Farmer s Weekly 40 HerdMASTER 31 In Vitro Africa 20 Kobe Wagyu 15 Landbouweekblad 23 Oasis Collection Centre (Pty) Ltd 44 Platinum Beef

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3 INHOUD Contents Messsage from the incoming Chairman/ Boodskap van die intredende Voorsitter 2 From the CEO s desk/van die HUB se lessenaar 6 Truscott s Corner 10 From the Office 17 Up your game in terms of quality assurance 21 Wagyu beef - the king & queen of protein 25 Wagyu Beef Genomics day at Sernick/ Wagyu Vleisbees Genomika dag by Sernick 29 Moving from Microsatellite Markers to Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNP) 30 Bestuursgroepe (Management groups) 33 The Wagyu Beef Genomics Program 37 The economics of feed efficiency 38 Can we actually produce beef that reduces the risk of Cardio Vascular Disease? 41 Huistoegaan boodskap - Aldam Veeskool Wat is genetiese vordering? 49 History and Benefits of Akaushi Cattle 54 Like us on Twitter and Facebook for more info AS-IT-HAPPENS! ADVERTEERDERS Advertisements Wagyu South Africa Absolute Genetics 8 Allflex 12 Atka Stoet/Stud 48 Axxon/Tru-test 27 Beyond Beef 4 Branson Wagyu Cattle 24 Certified Wagyu Breeders 19 Clinomics 35 ebuthlanti Wagyu Breeders 16 Embrio Plus 32 Farmer s Weekly 40 HerdMASTER 31 In Vitro Africa 20 Kobe Wagyu 15 Landbouweekblad 23 Oasis Collection Centre (Pty) Ltd 44 Platinum Beef OBC Polo IFC Purdon Wagyu Angus Beef 47 Rising Sun 7 Rudd products 36 Sumo Wagyu 52 Synergy 3 Tal-tec 43 Veeplaas 39 Voermol 51 Woodview Wagyu 11 Opinions expressed in the Wagyu Update are not necessarily the view of the Wagyu Society of South Africa. Wagyu SA does not accept responsibility for any of the claims made in advertisements. Brought to you by The Wagyu Society of South Africa Tel: +27 (0) office@wagyu.org.za Web: Coordination of Publication Firefly Publications (Pty) Ltd - Charmainé Alberts Tel: +27 (0) palberts@telkomsa.net Design & Layout: Caria Vermaak 3

4 Colleagues, your newly elected Board held their first meeting on the 2 nd of October. We were privileged to be hosted by Fleishery in Centurion at their new facility (deboning, processing, packaging plant and restaurant) where quality products of Beyond Beef are also on offer. During this board meeting the respective portfolio chairman reported on completion and progress of tasks in line with WSA s strategic plan. Breed Improvement, Social development, Marketing, Certified Wagyu Beef and Corporate affairs were the main topics. Some highlights were the progress in negotiations involving Nampo with a three-year lease of the Cattle Auction building. For the first time WSA will be represented at Nampo and marketing is planning an exhibition of note where members will also be involved. The theme will be on Wagyu meat and the consumer. The 2019 calendar is finalised and available on our website and in this Newsletter. Breed improvement with the support of Sernick, hosted a very informative day where 80+ Wagyu bulls and oxen are currently participating in a feed conversion study. Presentations were done by Prof. Esté Köster, Dr. Bradfield, Izaan du Plooy, Johan Styger and Dr. Phillip Strydom. Participants left with a positive perspective of the Beef Genomics Program (BGP). Dr. Neil van Zyl and his committee is planning a second information day at Sernick where further information on the BGP and results of the feed intake study will be discussed. Social development, under the leadership of Georgina Jeurissen, identified projects that meet the minimum requirements set for WSA to support and guide. They are also in negotiations with the Department of Kollegas, julle nuutverkose Raad se eerste raadsvergadering is op 2 Oktober te Fleishery se nuwe perseel in Centurion (verwerkingsaanleg, slaghuis en restaurant) gehou. Uiteraard is Fleishery ook n trotse agent en verspreider van Beyond Beef se gehalte produkte. Tydens die raadsvergadering is daar verslag gedoen deur die onderskeie voorsitters oor die vordering en voltooiing van doelwitte in lyn met ons strategiese plan. Rasverbetering, sosiale ontwikkeling, bemarking en Certified Wagyu Beef is die hoof onderwerpe wat bespreek is. Enkele hoogtepunte is die onderhandelinge met Nampo wat goed gevorder het vir die gebruik van die Veeveilingsgebou vir die volgende drie jaar. WSA gaan vir die eerste keer uitstal by Nampo en dit gaan n gróót een wees, met die fokus op vleis en die eindverbruiker. Die kalender is ook gefinaliseer en is beskikbaar op WSA se webtuiste en in hierdie nuusbrief. Rasverbetering, in samewerking met Sernick, het n baie insiggewende dag aangebied waar 70+ Wagyu bulle en osse tans deelneem aan n voerdoeltreffendheidstoets. Sprekers was Prof. Esté Köster, Izaan du Plooy, Johan Styger, Philip Strydom en Dr. Bradfield. Lede sal vroeg in 2019 weer genooi word deur Dr. Neil van Zyl en sy CHAIRMAN S REPORT Voorsittersverslag - Frans Stapelberg 4

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7 Agriculture regarding funding. This is a project where all members can involve themselves. Please feel free to contact Georgina for more information. Certified Wagyu Beef, registered as a Non-Profitable Company (NPC), held a meeting on 17 September, open to all members, to raise and come up with solutions regarding concerns and implementation of the CWB protocol. Subsequent changes to accommodate breeders, producers and other role-players in the value chain has been made and widely accepted. SAMIC has been appointed as watchdog overseeing compliance to the protocol, which will be approved at the next board meeting on 4 th December. The support and potential of CWB is indicative of its success. CWB will take ownership of the New Japanese MIJ-30 Camera in February Expect more announcements regarding CWB early in December. Gerhard van der Burgh is keeping a watchful eye on finance and corporate governance. The Board has also formally decided to adopt and apply the principles and management values of the King IV Commission. Adopting the principles meant that chairmen of portfolio committees had to be formally appointed with legal responsibilities. I am privileged to chair a hardworking innovative Board, with Michael as CEO. We were appointed by you the members of the WSA and are always at your service. FRANS STAPELBERG Chairman/Voorsitter komitee vir verdere inligting rakende die toets, asook die vordering met genomiese toetse (SNP) waaroor almal teenwoordig baie positief was. Sosiale ontwikkeling het projekte geïdentifiseer waarin hul betrokke kan raak en is tans besig met gesprekke met die Departement van Landbou aangaande befondsing. Hierdie is n geleentheid vir enige lid om n bydrae te lewer; lede wat belangstel kan gerus vir Georgina Jeurissen kontak. Certified Wagyu Beef, wat nou geregistreer is as n Nie-Winsgewende Maatskappy, het op 17 September vergader waartydens haakplekke met die protokol en lisensie-ooreenkoms aangespreek is. Veranderinge om telers en produsente, asook ander rolspelers in die waardeketting te akkommodeer is aangebring, sonder om die integriteit en doel van die projek in gedrang te bring. SAMIC is aangestel as waghond en die gewysigde protokol sal tydens hul volgende vergadering op 4 Desember deur die WSA Raad goedgekeur word. CWB neem ontvangs van die nuwe Japanese Kamera in Februarie Verskeie gesprekke en onderhandelinge is gehou met voerkrale, verwerkers en supermarkte; die belangstelling en ondersteuning vanaf die produsente en ander rolspelers maak ons as WSA baie opgewonde vir die toekoms. Verwag meer aankondigings rakende CWB vroeg in Desember! Uiteraard hou Gerhard van der Burgh n wakende oog oor finansies en korporatiewe sake. Die Raad het ook formeel besluit om die beginsels en waardes van die King IV Kommissie te aanvaar wat gevolglik formele aanstellings en wetlike verantwoordelikhede aan die Raad en portefeulje voorsitters toedeel. Ek is bevoorreg om n hardwerkende en innoverende Raad te lei, met Michael as HUB. Ons is deur julle as lede aangestel en is altyd beskikbaar. 7

8 From the CEO s Desk Van die HUB se lessenaar - Dr Michael Bradfield The more I work with Wagyu, and read the many articles published internationally, the more I am convinced that there should also be a strong focus on selecting on the components of meat quality and not just on increased marbling. What makes Wagyu special, is not only the increased marbling, but the type of fatty acids that make up the marbling. Prof. Tim Noakes did our country a huge favour when pushing the virtue of a low carbohydrate, high fat diet. I was also privileged to attend a talk from Dr. Celeste Jansen van Rensburg a few weeks ago. Dr. Jansen van Rensburg is the deputy director of the Free State Academy of Sport and assists many of the provincial teams (Free State and Griquas Rugby for example) with their eating plans. She is a strong advocate of a Low Carb High Fat (LCHF) eating plan and her message is that the international trend is changing away from carbohydrates as the main source of a meal, to increased fat. There is no evidence that the increased prevalence of obesity is caused by increased fat. This is where Wagyu can have a niche market, similar to what the avocado industry is experiencing. Although an avocado is high in fat the public is now sold on the idea that it is high in the good, healthy fat. In fact, Dr. Jansen van Rensburg advocates that avocado and meat (beef, pork and chicken with the skin) can be eaten until you are no longer hungry and Hoe meer ek met Wagyu werk, en die baie artikels wat internasionaal gepubliseer word lees, hoe meer is ek daarvan oortuig dat daar ook sterk klem moet wees op die seleksie vir die komponente van vleiskwaliteit, en nie net op verhoogde marmering nie. Wat Wagyu spesiaal maak is nie net die verhoogde marmering nie maar die tipe vetsure wat die marmering uitmaak. Prof. Tim Noakes het ons land n groot guns bewys toe hy die voordele van n lae-koolhidraat, hoë-vet dieet gepromoveer het. Ek was ook bevoorreg om n praatjie van Dr. Celeste Jansen van Rensburg n paar weke gelede by te woon. Dr. Jansen van Rensburg is die adjunk-direkteur van die Vrystaatse Sportakademie en help baie van die provinsiale spanne (byvoorbeeld Vrystaat en Griekwas rugby) met hul eetplanne. Sy is n sterk voorstander van n lae koolhidraat hoë vet (LCHF) eetplan en haar boodskap is dat die internasionale neiging verander van koolhidrate as die hoofbron van n ete, na vet. Dit is waar Wagyu n nismark kan hê, soortgelyk aan wat die avokado vir alle diëte gedoen het. Alhoewel n avokado vol vet is, is die publiek nou oortuig dat dit hoog in die goeie, gesonde vet is. Trouens, Dr. Jansen Van Rensburg beweer dat Avokado en vleis (beesvleis, varkvleis en hoender met die vel) geëet kan word totdat die honger heeltemal gestil is. Die eetlus met hoë vet diëte word baie langer gedemp as wanneer koolhidrate geëet word. Wat Wagyu spesiaal maak, is dat dit hoë vlakke van oleïne- 8

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11 it also satisfies the hunger for far longer periods than carbohydrates. What makes Wagyu special is that it has high levels of oleic (30% higher than all other beef breeds) and also linoleic acid and the ratio of mono-unsaturated (the good fat) to saturated fat (not so good) is higher in Wagyu than other beef breeds (greater than 1.2). Linoleic acid, an Omega 3 fatty acid, has been shown to have anti-carcinogenic properties as well as being an anti-inflammatory agent. Most of us have heard that Wagyu fat melts below body temperature and provides a rich, smooth eating experience. Prof. Arno Hugo is South Africa s meat science fat expert and I have asked him to assist Wagyu with numerous projects that we intend to launch in the next few years. The costs associated with breeding Wagyu is higher than in any other breed. Animals spend a significant period of time in a feedlot and marbling percentage can only be measured on the carcass. The genetic correlation between growth and marbling is negative. The Wagyu is thus ideally suited to adopting the proven science of genomics because potential selection candidates can be selected early in life (even at birth) with increased accuracy. Genomics requires good phenotypic data. We had a very successful genomics day at Sernick and I would like to thank our producers for the good turnout. The breed improvement committee will put a lot of effort into convincing producers to submit good performance data over the next five years. It should start with recording your birth, weaning and final weights. Also, the weight of the cows at weaning. We also look forward to the new MIJ-30 camera so that we can record objective carcass measurements into the Breedplan system. We have also updated all the birth-, data transfer- and carcass Excel forms that are available on the web. If you have more than 50 cows, we strongly encourage you to consider a Breedplan endorsed herd management program. Wagyu is an exciting breed to be associated with and next year promises to be an exciting year with Nampo, the Royal show, ALFA Expo, the Bathurst show, Stockman s school and the annual Conference at the Nampo show grounds in the mix. We trust that those that celebrate Christmas will enjoy their Christmas break and on behalf of the office we wish you a happy Christmas and all members a prosperous Wagyu new year. en linoleïnsuur het (30% hoër as al die ander beesrasse) en die verhouding van mono-onversadigde- (die goeie vet) tot versadigde vet (nie so goed nie) is ver hoër in Wagyu as in ander beesrasse (groter as 1.2). Navorsing het gewys dat linoleïnsuur anti-kankerverwekkende eienskappe het, sowel as anti-inflammatoriese eienskappe. Die meeste van ons verstaan dat Wagyuvet onder liggaamstemperatuur smelt en n ryk, gladde eetervaring aan die verbruiker bied. Prof. Arno Hugo is n Suid-Afrikaanse vleiswetenskaplike wat veral in vet belangstel en ek het hom gevra om Wagyu te ondersteun met talle projekte wat ons van plan is om in die volgende paar jaar te begin. Die koste verbonde aan die teel van Wagyu is hoër as in enige ander ras. Diere spandeer n beduidende tydperk in n voerkraal en die persentasie marmering kan slegs op die karkas gemeet word. Die genetiese korrelasie tussen groei en marmering is negatief. Die Wagyu is dus ideaal om die bewese wetenskap van genomika te gebruik aangesien potensiële seleksiekandidate vroeg in hul lewe (selfs by geboorte) met groter akkuraatheid geselekteer kan word. Genomika vereis egter goeie fenotipiese data. Ons het in hierdie verband n baie suksesvolle genomiese dag by Sernick gehad en ek wil graag ons produsente bedank vir die goeie opkoms. Die Rasverbeteringskomitee sal baie moeite oor die volgende vyf jaar doen om produsente te oortuig om goeie prestasiedata in te dien. Dit moet begin met die opname van jou geboorte-, speen- en finale gewigte. Weeg ook die koeie by die speen van die kalwers. Ons sien ook uit na die nuwe Japanese MIJ-30 kamera sodat ons objektiewe karkasmetings in die Breedplan-stelsel kan opneem. Ons het ook al die vorms vir die geboorte-, data-oordrag- en karkasinligting wat op die web beskikbaar is opgedateer. As jy meer as 50 koeie het raai ons jou egter sterk aan om n Breedplan-geëndosseerde kuddebestuursprogram te oorweeg. Wagyu is n opwindende ras om mee geassosieer te wees en volgende jaar beloof om n opwindende jaar te wees met Nampo, die Royal skou, ALFA Expo, die Bathurst-skou, Veeskool en die Wagyu konferensie op die Nampo-vertoon terrein. Ons vertrou dat diegene wat Kersfees vier hul Kersfees sal geniet en namens die kantoor wens ons hulle n gelukkige Kersfees, en alle lede n voorspoedige Wagyu-nuwe jaar toe. DR MICHAEL BRADFIELD CEO/HUB 11

12 Each year the Australian Wagyu Association (AWA) conducts a technical workshop along with its Annual General Meeting. This year these events were held in Armidale on 31 October with the workshop focusing on nutrition and genetics. Nutrition The Nutrition Workshop was presented by Dr. John Doyle, Integrated Animal Production, based in Australia. John is an internationally recognised animal nutritionist and has worked in South Africa advising feedlots and understands the South African environment. His focus was on Wagyu slaughter animal production to feedlot entry, where he emphasised the need to consider the nutritional needs of the entire animal life cycle: dam pre-joining and rising plane of nutrition to maximise fertility, fertilisation, foetal programming, and birth to feedlot entry. Foetal Programming After fertilisation, Foetal Programming, or the nutrition required to maximise organ, muscle and fat cell development, is considered critical for the later potential genetic expression of the animal s growth and carcase capabilities. The Japanese slaughter Wagyu at months; hence 25% of the progeny s life is spent in-utero, underlining the importance of appropriate nutrition prior and during foetal development. Critical periods include: At 210 days of gestation, foetal development has created the total number of muscle fibre cells for the progeny s entire life-time. Those cells then continue enlarging in size through gestation, birth and into maturity. Gestation days (last 60 days) sees massive foetal growth, increasing in size by additional 75% (i.e. synchronizing body tissues with organ development). Limiting feed/energy during this period increases in connective tissue causing increased meat toughness; also suppressing size of muscle cells and number of marbling fat cells. Late gestation to calving at 250 days of age is the marbling window which establishes the number of marbling fat cells (i.e. adipocytes). Those cells then continue enlarging in size from birth into maturity. Dependent upon severity of feed deficiency during final 5 months of pregnancy, muscle fibre and fat cell development will be suppressed; primarily depleting muscle fibres and fat cells as well as altering brain and organ size during final 2 months of gestation. Human tragedy (Dutch Famine, 1945) observed mothers and children with extreme calorie depravation. Babies born to seriously mal-nourished mothers during this period observed early infant mortality and later-in-life chronic disease conditions including: cardio vascular disease, Diabetes Type II, high blood pressure and Schizophrenia. In general, major feed energy obtained from carbohydrates, protein and fat, is critical to the utilisation of all other nutrients. Major minerals and trace elements are often over-looked in nutrition; yet are essential for body function. Many minerals are not well stored in the body; hence supplementation is required for efficient utilization of feed consumed (e.g. reproductive efficiency, lactation, bone development, body condition score, weaning weight, etc.). Post-birth Key stages of post-birth development are: By 12 months of age the calf is at 55-60% of mature body size By 18 months the majority of critical tissue development has occurred By 26 months muscle, bone and organs are developed (99.9%) Post 26 months of age excess feed/energy intake is deposited as greater levels of body fat (i.e. not necessarily increasing marbling cells size) Cattle exceeding 32% total body fat become susceptible to metabolic diseases (e.g. Diabetes Type II). 12

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15 These stages have major implications for feed type requirements to optimise development. Growth curve stages are clearly demonstrated in the following Age to maturity graph. Source: Dr. John Doyle, Integrated Animal Production (Oct. 2018) Creep feeding for calves Creep feeding for calves can be highly beneficial, providing nutrients during limited feed availability, enhancing digestive organ function followed by increased body weight and larger eye muscle (Longissimus dorsi) area. Early Weaning Calves Calves can be weaned and fed when very young (i.e. weaned at 3-5 months or kgs body weight). These young calves are fed at approximately 1.3% of body weight of high energy concentrate feed with hay. Animals that have been early weaned and fed are trained for life to accept supplementary feed and readily consume feed within the feedlot. New Wagyu BreedObject Indices AWA has undertaken extensive R&D into Wagyu genetic analysis since 2012, in association with the Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU) and the Agricultural Business Research Institute (ABRI) at the University of New England. Extensive carcase data was added, the Carcase Weight and Eye Muscle Area EBVs improved, and new Marble Score and Marbling Fineness EBVs added. A rudimentary Terminal Carcase Index was implemented until the new EBVs could be included in the BreedObject software which produces all other BREEDPLAN indices. AGBU BreedObject specialist Dr. Brad Wormsley was instrumental in the development of new Wagyu indices and explained their uses. Fullblood Self-replacing Index: For the production of profitable cows which produce good growth and high marbling progeny Will drive Milk down slightly due to key emphasis on weight and marbling Can increase Retail Beef Yield, EMA and Marbling together. Fullblood Terminal Index: For good growth and high marbling progeny, destined for slaughter and high-quality beef production No consideration of maternal traits. F1 Terminal Index: For good growth and high marbling Wagyu F1 progeny, destined for slaughter and 15

16 high-quality beef production No consideration of maternal traits Recognises that F1 s spend less time on feedlot feeding (e.g. 350 days compared to Fullbloods at 450+ days on feed) Marbling is the highest impact Improves Retail Beef Yield Will drive growth down slightly as the index relies on the non-wagyu dam delivering the major growth drivers. These new indices will be of major benefit to South African Wagyu breeders, particularly the Fullblood Self-replacing Index for seedstock producers needing a stronger maternal cow base. The F1 Terminal Index will assist commercial bull buyers, given most Wagyu slaughter cattle production will be F1 using non-wagyu dams. MIJ-30 Carcass Camera Aaron van der Heuval, AWA Carcass Camera Technician, demonstrated the latest Japanese digital carcass camera and explained that AWA is currently taking orders for the cameras from members. He expects to train the camera owners and implement their use in Australian Wagyu processing abattoirs by end December The hand-held camera takes an image of the eye muscle in the cut-section at either the 4 th /5 th or 12 th /13 th rib and sends the image in real-time to Japan for analysis. The analysis will return AUS-meat Marble Score (AWA is currently confirming the Marbling Percent to Marble Score calculation algorithm with AUS-Meat), Marbling Percent, Eye Muscle Area and Marbling Fineness. These measures will be used for in-line carcase grading into boning groups and for input into Wagyu BREEDPLAN to further enhance the genetic analysis. South African purchase and implementation of the camera will enable accurate inclusion of carcass data into Wagyu BREEDPLAN. Acknowledgement: Dr. John Doyle, Integrated Animal Production s, review and enhancement of the Nutrition component of this document is very much appreciated. AWA Carcass Camera Technician Aaron van der Heuval demonstrating the latest MIJ-30 Carcass Camera and the images taken. 16

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19 FROM THE Office IVONNE VAN TONDER Office Manager Protocol for registering births, DNA collection and Birth Registrations [For all Seedstock Certified Wagyu Beef members] 1. Order your Certified Wagyu Beef (CWB) tags Order your CWB tags from the office at least one month before calving. You will also need to order a Tag applicator, and a separate DNA applicator Also ensure that you request and receive a Tag Bucket File from the office, i.e. the list of Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) ICAR approved electronic tag numbers. The tag bucket file is an Excel file that contains the RFID Tag numbers that you will use in your registration files to match the animal identification number with the RFID (electronic) number (point 7 below). Ensure that you get a tag bucket file with you electronic ID s from the office. You need to match these with your own animal Identification number. 2. Weigh the calf within 48 hours The birth weight should be recorded within 24 to 48 hours. Many producers will use a small pocket book to record the ID, Mothers ID and the birth weight. A spring scale can be obtained from a vet office or contact axxon@global.co.za for a quote. 33 Apply RFID and management tags after the calf is born Tag the calf after birth (when dry). Calves must be tagged with a CWB tag at least a month after birth (you may initially insert a small metal tag and tag it a two to three weeks later). Insert the radio button tag into the LEFT ear and the Management tag into the RIGHT ear Mark the tag with your Prefix (for example RSS), Year of Birth and a sequential numerical number for example RSS181.This is called the unique calf identification number. You may want to add the Sire ID and Dam ID on the tag as desired. In the event that the tag does gets lost, contact the office and they will arrange, at a small cost, that a new tag is reissued with the same RFID number. 19

20 4. Take a DNA tissue sample for a SNP test and storage, and a hair sample for parentage Taking a TSU is a separate proses to the above but is taken at the same time (The TSU is now the preferred method of obtaining DNA samples because they are easy to use, obtain good quality DNA and the samples can be reused) Instructions for taking a TSU are given on the Wagyu Website ResourceCenter/Forms&Reports Take a pencil thick, hair sample from the twitch of the tail and put it into either the Clinomics or Unistel envelope. Ensure you have the roots. Tip: collect your own hair sample and store them in a cool dry, place. They will be valuable in years to come. Instructions for blood, semen and hair are given on the Wagyu Website: 7. Fill in the Calf registration form and submit to Society If you have less than approximately 50 animals, it will probably be easier to use the Society endorsed Excel spreadsheet that includes births, embryo s and the results of the DNA parentage. You have 6 months from birth date to submit you births, FREE OF CHARGE, or you will be liable for a late registration fee. The birth notification form can be found at: Birth Notification Excel Form If you have more than approximately 50 animals, it is recommended that you use a herd management program. The Society endorsed program is HerdMASTER, a BREEDPLAN product with a support office in South Africa. Tag the calf after birth (when dry). Calves must be tagged with a CWB tag at least a month after birth with a RFID tag, management tag and a Tissue Sample needs to be collected on each calf. 5. Fill in the DNA and parentage forms Fill in the Clinomics or Unistel form i.e. nominate your preference for parentage. (form at bottom right of page) (Wagyu)_Testing.pdf Fill in the form for storage of the TSU for the Beef Genomics Project (Available on the Wagyu website). Note SNP testing using a 50K SNP is expected to be available in the first quarter of (Storage Submission Form) (Animal Information Form) (PLEASE NOTE THAT THE PARENTAGE TEST WITH A MICROSATELITE WILL NEED TO BE REDONE WITH A SNP IF A GENOMIC RESULT IS REQUIRED. THE SNP TEST WILL BE AVAILABLE IN 2019) 6. Submit samples Samples can be submitted to: No 9 Genius Loci Officepark 6 CP Hoogenhoutstraat Langenhoven Park Bloemfontein Tel

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23 Up your game in terms of QUALITY ASSURANCE - FRANS STAPELBERG Supply and demand is one of the most important aspects driving a free trading economy. The rise in available food sources, specifically protein, has been followed by differences in diet composition, with protein intake being on the rise (Smil, 2000). The demand for Wagyu is rapidly increasing in South Africa and with this increased demand comes the responsibility of supplying a high value product that meets all standards of production and the requirements of the end consumer. With all protein sources there are certain factors that drive the price - quality and availability of these products. Some of the factors include GM (genetically modified), free range, grass fed, growth hormones, ethically produced and certification. When it comes to the end consumer, quality and price are two of the most important factors in their decision making. When it comes to Wagyu, quality is the single most important factor. It is difficult in making international consumption comparisons due to variations in the approach involved in ascertaining consumption figures in all countries. The figures in the graph below are a review of worldly patterns and trends and how they are likely to project forward (Kearney, 2010). The prices of the different protein sources are based on current market and retail prices. Estimated global consumption, Price & Quality demand variations for different protein sources 23

24 Increases in income and lower prices have resulted in increased consumption of protein sources (Du et al., 2004). The above graph illustrates how the price and quality demand of a product can have a significant influence on the overall consumption of different protein sources. It is evident that the lower the price, the higher the consumption, this is supported by the current state of the economy in South Africa. Looking at the three most consumed protein sources in SA (poultry, pork and beef), the price and quality demand of the protein are similar. As the price of the different protein sources increase, the level of quality demanded for that product becomes more apparent. Individuals who are well informed can make a choice between different sources, while the lower income class have fewer protein choices due to their limited disposable income (Du et al., 2004) Thus, it is the consumer setting these standards and influencing the demand. The trend over the past few decades indicate that a more healthy diet is being favoured. (Lallukka et al., 2009). There exists a clear pattern of health-conscious responses leading to health-driven behavioural differences. A study done by Marmot in 2002 indicates that income is closely related to health and quality of protein sources through its effect on social participation. Consumers that are willing to pay more for a specific product will demand that the product be of the highest quality, no matter the price. It may be concluded that the product with the highest price, will have a greater demand for the highest and best quality of that specific product. Wagyu, in any country, is a niche product. When considering the different global consumer groups for each protein source, Wagyu consumers may be the smallest group but have by far the most influence on the quality demanded from the producers of the product. Producers who are willing and able to up their production game by meeting or exceeding the consumer s minimum requirements for quality would then generally benefit financially, distinguish themselves from the rest of the producers, and establish a good reputation in this niche market. At the 2016 AGM of Wagyu SA, the members identified that the certification of Wagyu products are essential for meeting the set demands for red meat (Wagyu) positioned at the most expensive side of the red meat industry price scale. As the first of its kind in Africa, and outside of Japan, Wagyu South Africa has established Certified Wagyu Beef (CWB), a registered non-profit organisation wholly owned by Wagyu SA. The goal of CWB is to provide assurance that SA Wagyu products are of the highest quality. CWB is responsible for reporting to its members, feedlots, abattoirs, retailers and end consumers about the quality of Wagyu products in SA. Wagyu consumers will thus be assured of a high value quality product, that is humanely produced in line with the standards that prohibits the use of growth hormones, routinely fed antibiotics and the feeding of animal by-products. We, as Wagyu producers have upped our game in order to meet customer requirements regarding quality. This specific certification process has been implemented in order to uphold the value chain and high standards set for quality production of this exclusive, high-end product. SAMIC (South African Meat Industy Company) has been appointed as the independent inspection authority to uphold the protocols set for the production of this niche product in the red meat industry. CWB has already commenced with the implementation of this protocol. Our aim with CWB is that product displaying the Registered Certification Logo will become available within the next couple of months. The consumer will be able to scan the barcode on the registered CWB logo, allowing the consumer to view full traceability of the packaged wagyu product. By upping your game in terms of quality assurance, future demand for wagyu products will increase. References: 1. Smil V., In: Feeding the world. A challenge for the twenty-first century. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press. 2. Kearney J., Food security: Feeding the world in Food consumption trends and drivers. 365, Du S., Mroz T. A., Zhai F. & Popkin B. M., Rapid income growth adversely affects diet quality in China - particularly for the poor! Social Sci. Med. 59, Lallukka T., Laaksonen M., Rahkonen O., Roos E. & Lahelma E., Multiple socio-economic circumstances and healthy food habits. Cent. Eur. J. Public Health 17, Marmot M., The influence of income on health: views of an epidemiologist. Health Aff. (Millwood) 21,

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27 the KING & QUEEN of PROTEIN The rising demand for Wagyu in South Africa continues unabated and a visit to the Cape Wagyu stand at the ALFA Livestock Expo in Parys or the Woodview stand at the Fire and Feast Meat Festival at The Dome in Johannesburg would have convinced you that it will take years to meet the demand for this unique product. The Wagyu Society of South Africa has calculated that it will take at least carcasses for us to penetrate 5% of the market. Demand for Wagyu internationally is stronger than ever, and Wagyu is now firmly entrenched in the high-value segment of the global meat and food market. All four of the large retailers in South Africa are either already selling the Wagyu product or are in the process of putting the supply chain together to sell Wagyu. The challenge for the Wagyu Society was to ensure that producers have access to markets, either direct to market through their own supply chains or via feedlots. Sparta, Beefmaster, Cavalier Foods, Beefcor and Morgan Beef are all now feeding, or have offered to feed, Wagyu weaners for producers. Some of the feedlots pay up to a 30% premium for F1 weaners (depending on the genetics used and the base breed used for crossing), others feed on consignment and one of the feedlots has a share scheme whereby they share the feed costs and profit of a carcass. Educating the consumer South African consumers have been taught, from an early age, that fat is bad for you. However, the tide has turned and consumers now recognize that it s the type of fat that is important. A product such as avocados are high in fat, but contain mainly unsaturated (specifically mono-unsaturated) fat which, when eaten in place of high saturated fat foods, can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Olive and rapeseed oils are other well-known sources of mono-unsaturated fats and we now understand that Wagyu is also a source of healthy fat when consumed in moderation. The mono-unsaturated to saturated fat ratio is higher in Wagyu than in other beef and even the saturated fat contained in Wagyu is different. Forty percent of the fat is in a version called stearic acid, which is regarded as having a minimal impact in raising cholesterol levels. The profile of marbled Wagyu beef is therefore more beneficial to human health and can be described as a healthier type of meat. Wagyu is also higher in a type of fatty acid called conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). Dr. Crowe, an international expert from the Deakin University School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences in Melbourne, says that CLA has been shown to have potent anti-carcinogenic properties, 27

28 as well as being an anti-inflammatory agent. Whilst eating lots of CLA in Wagyu is not necessarily going to cure cancer or diabetes or make you lose weight there is no doubt that CLA has a strong potential for human health benefits in the future. By promoting foods naturally high in CLA there are very few negative health effects, but the potential is there for substantial positive health benefits. Beef, the king of protein Beef today remains the protein of celebration and while it is three times more expensive than chicken, or twice as expensive as pork, it is still celebrated as the king of protein craved by consumers. The reality is that beef owns taste and taste is still the number one driver of consumer satisfaction. When we think about taste we think about flavour, juiciness and tenderness. These three components are considered the trifactor of palatability, and marbling is the driver of all three components. Both the American and Australian beef grading system have marbling as their most important driver to ensure a good eating experience. More than 25% of Wagyu carcasses grade in the top 1% of the Meat Standards Australia (MSA) system and the other 75% grade in the top 5%. In the USA system where meat is graded as Select, Choice and Prime, Wagyu Carcasses typically exceeds the Prime category because of its abundant marbling. International demand for Wagyu still increasing The rising popularity of Wagyu beef has meant it is found on the menus of many top restaurants in cities around the world and as more people enjoy the product, demand increases and this is continuing to push up the price. Japan, one of the major exporters of Wagyu and Kobe beef (Wagyu produced specifically from the Kobe region), has seen the price increase from an average R240 in 2012 to R355 in December 2017 as per Fig 1 below. The rising middle-class consumers in China, South East Asia and the Middle East means that they now have purchasing power and can afford to buy Wagyu. Demand in Europe remains strong and the Wagyu product is now consistently seen at food trade fairs. Opportunities for South African producers With our lower feed costs, compared to our international peers, South Africa is well placed to meet some of the international demand. The question often asked by pundits is when the international market will become saturated. Globally, there are probably around 2.5 million Wagyu (including the first crosses called F1 s) with the bulk of 1.65 million being in Japan. Australia has around cattle and the USA South Africa is starting from a low base with an estimated Wagyu cattle (including the F1 s). In total, this represents less than 0.2% of the global population. The price of Wagyu in Japan has increased from an average R240 in 2012 to R355 in December 2017 and is expected to continue rising for at least the next two decades as consumers discover the product on menus throughout the world. A word of warning There are a few critical factors that needs to be followed to ensure that the product will meet market requirements and obtain a premium. It starts with the correct genetics, looking after the mothers before birth, possibly creep feeding the calves and an optimal feeding regime up to the age of 2.5 years. Getting the product to market thus takes time and prospective producers are encouraged to get all the facts before embarking on this exiting venture. Editor s Note: This is an edited version of an article published in the Farmers Weekly 28 th December

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31 Wagyu Beef GENOMICS DAY at Sernick Wagyu Vleisbees GENOMIKA DAG by Sernick As part of the Wagyu Beef Genomics Program, 83 Wagyu bulls went on test at the Sernick feedlot in Edenville. We also had an excellent attendance with nearly 40 producers attending. Genomics is now firmly entrenched as a major selection tool. From the DNA genomics result producers can expect to receive a file that will include all the genetic information (called a SNP file), a parentage result and an add-on of the different DNA markers (for example a polled or horned result). The increase in accuracy will be applicable for especially the difficult to measure traits such as marbling and feed efficiency. Calves will be selected at birth with increased accuracy for all the economically relevant traits. Prof Esté van Marle-Köster is considered one of South Africa s leading geneticists in this field and was the first speaker at the Genomics day. Of importance is to ensure that all animals are recorded in contemporary groups. How a contemporary group is formed is critical to ensure results are useful, otherwise the effort and money spent recording the expensive and difficult to measure traits is a waste of time. Izaan du Plooy, BREEDPLAN s technical representative in South Africa gave an overview of the different weights and traits that should be measured. Phillip Oosthuizen s talk focused on the economy of feed efficiency testing. Whilst in the past Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) was the trait of importance, we now measure Feed Intake because Feed Intake has a zero correlation with mature cow weight (i.e. selecting for feed efficiency will not make cows bigger). Philip Oosthuizen gave an insightful talk on the cost saving that will be realised when selecting for feed efficiency. Wagyu CEO, Dr. Michael Bradfield and Johan Styger gave an overview of the Beef Genomics Program, a collaborative program that includes 97% of all seedstock animals in South Africa and Namibia. The bulls should be finishing their tests in February when another producer day is planned. As deel van die Wagyu Vleisbees Genomika program het Wagyu telers vir die eerste keer in Suid Afrika 83 bulle by Sernick-voerkraal in Edenville getoets. Ons het ook n uitstekende bywoning met byna 40 produsente gehad. Genomika is nou stewig verskans as n belangrike seleksie instrument. Uit die DNS-genomiese resultate kan produsente verwag om n lêer te ontvang wat alle genetiese inligting ( n SNP-lêer), n ouerskap-resultaat en n byvoeging van die verskillende DNS-merkers (bv. n poenskop of horing resultaat) insluit. Die toename in akkuraatheid sal van toepassing wees op veral die moeilik meetbare eienskappe soos marmering en voerdoeltreffendheid. Kalwers sal by geboorte met verhoogde akkuraatheid geselekteer kan word vir al vir die ekonomies belangrike eienskappe soos voerdoeltreffendheid en marmering. Prof Esté van Marle-Köster word as een van Suid-Afrika se voorste genetici in hierdie veld beskou en was die eerste spreker op die dag. Dit is belangrik om te verseker dat alle diere in kontemporêre groepe aangeteken word. Hoe n kontemporêre groep gevorm word is van kritieke belang om te verseker dat die resultate bruikbaar is, anders is die moeite en geld om die duur en moeilik meetbare eienskappe te meet n mors van tyd. Izaan du Plooy, BREEDPLAN se tegniese verteenwoordiger in Suid-Afrika het n oorsig van die verskillende gewigte en eienskappe gegee wat gemeet moet word. Phillip Oosthuizen van Sernick se gesprek het gefokus op die ekonomiese voordele van voerdoeltreffendheidstoetse. Terwyl Voeromsetverhouding (VOV) in die verlede die eienskap van belang was, meet ons nou Netto Voerinname aangesien Netto Voerinname geen korrelasie met volwasse koeigewig het nie (d.w.s. die seleksie vir voerdoeltreffendheid maak nie koeie groter nie). Philip het n insiggewende toespraak gegee oor die kostebesparing wat in die nageslag gerealiseer sal word wanneer indien daar vir voerdoeltreffendheid geselekteer word. Wagyu se uitvoerende hoof, Dr. Michael Bradfield en Johan Styger, het n oorsig gegee van die Vleisbees Genomika Program, n industrie program wat 97% van alle stoet diere in Suid-Afrika en Namibië insluit. n Opvolg-produsentedag word in Februarie beplan, wanneer die bulle die toets afsluit. 31

32 Moving from MICROSATELLITE MARKERS to SINGLE NUCLEOTIDE POLYMORPHISMS (SNP) PROF ESTE VAN MARLE-KÖSTER (PhD Pr. Anim. Sci.) Head: Department of Animal & Wildlife Sciences, University of Pretoria Beef cattle breeding have entered the age of genomics with the mapping and sequencing of the bovine genome. In broad terms, genomics refers to all DNA-information that can be derived from the DNA of a species. Livestock genomics further defined is the science that promotes the understanding of genetics, the gene function and the application thereof for improvement of animal health and welfare, product quality and production efficiency. Genomic information has a wide application from identification of genes for genetic defects, parentage testing, finding quantitative trait loci (the traits with economic impact) and providing direct genomic values for an individual for application in genomic selection and genetic improvement of livestock, including beef cattle. DNA-markers In the development of molecular genetics, a range of DNA markers such as DNA fingerprinting markers (DFP), Random Amplified Polymorphic markers (RAPD) and microsatellite markers was first discovered with different characteristics and potential applications. A DNA marker is a fragment of DNA, at a specific locus, with two alleles. Due to the highly polymorphic nature several genetic defects, major genes such as Myostatin (associated with double muscling) and DGAT1 (butterfat in dairy). The Celtic test, based on microsatellite markers, is used to identify homozygous polled animals, providing breeders with a simple tool for selection of polled animals. Microsatellite markers have also proved their value in the extensive use of DNA based parentage verification and population genetic studies. The discovery of Single Nucleotide Polymorphic (SNP) markers in 2009 by Matukumali and his team was a major development as this laid the foundation for highthroughput genomic analyses. SNP s are high density markers and well distributed throughout the genome and private companies such as Illumina and Affymetrix seized the opportunity to develop high-throughput commercial SNP arrays. Several SNP panels with different densities have been developed for genotyping beef cattle, generating large volumes of genomic data that can be used for genomic selection. In addition to direct genomic values, the SNP arrays also allow for identification of genetic defects, major genes and parentage verification. In table 2, microsatellite and SNP markers are compared with regard to their applications. Table 2: Comparison of microsatellite and SNP markers Microsatellite markers Single Nucleotide Polymorphic markers Marker panels of markers Dense arrays 50K SNP; 150K SNP Relatively simple assay Large variety available Limitations: Need more markers for breeds with small effective population sizes/inbred populations Tend to mutate continuously update standards Cost vs. benefit: output data Advantages: ISAG parentage panels Technology set up for automated test where genomic is used Highly accurate considers all relationships of animals in database of DNA markers, they are most useful for application in development of genetic tools. For a DNA marker to be applied as a genetic tool, it must be co-dominant, polymorphic and highly reproducible at a reasonable cost. For a number of years, microsatellite markers was the preferred marker and applied for identification of Currently, there are several SNP arrays available for genotyping, varying in density that can be applied for genotyping of beef cattle. Most of these arrays offer identification of genetic defects observed in a number of beef cattle breeds, as well as major genes such as the Celtic gene and myostatin variants for double muscling. The International Society of Animal genetics (ISAG) has 32

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35 also compiled SNP panels based on the available SNP arrays for parentage verification. For breeds making use of routine genotyping for genomic selection, there are clearly a number of added advantages at no extra cost. Parentage testing based on SNP s are highly accurate as it considers all animals available in the database and has the potential to solve the parentage of closely related animals. Microsatellite based parentage remains an affordable option for cattle breeders and a more accurate option compared to traditional pedigrees. Parentage based on SNP s is the Rolls Royce with regard to accuracy, although more costly at this stage for SA breeders. As more routine genotyping are performed and breeds have established their training populations, it will become more affordable. Once the breed has access to large numbers of genotypes, lower density panels at reasonable cost should be possible for parentage. Conclusion Genomics have added essential genetic tools for improvement of livestock, including beef cattle. The value of microsatellite markers should not be disregarded as these markers were most valuable for a number of diagnostic tests, including parentage over the past two decades. Worldwide, the trend is towards genotyping using SNP arrays for genomic selection, especially in dairy and beef cattle. SNP s are fast becoming the marker of choice for solving parentage. In order to remain competitive, beef cattle breeders will need to engage in routine genotyping for taking advantage of the full value of SNP genotypes. Genomic selection based on accurate phenotyping and genotyping will determine the beef cattle leaders of the future. VOORSIEN DEUR TELER 1. Bestuursgroep deur teler gedefinieer Bestuursgroepe (Management groups) Die direkte vergelyking van slegs die diere wat soortgelyke behandeling ontvang het, is een van die belangrikste aspekte van BREEDPLAN. Analises word slegs binne bestuursgroep gedoen, waar diere soortgelyke behandeling ontvang het. Beeste word in groepe geanaliseer om die invloed van soveel moontlik nie-genetiese faktore uit te skakel. Hierdie groepering van diere word bepaal deur faktore wat in 3 kategorieë ingedeel kan word, soos hieronder aangedui. IZAAN DU PLOOY (MSc Pr. Anim. Sci.) Breedplan Technical Director OUTOMATIES, MAAR KAN DEUR TELER BEÏVLOED WORD 2. Kalf ouderdom 3. Weeg datum Outomatiese groepering: Die stelsel groepeer diere outomaties volgens die bogenoemde 7 kriteria. Telers kan hierdie groeperings nie verander nie, maar moet seker maak dat dit korrek aangeteken is. Wanneer kuddes saam bestuur word op dieselfde plaas, moet dit as geassosieerde kuddes aangeteken word. Hierdie is byvoorbeeld as n pa en seun verskillende kuddes het, maar hul word saam bestuur op dieselfde plaas. Die kalenderjaar waarin n kalf gebore is word gebruik as sy kalwingsjaar. Dit kan wel gebeur dat n kalfseisoen oor twee kalenderjare strek. In hierdie geval moet die teler OUTOMATIES 4. Kudde 5. Kalwingsjaar 6. Geslag 7. Tweeling/Enkel 8. Embrio 9. Ouderdom van moeder die genootskap hieroor inlig, sodat byvoorbeeld Januarie kalwers saam met Desember kalwers geanaliseer word. Nadat bulkalwers gekastreer is word hul nie meer saam met die res van die bulkalwers geanaliseer nie. Dus is dit beter om bulkalwers eers te weeg vir 200-dae gewig voordat sommige van hul gekastreer word. Kalwers wat deel is van n tweeling word nooit saam met enkel kalwers ge-analiseer nie, so ook word embrio-kalwers nooit saam met ander kalwers geanaliseer nie. 35

36 Bestuursgroepe deur teler voorsien: Wanneer behandeling n invloed gaan hê op die prestasie van n dier, moet dit aangeteken word deur die toekenning van verskillende bestuursgroepkodes. Die behandeling kan doelbewus (bv. diere wat gevoer is) of toevallig wees (bv. siekte). Kodes 1 tot 9 of A tot Z ( n maksimum van 3 karakters) kan gebruik word om diere in bestuursgroepe van soortgelyke behandeling te plaas. Dit kan enige kombinasie karakters wees, die spesifieke kode maak nie saak nie. Die dier of diere wat verskillend behandel is, moet net n ander kode hê as die res. Diere wat anders as die res van die groep behandel is vandat hul die laaste keer geweeg is, moet in n aparte bestuursgroep geplaas word. Kalwers wat byvoorbeeld kruipvoer ontvang, moet in n ander groep geplaas word as diegene wat nie kruipvoer ontvang het nie. Oorweging moet ook gegee word aan variasies in kampe t.o.v. veldkwaliteit, drakrag van weiding, watergehalte, ens. Kalwers wat deel vorm van die skougroep en gevolglik anders behandel word, moet ook in n ander bestuursgroep geplaas word. Let daarop dat indien die bestuursgroep blanko gelos word, word dit aangeneem dat al die diere dieselfde behandeling ontvang het. Outomatiese groepering deur teler beïnvloed: Kalwers gebore binne n periode van 45 dae word outomaties gegroepeer deur BREEDPLAN vir die analisering van geboortegewigte en 200-dae gewigte. Hierdie 45 dae snit word gemaak om te verseker dat slegs kalwers wat aan dieselfde seisoenale toestande blootgestel is met mekaar vergelyk word, bv. as die eerste kalf op 1 Junie gebore is, sal die eerste snit strek vanaf 1 Junie tot 15 Julie. As die volgende kalf gebore is op 20 Julie, is die volgende snit 45 dae later. Die groepering word nie oorgedra na die latere ouderdomme nie. Vir 400- dae en 600-dae gewigte word hierdie periode verleng na 60 dae. Jy kan die hoeveelheid 45 of 60 dae snitte in die analise beïnvloed deur die kompaktheid van jou kalfseisoen. BREEDPLAN sal die maksimum hoeveelheid kalwers vir vergelyking binne die ouderdomsgroepe hê indien die kalfseisoen kompak gehou word. Dit sal help om die akkuraatheid van u BTW s te verbeter. Slegs diere wat op dieselfde datum geweeg word, word deur BREEDPLAN saam vergelyk. Om te verseker dat die maksimum aantal kalwers in dieselfde bestuursgroep geanaliseer word, moet al die diere in n bestuursgroep op dieselfde dag geweeg word. Ideaal gesproke moet kalwers geweeg word as die groep op sy grootste is. Dit beteken dat eerder as om op die voorgestelde datum te weeg, probeer om te weeg voordat enige van die kalwers in die bestuursgroep anders behandel word. Weeg byvoorbeeld voordat jy sommige van jou bulkalwers kastreer, of voordat jy die skougroep van die ander skei. Koppeling tussen bestuursgroep: Koppeling tussen bestuursgroepe is baie belangrik. n Bestuursgroep moet kalwers van ten minste twee bulle insluit. As n bestuursgroep slegs kalwers van een bul insluit, is daar geen direkte vergelyking van twee bulle se nageslag nie en dus dra hierdie inligting niks by tot die berekening van die bul se teelwaardes nie. Hoe om koppeling te bewerkstelling wanneer enkelbulparings gebruik word? n Goeie tyd om te begin om koppeling te bewerkstellig is wanneer koeie kalwers speen. Teen hierdie tyd is hul gewoonlik reeds dragtig met hul volgende kalwers. Veronderstel daar is drie groepe koeie van 30 elk, wat by drie verskillende bulle geloop het. Allokeer hierdie dragtige koeie na hul volgende dekgroepe. Om koppeling te bewerkstellig word 10 van Bul 1 se koeie geskuif na Bul 2 toe, 10 van Bul 2 se koeie na Bul 3, ens. Gevolglik wanneer hierdie koeie kalf, word meer as een bul se kalwers in dieselfde bestuursgroep grootgemaak. Dus kan die nageslag van twee bulle se prestasie met mekaar vergelyk word. Om op te som: Daar is drie hoofareas aangaande die opstel van bestuursgroepe, waar die besluit wat jy neem n groot invloed kan hê op die teelwaardes wat BREEDPLAN vir jou diere bereken: 1. Ken diere toe aan verskillende bestuursgroepe wanneer hulle verskillend behandel is. Wees egter versigtig om nie onnodige bestuursgroepe te skep nie, aangesien dit teenstrydig met punt 2 mag wees. 2. Bestuur diere in groot groepe. BREEDPLAN bereken teelwaardes deur diere in groepe te vergelyk waar hul dieselfde behandel is. Groter groepe verskaf meer inligting vir die berekeninge van teelwaardes. 3. Bewerkstellig stamboom koppelings. Hoe meer stamboom koppelings in die groep is, hoe betroubaarder is die teelwaardes. Dit kan bewerkstellig word deur te verseker dat twee of meer vaars in elke bestuursgroep verteenwoordig word. As die groepe nie korrek opgestel is of verklaar is nie, sal die teelwaardes minder akkuraat en moontlik misleidend wees. Dit is ook belangrik om te verseker dat rekords van al die diere in n groep ingedien word, nie net die goeie presteerders nie. 36

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39 The Tissue Sample Unit (TSU) is the preferred way to store samples because they can be re-used numerous times and are also ideal for processing by laboratories The Wagyu BEEF GENOMICS PROGRAM DR MICHAEL J BRADFIELD (PhD Pr. Anim. Sci.) Wagyu CEO The first phase of the beef genomics programme was formally established in April 2015 after extensive deliberations between role-players in research institutions, service providers to industry, industry and government (represented by TIA). These deliberations followed a series of workshops in 2012 which focused on genomics in the livestock industry. The Livestock Genomics Task Team, of which Prof. Esté van Marle- Köster and I are members, invested tremendous time and effort to evaluate the implementation of genomics into traditional performance recording and worked closely with the Technology and Innovation Agency to develop a genomics programme. R 30 million was spent on the first round of the program. Wagyu was fortunate to be able to secure R in roll-over funds from the first round. This money will be used to subsidise the feed efficiency tests of the 80 bulls on test, as well as the DNA SNP data. Benefits of Genomics The major benefits of Genomics include: EBV s can be generated for animals which do not have performance data More accurate EBV s can be generated for animals with limited performance information especially for the difficult to measure traits such as marbling and feed efficiency Animals can be more accurately selected at a young age, even at birth The Society will continue to hold various Beef Genomics days to ensure that producers know and understand the process and know exactly what is required to join the program. The Wagyu BGP Plan The Wagyu Society of South Africa (WSA) has applied to be beneficiaries of the second round of the BGP project. WSA has committed to test 1600 bulls over the 5 years, carcass images and K genotypes as per Fig 1 below. There are still numerous proses being put in place to ensure that we get going with genomics in South Africa. Data Rollover 18/19 19/20 20/21 21/22 22/23 Total Feed Efficiency Carcass data on Fullblood, Purebred and F1 animals (if possible, using digital carcase camera Genotypes (50K)

40 The economics of FEED EFFICIENCY PHILLIP OOSTHUIZEN The objective of individual feed intake is to determine the animal s genetic potential for feed intake, hence feed conversion if weight gain is incorporated. Bulls with more efficient feed conversion due to lower feed intake for the same growth can be identified for future breeding, hence genetic selection to improve feed conversion. Sernick Bonsmara decreased feed conversion with 1.5kg over the past 21 years through individual feed intake testing. Feed efficiency of the Bonsmara is indicated in figure 1: Figure 1: The effect on feedlot profit due to changes in feed intake and carcass price It is evident that profit decreases as feed intake increases while growth is kept constant at 1.8kg/day. The profit in this price scenario decreases with R378 for every kg of feed intake increase. The Average Daily Gain (ADG) for the Sernick Bonsmara increased from 1.6 to 1.8 and FCR decreased from 7 to 5.5. If ADG was kept constant at 1.6 than feed intake decreased from 11.2 to 9.9kg/day, through genetic selection. The Wagyu feed efficiency impact on profit margins follows the same trend as the Bonsmara, but the negative effect on profit is much higher (Figure 2). An increase in feed intake of 1kg decreases profit with R819, which is more than double the negative profit effect compared to the Bonsmara. Figure 2: The effect on feedlot profit due to changes in feed intake and carcass price 40

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43 One of the major risk management calculations that needs to be made for high-value market products, is the break-even production factors compared to the market prices. With regards to this article, the question is, what the production factors should be to counter a decrease in carcass price? A decrease in carcass price of R 1.89/kg can be countered by decreasing the feed intake by only 0.89kg/day, improving feed efficiency by 1.05:1. Fixed Fixed Variable Variable To reach profit Profit ADG Feed Intake FCR Carcass Price R/head kg/head/dag kg/head/dag kg ADG: kg intake R/kg Conclusion and recommendation: Because Wagyu are fed for a long time, the emphasis for Wagyu should be on the production factors that increases productivity and decreases price. The Wagyu breed should invest in individual feed intake testing in order to identify more feed efficient genetic lines. The data must be used for genetic selection to improve the overall feed efficiency which can have a significant influence on profitability. Technological and marketing innovation can provide you with a competitive advantage over the short term, but over the long term it can define your relevance in the industry Phillip Oosthuizen Can we actually produce beef that reduces the risk of Cardio Vascular Disease? STEPHEN B. SMITH, Regents Professor and Faculty Fellow, Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University The publication of The Big Fat Surprise by Nina Teicholz in 2014 had a huge impact on our perception of fat (especially animal fat) in the diet. In her book, Ms. Teicholz concluded that Americans were given misleading information on the effects of saturated fat on the risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Americans do not increase their risk for CVD by consuming animal fats because fat in the diet typically replaces carbohydrates (which promote obesity and type II diabetes). However, an important question needs to be addressed: if animal fat in the diet can be considered benign, can we actually 43

44 produce beef that reduces the risk of CVD? Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., and a primary risk factor CVD is the considered to be the blood concentration of LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C). Reports linking dietary fat to worsening blood lipid levels often have been interpreted to mean that the general public, especially those at risk for CVD, should consume diets containing little or no red meat due to its inherent saturated fatty acid (SFA) content. Researchers previously concluded that dietary SFA such as palmitic acid (the most abundant SFA in animal fats) elevate serum LDL-C concentrations, whereas polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) such as linoleic acid reduce LDL-C concentrations. Additionally, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) were thought to have little or no effect on cholesterol concentrations in humans. However, the major MUFA in animal fats, oleic acid, subsequently was found to lower LDL-C and increase the beneficial HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C). Thus, the consumption of the mixture of fatty acids typically found in beef should increase HDL-C concentrations and not increase LDL-C concentrations. We have conducted five carefully controlled studies on the impact of high-fat ground beef on risk factors for CVD and type II diabetes. Why ground beef? Approximately 50% of total beef consumption is in the form of ground beef, especially in low socioeconomic groups. Ground beef is fabricated to a specific fat level, which can be as low as 3% total fat to an upper limit of 30% total fat. Approximately 41% of ground beef consumed in the U.S. contains 23 30% fat, whereas 26% of ground beef consumed contains 15 22% fat. Additionally, over 25% of carcass beef yield is used to produce ground beef, so consumption of ground beef increases the sustainability of beef production. We have demonstrated that oleic acid can be increased substantially in ground beef by: grain feeding to USDA Prime; or by using beef from Black Wagyu or Akaushi cattle. Our human studies included men with high cholesterol concentrations, men with normal cholesterol concentrations, and post-menopausal women. Two of the studies compared commercial ground beef with Akaushi ground (provided by HeartBrand). The focus of all of ours studies was the comparison of ground beef high in saturated fat to ground beef naturally higher in monounsaturated fat (i.e., oleic acid). Our published articles represent the only studies that have reported the effects of high-fat ground beef on risk factors for CVD and type II diabetes, and we addressed what really constitutes healthy beef. We observed that ground beef relative low in oleic acid did not decrease HDL-C concentrations, whereas ground beef containing elevated oleic acid increased plasma HDL-C concentrations in men and women. Plasma glucose, TAG, and LDL-C concentrations were not affected or actually were decreased by increasing ground beef in the diet. For a study published this year, we compared 25% fat commercial ground beef to 18% HeartBrand ground beef. Although the HeartBrand ground beef contained less fat, the commercial and Heartbrand ground beef provided the same amount of oleic acid; this reflects the higher level of oleic acid in Akaushi beef. However, the commercial ground beef contained 5.5 grams more saturated fat and trans-fat than the HeartBrand ground beef. Which type of ground beef was healthier? Neither ground beef increased risk factors for type II diabetes, but both types of ground increased LDL particle size and larger LDL particles are associated with a reduced risk for CVD. The commercial ground beef decreased HDL-C concentrations by about 1 mg/dl, whereas the HeartBrand ground beef increased HDL-C concentrations by 3 mg/dl. We conclude that commercial ground beef, even containing 25% fat, has some positive health benefits, but ground beef from Wagyu cattle has even greater health benefits. These results are essentially identical to a report we published in 2013, in which we compared the effects of 21% fat commercial and HeartBrand ground beef. In conclusion, our studies with men and women produced results that are consistent with large-scale retrospective studies that have indicated no association between red meat intake and risk factors for CVD or type II diabetes. Thus, including animal fat in the diet has positive, rather than negative, health benefits. Additionally, increasing the amount of oleic acid beef as occurs in Wagyu has even greater health benefits. 44

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47 n Huistoegaan boodskap ALDAM VEESKOOL 2018 KOBUS BESTER, Voorsitter Lewendehawe Federasie Grond hervorming en transformasie Aanvaar die feit dat hierdie kwessies nie net bestaan nie, maar onlosmaaklik deel is van ons bestaan vandag, en dat dit hanteer moet word. Dit begin alreeds op elke boer se plaas, en elke landbou werkgewer het die verantwoordelikheid om die grond wat hy tot sy beskikking het so aan te wend dat dit die armoede van sy werkers sal verlig, en hul lewensomstandighede sal verbeter. (Dit behoort die strewe te wees van elke werkgewer in elke sektor van die ekonomie) Wees positief in hoe die uitdaging benader word, maar aanvaar die uitdaging, moenie dit net ignoreer en vir ander los om te hanteer nie. Pak die uitdaging planmatig aan, as jy nie n plan het nie, maak n plan, en raak aktief betrokke deur deel te neem aan gesprekvoering. Sedert 1994 tot vandag het die gaping tussen arm en gegoede mense vergroot. Daardie gaping moet aangespreek word, en elke persoon moet kies, gaan jy niks doen en geforseer word om van jou welvaart prys te gee, of gaan jy n daadwerklike poging aanwend om deur jou boerdery aktiwiteite die gaping te vernou deur jou plaaswerkers se lewenstandaard te verbeter. Hierdie is n proses neem aktief deel om n beter uitkoms te verseker deur: Ingesluit te word en deel te wees daarvan. Vertroue te bou en ander se vertroue waardig te wees. Die verantwoordelikheid en eienaarskap te aanvaar. Om dit te doen vereis dat n keuse gemaak moet word, die keuse is nie werklik of jy deel gaan wees van die oplossing nie, maar eerder in watter mate en hoe toegewyd jy daaraan gaan deelneem. Geleenthede en uitdagings Die wêreld bied enorme geleenthede. Die wêreld bevolking brei uit teen n verbysterende tempo, en op ons eie kontinent is dit ook nie anders nie. Daar is verskillende navorsingstukke beskikbaar oor die geskatte Afrika bevolking teen 2050, maar dit blyk tussen 1.8 en 2.2 biljoen mense te wees. Hoewel wêreld armoede steeds n realiteit is, is dit ook so dat die bestedingsvermoë baie toegeneem het, en dat meer mense nou duurder beter gehalte proteïne in hul dieet kan insluit. Daar is dus n groter behoefte in Afrika en n nog groter wêreldwye vraag na met verbeterde koopkrag vir rooivleis. Dit is n fantastiese geleentheid, maar vleisprodusente het ook te kampe met ander uitdagings soos onder andere aardverwarming, veranderende parasiet ladings en siekte druk in hul produksiestelsels. Die beskikbare hulpbronne om in hierdie groter vraag te voorsien het nie tred gehou met die groter behoefte en vraag nie, en gevolglik moet hulpbronne beter benut en aangewend word. Om toegang tot hierdie markte te kry is dit belangrik om saam te werk met statutêre instellings om te verseker dat hierdie markte wel bedien kan word. Steeds is daar nie n naspeurbaarheidstelsel in plek vir vee in Suid-Afrika nie, en het ons nie protokolle in plek om genetiese materiaal en ander vee produkte te kan uitvoer na sekere lande of markte nie. Dit blyk nodig te wees vir die privaatsektor en produsente om hande te vat en saam met die relevante owerheid die nodige kapasiteit hiervoor te skep. Vrugbaarheid - die grondslag vir winsgewendheid Daar is vandag talle reproduktiewe prosedures en tegnieke beskikbaar aan veeboere om hul effektiwiteit te verhoog. Heelwat nuwe tegnieke is beskikbaar soos die aspirasie van genetiese materiaal uit verse so jonk as 2 maande, stamsel oorplantings in bulle en die gebruik van geslagsbepaalde semen om n paar te noem. Verhoogde effektiwiteit deur versnelde genetiese vordering is wat noodsaaklik is om die uitdagings van aardverwarming en die wêreldbevolkings aanwas die hoof te bied. Deur van die korrekte tegnieke gebruik te maak kan vee se generasie intervalle dramaties verkort word, en kan genetiese vordering bespoedig word. Om dit sinvol te kan doen is dit uiters belangrik om geneties meerderwaardige diere akkuraat te identifiseer, en seker te maak dat dit diere is wat wel genetiese vordering kan meebring. Daarom is dit belangrik om alle 47

48 hulpmiddels korrek in te span. Die gebruik van BTW s (Beraamde teelwaardes) is onmisbaar, maar dit moet korrek verstaan en geïnterpreteer word, akkuraat en betroubaar wees en moet op die regte wyse vergelyk word indien nodig. Dit is ook belangrik om wanneer ingevoerde genetika gebruik word, ook hul BTW s op die regte manier vergelyk word, appels met appels byna soos n valuta omskakeling om die waarde te bepaal, nie net die getal of syfer nie. Embrio spoelings op beide die konvensionele wyse of deur middel van invitro bly steeds n doeltreffende metode om genetiese vordering te bespoedig. n Ander makliker, meer bekostigbare metode is om meer van KI (kunsmatige inseminasie) gebruik te maak. In Suid-Afrika word veral in die produksie van vleis baie min van KI gebruik gemaak. In die VSA het die gebruik van KI sedert 1995 tot 2015 met 69% toegeneem, en in Brasilië met 730% oor dieselfde periode. Embriospoelings en KI is toeganklike metodes wat toegepas kan word, maar die sukses daarvan hang af van die vlak van kuddebestuur. Behoorlike kuddebestuur, diere wat goed aangepas is in hul omgewing en wat in optimale kondisie is, is absoluut sleutel tot sukses. Die sprekers het talle mites wat bestaan het oor die nadele van vaste tyd KI (VTKI - Sinkronisasie van vroulike diere om almal gelyktydig te insemineer) die nek omgedraai, en het statistieke gedeel met navorsingsresultate oor die onderwerp. Daar was n paar baie belangrike voorwaardes om aan te volden alvorens KI of die embrio roete suksesvol sal wees, aldus die sprekers. Hul boodskap in die verband was as volg: Boer met diere wat goed aangepas is in hul omgewing, handhaaf so ver as moontlik optimale liggaamskondisie deur so veel as moontlik gebruik te maak van natuurlike hulpbronne, pas goeie kuddebstuur toe en voorsien in die diere se behoeftes met aanvullende lekke, met winsgewende reproduksie en produksie deurentyd in gedagte. VTKI is n uiters handige metode wat gebruik kan word om genetiese vordering te maak: Dit hou finansiële voordele in (Voordeel moet koste oortref, en het positiewe sekondêre gevolge). Beplan dit goed vooruit dit verseker optimale resultate. Maak gebruik van n spesialis veeartse. Dit is nie net n geleentheid of gebeurtenis nie, maar n proses. Daar was ook verwys na die impak wat bestuur het op sekere vrugbaarheidseienskappe. Latere negatiewe effek van onvoldoende ontwikkeling op bulkalwers wat nog by hul moeders loop en wanneer jong bulle te vinnig groei na speen weens voedingsprogramme en hoe dit (bv vet aanpakking in nek van skrotum) selfs onomkeerbare skade kan doen wat semen produksie betref, is ook bespreek. Goeie kuddebestuur sluit ook noodwendig n behoorlik ontwerpte en goed bestuurde kudde gesondheidsplan in. Bio sekuriteit in terme van vleisproduksie, dierewelsyn en diergesondheid met die oog op produksie en reproduksie bly n uiters belangrike faset van verantwoordelike vleisproduksie. Daar was heelwat aandag gegee aan die belangrikheid van die identifisering van eerste kalwers van die kalfseisoen, en waarom DTK (Dae tot Kalwing) eerder as TKP (Tussen Kalf Periode) gebruik moet word as maatstaf. Aspekte soos ouderdom met eerste kalwing, kilogramme gespeen tot kilogramme bloot gestel aan die bul en ander is ook bespreek. Geen geleentheid van die omvang en met die Veeskool se reputasie sal volledig gewees het sonder om genomika te bespreek nie. Die voordele van die gebruik van genomika met die fokus op moeilik meetbare eienskappe soos vrugbaarheid en voerdoeltreffendheid is weer bespreek. Die belangrikheid om gehalte fenotipiese data te versamel om n relevante verwysingspopulasie te skep is beklemtoon asook die feit dat die versameling van nuwe data n deurlopende proses is wat moet aanhou. Huistoeneem boodskap Maak n voorraad opname van wat die stand van sake is op jou plaas. Evalueer en bepaal die genetiese potensiaal van die diere waarmee jy boer. Bepaal jou kudde se mikpunte en doelwitte wat jy wil bereik. Formuleer n strategie aan die hand van n tydlyn en plaas dit op skrif. Kombineer bogenoemde in n aksieplan, wat jy kan implementeer, monitor en bestuur dan die vordering wat jy maak. Wees positief. Wees produktief en winsgewend Maak n verbetering, nie net n verandering nie. Wees n leier, nie net n deelnemer nie. 48

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51 Wat is? DR MICHAEL J BRADFIELD (PhD Pr. Anim. Sci.) Wagyu CEO Genetiese beginsels Geen persoon besoek n doktor wat geen formele opleiding gehad het nie. Op n soortgelyke wyse doen meeste toonaangewende Wagyu stoetboere ten minste een of twee formele kursusse in diereteelt-beginsels voordat hulle vir enige kommersiële teler advies kan gee. Die klem in moderne boerdery verskuif die afgelope twee dekades heeltemal na ekonomiese genetiese vordering. Wat is Genetiese vordering? Die wetenskap definieer genetiese vordering as die ekonomiese vordering wat in Rand en Sent gemaak word oor die leeftyd van n dier in n ekonomies-belangrike eienskap. Lee Leachman, van Leachman Cattle Company (een van die wêreld se grootste stoetboere) mik byvoorbeeld daarna om elke dier in sy stoet te kry om n Voeromset van onder 4kg te lewer. Hy het reeds n paar bulle wat n Voeromset van 3.2 behaal het. Indien sy hele kudde byvoorbeeld na twee of drie geslagte n Voeromset van onder 4kg kan handhaaf, sal dit n enorme impak op die kommersiële bedryf hê, asook vir die voerkrale. Op n soortgelyke wyse het die hoenderbedryf dit reggekry dat hulle die Voeromset by hoenders vanaf 6kg per kg toenamena 1.5kg oor 50 jaar verbeter het. Enige teler sal verstaan dat dit werklike genetiese vordering en dat dit n enorme verandering in n bedryf sal meebring en veroorsaak dat meer mense vandag hoendervleis eet. Dit is ook egter belangrik dat alle ekonomies-belangrike eienskappe in aanmerking moet kom met seleksie vir genetiese vordering. Die formule vir genetiese vordering is; R = S x h 2 L Wat beteken dit alles? R staan vir response to selection d.w.s. die genetiese vordering wat ons kan verwag. Daar is genootskappe asook groot boerderye wat hulle personeel betaal i.t.v. die genetiese vordering wat gemaak word. Dit word objektief met statistiese metodes bepaal (die standaard afwyking vanaf die gemiddeld vir dié wat statistiek verstaan). Die S staan vir selection differential d.w.s. hoeveel beter die dier as die gemiddeld van die populasie is. Geneties (en ekonomies) is dit dus hoeveel beter die dier as die res van die diere is, weereens vir ekonomiesbelangrike eienskappe. Die bogenoemde grafiek wys hoe genetiese vordering gebeur d.w.s. die distribusie van die eienskap (byvoorbeeld marmering %) voor seleksie en die distribusie daarna. Ook belangrik is die hoeveelheid variasie wat beskikbaar is. Sonder variasie sal daar geen genetiese vordering wees nie en selfs in die melkbedryf waar top koeie oor die kg per jaar produseer, is daar nog steeds variasie in die melkproduksie van melkbeeste. Seleksie vir die meeste ekonomies-belangrike eienskappe in vleisbeeste is nog in sy kinderskoene Die h 2 staan vir oorerflikheid. Die oorerflikheid is die genetiese komponent wat aan die nageslag oorgedra word. Elke lewende wese (fenotipe) het beide n genetiese komponent (dít wat van die ouers geërf word), en n fenotipiese komponent (die omgewingseffekte wat elke dier of mens beïnvloed). Die fenotipe is dus n kombinasie van jou genotipe (dit wat jy erf vanaf pa en ma soos voorheen genoem) en die omgewing. Ons druk dit gewoonlik uit as P=G+E. Wat egter interessant is, is dat die oorerflikheid vir verskille eienskappe baie verskil. Mense se lengte is byvoorbeeld hoogs oorerflik (jou genetika is baie belangrik) terwyl mense se breedte (hoe vet jy is) meer aan omgewing toegeskryf kan word. Net so het elke eienskap in diere n berekende oorerflikheid. Ons deel dit gewoonlik op in laag oorerflik as onder 15%, medium as tussen 15 en 30% en hoogs oorerflik as hoër as 30%. Tabel 1 hieronder gee voorbeelde van die verskillende oorerflikhede in vleisbeeste. Dit is belangrik om te verstaan dat hoe hoër 51

52 die oorerflikheid, hoe vinniger is die genetiese vordering. Vrugbaarheid is byvoorbeeld laag oorerflik (8-10%). Dit is welbekend dat die Wagyu se sterk punte sy persentasie marmering is. Een van sy swak punte, veral in die swart Wagyu, is sy groeivermoë. Groei is hoogs oorerflik (meer as 30%). Om genetiese vordering te maak beteken dat ons daadwerklik daarvoor moet selekteer, binne n bestuursgroep en verkieslik met speengewigte. Tabel 1: Oorerflikhede van verskeie eienskappe. Eienskap getal publikasies Gemiddelde oorerflikheid (%) Vrugbaarheid kalf interval 3 8 Vrugbaarheid 10 Groei Geboorte gewig GDT Speen gewig Jaar gewig Finale gewig Voer doeltreffendheid Voer Doeltreffendheid Hoogte heup hoogte 6 82 Karkas Uitslag % 2 45 Oogspier area 2 70 Vet dikte 2 45 Vleis Sagtheid 2 60 Marmering telling 2 38 Uitslag persentasie 2 30 Die L staan vir generasie interval d.w.s. gemiddelde ouderdom van die ouers wanneer die nageslag gebore word. Ons moet die ouderdom van alle kalwers opsom om die korrekte getal te kry. In vleisbeeste is dit 4.5 tot 5 jaar maar verskil baie tussen rasse. Terwyl Wagyu telers met trots kan sê dat hulle beeste goeie langlewendheid het, is dit egter in die stoet belangrik dat genetiese vordering gemaak word. Genetiese vordering word gemaak deur die generasie interval korter te probeer maak. Indien daar in n ras vordering gemaak word kan n tien jaar ou bul byvoorbeeld onmoontlik geneties beter presteer as n jong bul. Ons moet dus tussen seleksie in n stoet en in kommersiële kuddes onderskei. In n stoet is genetiese vordering die hoofdoel. Genetiese korrelasies Thou shalt not single trait select is die eerste gebod van teling. Alle eienskappe is aan mekaar verwant (gekorreleerd). Indien n boer n dier vir een eienskap selekteer, dan verander hy onmiddellik al die ander eienskappe a.g.v. die verskillende korrelasies wat bestaan. Indien jy byvoorbeeld net vir hoër marmering in jou kudde selekteer, dan verlaag jy terselfder tyd die gewig (die genetiese korrelasie is om en by 30% tussen die twee eienskappe). Tabel 2 hieronder gee voorbeelde van die korrelasies tussen verskillende eienskappe. Hoe breek ons hierdie korrelasies met seleksie? Ons doen dit deur data te versamel op die eienskappe waarvoor ons wil selekteer. Ons weet byvoorbeeld dat n hoë marmering telling gewoonlik uit n bul kom wat nie n goeie groeier is nie. Maar dit is nie altyd die geval nie. Jy kry bulle met goeie marmering asook goeie groei, want soos hierbo genoem, is die korrelasie 30% en nie 100% nie. Ons breek hierdie korrelasies omdat ons die Wagyu databasis (tans gebruik ons die Australiese databasis waarvan ons diere meestal af kom) kan myn en sulke bulle (of koeie) identifiseer. Terloops, n onlangse artikel in die Economist wys dat data (alle stambome, geboortes, gewigte, karkasdata, voerdoeltreffendheiddata, siekte weerstand ens.) die wêreld se mees waardevolste bron is. In hierdie eeu is die belangrikste bate van enige genootskap sy databasis vanaf die lede, veral in die genomiese era waarin ons nou beweeg. Genetiese Korrelasies tussen sekere eienskappe Jaaroud gewig Marmering Voeriname Geboorte gewig 64% X Speen gewig 67% -25% Jaaroud gewig x -30%% Marmering telling x X 90% Inteling Eenvoudig gestel is inteling die paring van verwante individue. Dit is wiskundig presies die teenoorgestelde as kruisteling d.w.s. indien jy 10-15% verhoging in produksie verwag met kruisteling kan jy n 10-15% verlaging in produksie verwag a.g.v. inteling. Die kruisteling effek noem ons heterose (basterkrag) en die intelingseffek noem ons inteeltdepressie. Inteling kan in n ras gebruik word maar hoë vlakke van inteling moet vermy word, veral by Wagyu. Die beroemde Amerikaanse Hereford-bul TT Triumphant het amper die ras vernietig toe daar na baie generasies van inteling op dogters vasgestel is dat hy die dwerggroei-geen dra. Die probleem met inteling is nie noodwendig die eerste of tweede geslag nie maar in daaropvolgende geslagte wanneer nageslag met mekaar begin teel. Resessiewe (skadelike) gene word met inteling vasgeteel soos met TT Triumphant gebeur het. Terloops, sommige KImaatskappye het in die verlede n bul doelbewus op sowat 35 dogters gepaar om met 90% sekerheid te kon vasstel of hy nie ernstige mutasies dra nie. 52

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55 Die wetenskap se riglyn oor inteling is dat onder 5% as minimaal beskou word, tussen 5% en 10% as matig, en bokant 10% as hoog. Inteling persentasie vir verskillende parings Paring Inteling persentasie Vol broer-suster paring 25% Half broer suster paring 12.5% Pa op dogter paring 25% Pa op kleindogter 12.5% Nefies en niggies 6.25% Breedplan se Seleksie Indeks en teelwaardes n Seleksie indeks is die Rand- of Dollarwaarde van n bul of koei en seleksievordering word bereken as die Randwaarde per koei gepaar per jaar. Soos voorheen genoem het ons nog nie genoegsame data, veral karkasdata, in Suid Afrika om n teelwaarde-analise uit te voernie. Ons het ook geen ander keuse as om huidiglik die Australiese databasis te gebruik nie. Hulle Breedplan teelwaardes asook seleksie-indekse kan op die internet opgesoek word by au Search/Animal search en daarna EBV Enquiry. Indien ons n hoë akkurate bul opsoek (bokant 90% vir speen), wat baie goed op beide die Self replacing asook Terminal index is, dan kry ons die volgende bul as voorbeeld. Onder sien ons die hoeveelheid kuddes waarin die bul se nageslag gebruik is, asook hoeveel dogters die bul het (dit beïnvloed die akkuraatheid van die melkteelwaardes). Die rasgemiddeld word altyd gegee en dit is die basis waarmee vergelyk word. Die bul is bokant gemiddeld vir groei (beide speen, 600-dae) onder gemiddeld op volwasse koei gewig, bo gemiddeld vir oogspieroppervlakte asook marmering. Sy seleksie indeks syfer is op al drie die indekse bo gemiddeld. Op syfers is hierdie n uitstaande bul. So kan elke teler alle bulle op die databasis opsoek en seker maak dat die bul wat jy gaan gebruik gaan presteer. Instuur van data Dit is krities belangrik dat telers in Suid Afrika hulle prestasiedata vir die genootskap stuur. Sonder data is daar geen genetiese evaluasie nie. Sonder n genetiese evaluasie is daar geen genootskap nie. Sonder n genootskap is daar geen ras. Die vorms is op die webblad beskikbaar by Resource Centre/ Vorms. Skakel gerus die kantoor en ons help jou hulle invul. Gosey.pdf [Redakteur] Hierdie is n uittreksels van n artikel wat in 2016 in Landbouweekblad geplaas is en vir Wagyu aangepas is. 55

56 History & Benefits of AARON COOPER, Ph.D. History There are four primary beef breeds of cattle in Japan (Japan Black, Japansese Brown, Japanese Poll and Japanese Shorthorn). Many strains can be found within each breed depending on the prefecture (Island) and region. Within the Japanese Brown breed there are two main strains, the Kochi and Kumamoto Reds. In the late 1800 s to early 1900 s the Japanese imported live cattle of British, European and Korean breeds. The Kumamoto strain of Japanese Browns were crossed with Korean Hanwoo, Devon and Simmental (Namikawa, 1992). In 1976, four bulls were imported from Japan by Morris Whitney. Two of the bulls (Rueshaw and Judo) were Japanese Brown bulls from the Kumamoto prefecture that we refer to now as Akaushi or Red Wagyu. Colorado State and Washington State University did research with graded-up progeny since no fullblood females were available at that time. In 1994, Englewood (Dr. Al and Marie Woods, Texas) purchased Akaushi cattle in the Kumamoto prefecture of Japan with help from Mr. Yukio Kurosawatsu (Wagyu Sekai, Japan/Canada), Dr. Takuma Fuji (Kumamoto) and others. The fullblood cattle were subsequently imported by Mannet who were on their second Japanese Black importation. Seven Akaushi females (Namiko, Akiko, Haruko, Fuyuko, Ume, Dai 8 Marunami, Ringo 117) and three Akaushi bulls (Shigemaru, Tamamaru and Hikari) constituted the eventual HeartBrand Cattle Company original purchase. After their arrival to the U.S., female Dai 9 Koubai 73 was purchased from Yukio Kurosawatsu and females Himawari 245 and Hitomi 244 were purchased from Shogo Takeda (Japan, verified by USDA documentation). Akiko gave birth to Big Al 502 (originally named Mitsuaki) in quarantine after arriving in the U.S. Wagyu Sekai took the imported females Naomi and Dai 3 Namiaki Ni and their calves (Momigimaru and Kaedemaru, respectively) that were born in U.S. quarantine to Canada. They were in the second Mannet importation as well. As well in 1994, Japanese Venture Partners (JVP) imported two red heifers (124 Kunisakae and 27 Homare). Benefits Fertility Reproduction traits (both in males and females) have been one of the most beneficial aspects of the Akaushi breed. The HeartBrand herd of 3,000 head of Akaushi females in Texas has experienced conception rates of over 90% for many years. Male fertility is exceptional and has been reliable during breeding seasons in hot climates. In fact, Akaushi bulls will continue to produce semen at collections centers throughout the hottest months when Brahman and other Bos indicus breeds fail to do so. Calving ease The American Akaushi Association reports an unadjusted breed average for birth weight of 68 pounds (30.8 kg) across thousands of fullblood records. Calf presentation in the birthing canal is typically proper. We deem the Akaushi breed as calving ease, however, not all Akaushi (and Black Wagyu) bulls are suitable for first calf heifers as there can be variation in calf size at birth and lineage tendencies. Early marbling 95% or higher of F1 Akaushi terminal crosses will finish BMS 3+ at months of age weighing ~ kg on short fed grain rations even when crossed with Bos indicus influenced females. As the grain finishing period lengthens they have the propensity to achieve higher BMS levels in a linear manner (Sasaki et al., 2006). Fullblood Akaushi that are months of age at harvest will weigh ~660 kg and 75%+ will be BMS 7+ when grain fed for longer periods. Grass finishing utilization A growing number of farmers are using Akaushi genetics to increase the value of their grass finished 56

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58 cattle. The early results indicate an increase in marbling and desirable flavor versus their non-wagyu cattle. Therefore, the farmers are able to increase the value of the product in the marketplace. Udder quality Akaushi breeders can expect a well balanced high quality udder on the females. Akaushi can correct poorer quality udders in breeds where problems exist with bottle teats, low slung and pendulous udders. Health benefits Additional marbling contributes to more health benefits of the beef. Akaushi specific research data done by Dr. Stephen Smith, TAMU reported per 100 grams of raw meat a MUFA:SFA ratio of 1.26, oleic aid content of 9.56 grams and CLA content of 89 mg. These values were well above the non-wagyu commodity beef tested. Genetically clean Currently Akaushi do not have any genetic disorders that hinder production. There has been no evidence suggesting F11 affects Akaushi cattle in any manner. As with any breed some level of attention should be place on breeding strategies to avoid unfavorable genetic combinations (e.g., incest matings). As well, low performing and less thrifty animals should be culled to avoid propagating inferior genetics into cattle herds. Longevity Fertility, structural soundness, udder constitution and other traits represent the main reasons why a female exhibits stayability within a herd. All of these traits are strong within the Akaushi breed. It is not uncommon to see 12 to 15 year old fullblood females with perfect calving records in established herd in the U.S. Sources: Namikawa, K Breeding history of Japanese Beef cattle and preservation of genetic resources as economic farm animals. Wagyu. 2nd ed. Wagyu Registry Assoc., Kyoto, Japan. Sasaki, Y., T. Miyake, C. Gaillard, T. Oguni, M. Matsumoto, M. Ito, T. Kurahara, Y. Sasae, K. Fujinaka, S. Ohtagaki, and T. Dougo Comparison of genetic gains per year for carcass traits among breeding programs in the Japanese Brown and the Japanese Black cattle. J. Anim. Sci. 84:

59 7 January: Wagyu Office Open 12 February: Wagyu South Africa Board Meeting, Bloemfontein 13 February: LRF AJV, Bloemfontein 15 February: Platinum Beef Auction 22 February: Beyond Beef 2 nd Production Auction 27 February: Breedplan/Genomics, Bloemfontein 28 February: HerdMASTER, Bloemfontein 28 February: Final date for adverts, Wagyu Newsletter 5 March: Breedplan Course, Pretoria 6 March: HerdMASTER Course, Pretoria 27 March: Breedplan/Genomics, Stellenbosch 28 March: HerdMASTER, Stellenbosch 5-7 April: Bathurst Show 9 April: Wagyu Board Meeting: Skype 15 April: Wagyu Newsletter mailed 26 April: Agri-Expo, Sandringham, Stellenbosch May: NAMPO 18 May: Woodview Wagyu 4 th Production Auction, Arlington 21 May: Final entries for National and Out of the Flask auction May: Royal Show 15 June: Wagyu South Africa Board Meeting 16 June: Rising Sun s Winter Wine and Wagyu Festival 25 June: Breedplan/Genomics, Pretoria 26 June: HerdMASTER, Pretoria June: Kirkwood Game Festival 19 July: Certified Breeders Auction, Pretoria 1 August: Final date for adverts, Wagyu Newsletter 15 August: Wagyu South Africa Technical (09h00-13h00) & Industry Conference (14h00-15h30) 15 August: Wagyu South Africa AGM 15h30-17h30 15 August: Wagyu South Africa Social Get Together (Evening) 16 August: Wagyu South Africa Outlook Conference (09h00-13h00) 16 August: Elite Wagyu National Auction (14h00-17h00) 16 August: Elite Wagyu Out of the Flask Auction (18h00-19h00) 16 August: Wagyu South Africa Gala Dinner (19h00-21h00) 10 September: Wagyu Newsletter mailed 11 September: Chris Purdon Wagyu Production Auction Glenfinlas, Cathcart September: ALFA Livestock Expo, Parys 15 October: LRF Council Meeting October: Aldam Stockman School 5 November: Final date for adverts, Wagyu Newsletter November: Animal Breeding Diploma Course (UV, Bloemfotein) 5 December: Wagyu Newsletter posted 13 December: Wagyu Office Closes 2019

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