Storm-proofing Alberta beef: The impact of Verified Beef Production Plus

This article was first published in Volume 4 Issue 3 of ABP Magazine (September 2024). Watch for more digital content from the magazine on ABP Daily.

Alberta beef producers have the Verified Beef Production Plus (VBP+) program to help them ‘prepare for the storms.’ Whether it’s localized ‘squalls’ like scours that can devastate an individual producers, or large ‘winter storms’ that could have devastating impacts like BSE did in 2003, the program is there to prevent and minimize the impact of the ‘storms’ beef producers might face.

Keeping the storm of public perception at bay

In an era where public trust in the food system is wavering, the VBP+ program offers reliability and integrity for Canadian beef producers. Recent data from the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity Initiative (CCFI) reveals that 25 per cent of Canadians believe the food system is heading in the wrong direction. This sentiment highlights the immediate need for programs like VBP+ that tackle consumer concerns directly. By enhancing on-farm food safety practices and animal care practices, VBP+ aligns with public expectations. This proactive approach ensures that producers can weather the storm of potential public distrust.

Weathering the storm of infectious diseases

The VBP+ program equips the Canadian beef industry to withstand the tempest of trade-limiting diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). Research underscores the catastrophic impact a major biosecurity event like FMD could have, with potential losses estimated at a staggering $65 billion. Such an outbreak would not only devastate the livestock sector but also ripple through the grain, veterinary and tourism industries, with Alberta bearing the brunt of these economic losses.

VBP+ implements rigorous on-farm food safety and biosecurity standards. Since its inception in 2003, the program has continually evolved, recently incorporating the federal Beef Cattle On-Farm Bio-Security Standard in 2023. This ensures that producers are not only prepared for potential outbreaks but are also actively working to prevent them. By promoting best practices in animal health, biosecurity and environmental sustainability, VBP+ helps producers minimize the risk of disease outbreaks and maintain public trust.

By meeting the VBP+ Standard, especially in relation to indicators related to disease management, producers can increase the number of healthy calves, boost weight gain and significantly reduce costs associated with treating sick animals and managing open cows. This forward thinking approach ensures that the herd remains resilient and productive.

Simple yet impactful best practices play a crucial role in this preventive strategy

• Segregating and vaccinating new cattle upon arrival helps prevent the induction and spread of diseases within the herd.
• Avoiding the use of colostrum from other farms minimizes the risk of transferring pathogens to vulnerable newborns.
• Washing boots after visiting cattle shows, farm tours and auction markets prevents the inadvertent spread of contaminants.

Straightforward and simple actions like those listed above, along with many others provided in VBP+ training and resources, help batten the hatches before a storm. They help maintain herd health and productivity, allowing producers to navigate the complexities of livestock management with confidence and peace of mind.

By embracing VBP+ standards, producers can maintain the health and productivity of their herds, safeguard public trust and ensure the resilience of the Canadian beef industry. In a world were uncertainties are inevitable, being prepared is the key to thriving.