ABCZ brings PMGZ Leite to ExpoGenética for first time

The 19th edition of ExpoGenética, organised by the Brazilian Association of Zebu Breeders (ABCZ), includes dairy cattle in its programme for the first time. The exhibition in Minas Gerais has assigned two pavilions to PMGZ Leite, with 36 animals representing Sindi, Girolando, Guzerá and Guzolando Max.

Selection for the exhibition was based on genetic merit related to milk production. The herds from which the animals came must be active in PMGZ Leite, conduct milk recording and use those records in decisions within an upward selection process.

Rafael Vizoná, ABCZ’s manager for genetic improvement in dairy cattle, said the programme’s inclusion reflected the importance already attached to ExpoGenética by the production chain. He said the event generates a large volume of data and results, while the dairy sector also works with information and measurements relevant to its activities. “We felt the need for milk to have a presence at this fair, which is our home,” he said.

Visitors can examine certificates showing the performance of cows assessed by the programme. One is Lactação Ouro, awarded to animals with notable milk-production results. The pavilions also provide information on the F1 Max programme for breeders assessing the genetic potential of animals for their herds.

The event also features the launch of Classificação Top Zebu Leiteiro. The publication lists the zebu cows with the strongest productive and reproductive performance. ABCZ is making the material available on its website as well as at the fair.

Vizoná said ABCZ intended to maintain dairy cattle’s presence at future editions. He said the organisation hoped to have pavilions and events at the fair every year, adding that a second forum was already being planned. ExpoGenética is supported by Emater-MG, Faculdades Associadas de Uberaba, Sebrae and Sistema CNA/Faemg/Senar. Its sponsors are Neogen, Virbac, Romancini Troncos & Balanças and Real H – Nutrição e Saúde Animal.