Available online 10 February 2016
ABSTRACT
Major
advances in assisted reproductive technologies have improved
reproductive efficiency in dairy cattle. However, these developments
occurred regardless of the perception of consumers, who often distrust
biotechnology in food production. Therefore, the objective of this study
was to investigate consumers' attitudes toward reproductive management
practices in dairy cattle. In November 2012, 1,646 participants were
interviewed by a commercial market research institute. Participants were
selected from all regions and demographic categories to represent the
general public in Germany. Seven questions regarding milk-drinking
preferences and reproductive technologies were asked in face-to-face
interviews. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression
models were used. The majority of people drank milk at least weekly
(63%) and found the taste of milk important (60%). Most people perceived
advanced reproductive technologies negatively [e.g., the use of sexed
semen (53%), embryo transfer (58%), cloning (81%), and hormone
treatments to increase fertility (65%)]. Many people lacked basic
knowledge about milk production (22% did not know that cows only give
milk after calving; 51% did not know that milk naturally contains
hormones); however, participants with a high school education, older
participants, and those who had concerned themselves with dairy farming
were more knowledgeable. Education and providing information might help
to inform the public about reproductive management practices in dairy
cows.
Key words
- consumer attitude;
- consumer knowledge;
- reproductive technology;
- milk quality
Copyright © 2016 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved
