Marianne Landzettel explains the long-term problems caused by a narrowing down of the genetic pool in cattle, such as vulnerability to disorders. Rare breeds possess a large number of traits that have long been bred out of the high-performance animals. Most rare breeds are regionally adapted and thrive in a particular landscape and climate, and eat the particular forage available there.
Local slaughterhouses struggle to keep ethical farming alive
The coronavirus pandemic has focused fresh attention on local supply chains, as well as the dangers of mass meat production. But without small-scale abattoirs, environmentally friendly farming could be at risk.
