DairyTalk 662: The Embryo Isn't the Biggest Cost: Why Recipient Utilization Drives ET Profitability - by Helmut Demmelhuber

DairyTalk by Helmut Demmelhuber · Sep 17, 2026 · 22m

This podcast episode is based on a technical article examining the economics behind embryo transfer programs in dairy herds. The analysis challenges the assumption that embryo price is the main factor determining profitability: a far greater cost can arise when prepared recipients never actually receive an embryo. Wisconsin data suggest that timed ET can outperform heat-detection-based programs economically by increasing recipient utilization and reducing missed transfer opportunities. Once hormones, treatments, labor, and cow days have already been invested, every unused recipient represents…