DairyTalk 516: Too Focused on Balance? Why Holstein Breeding Cannot Ignore Production Performance - by Helmut Demmelhuber

DairyTalk by Helmut Demmelhuber · Jul 1, 2026 · 16m

This podcast episode is based on an article by Helmut Demmelhuber examining the balance between production and functional traits in modern Holstein breeding. At the center of the discussion is whether current breeding goals place enough value on the economic contribution of high milk and component production. The article argues that health and fertility traits are essential for reducing losses, but that profitability ultimately depends on cows generating strong production returns. It also questions whether an excessive focus on balance could unintentionally limit the use of exceptional…