers. It’s all about bridging the gap and embracing that as dairy producers, you carry a one-two punch as you put the milk in the glass and the steak on the dinner plate.

The 1999 National Market Cow and Bull Quality Audit showed that producers lost about $70 on every dairy cow they sold because of product defects like injection site blemishes. By following the 10 steps listed below, you will assure beef quality, prevent costly product losses, build public confidence, and enhance the effectiveness of the products you use to maintain the health of your herd.

1. Always choose the correct injection site.
2. Know the product and follow the label.
3. Stay away from the muscle.
4. Use the proper technique.
5. Use multiple sites.
6. Choose the correct needle.
7. Keep equipment clean.
8. NEVER combine products.
9. Mix and handle products correctly.
10. Keep detailed records.

For more information, contact the Midwest Dairy Beef Quality Assurance Center at:

2950 Metro Drive, Suite 102
Minneapolis, MN 55425
952-854-6980