Exploring the Benefits of Bovine Appeasing Substance for Beef Cattle
Introduction
A recent project funded by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) and the Australian Lot Feeders Association (ALFA) investigated the effectiveness of the Bovine Appeasing Substance (BAS) in enhancing the production and health of beef cattle.
Research Findings
Lead researchers Associate Professor Ian Lean and Dr. Helen Golder conducted a meta-analysis titled Bovine Appeasing Substance: A Meta-Analysis of the Effects on Production, Health, and Stress Indicators. Their study aimed to determine the potential benefits of BAS on cattle wellbeing and stress levels.
Dr. Golder stated, “The meta-analysis utilized sufficient data to inform whether there are potential benefits of the substance and to identify areas requiring further research to establish statistical significance.”
Defining Bovine Appeasing Substance
BAS is a synthetic version of a pheromone naturally produced by lactating cows. This pheromone, released from a cow’s udder, is known for its calming effect on calves. Since 2022, the substance has primarily been marketed by US-based Fera Diagnostics & Biologicals but has not yet received registration in Australia.
Dr. Golder explained, “By applying the substance behind the ear or behind the poll of an animal four to six hours prior to a stressful event—such as transportation or weaning—it is expected to exert a calming influence on the animal.”
Key Discoveries
The project revealed that animals treated with BAS showed a significant reduction in blood cortisol, a stress indicator. “This reduction indicates potential improvements in animal welfare when the substance is applied before stressful management events,” Dr. Golder noted.
However, the analysis did not yield an overall enhancement in production or health metrics. This could stem from a limited number of experiments contributing to the meta-analysis and variability in the experimental designs.
“Some studies indicated improvements in body weight, lower mortality rates, and increased virus antibodies,” said Associate Professor Lean, suggesting possible benefits in both health and production through BAS use.
Although the dataset for this meta-analysis was relatively small, the number of scientific publications indicates a growing interest in this new technology.
Future Directions
Both researchers advocate for a randomized study across eight Australian feedlots to gain deeper insights into the product’s potential benefits. MLA is currently collaborating with Fera Diagnostics & Biologicals to explore possible research avenues in Australia with the aim of obtaining product registration.
Conclusion
The initial findings highlight BAS as a promising avenue for improving animal welfare during critical management events. With further research, there is potential for accompanying benefits in production and health.
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