The EFICAS project, led by the ISFOOD Institute at the Public University of Navarra in collaboration with the company Albaikide, will apply genetic and microbiome markers to improve farm profitability and strengthen animal welfare. Co-financed through the Navarra CAP 2023–2027, the initiative aims to strengthen the region’s agri-food ecosystem.
The project combines genetic analysis to select cows with greater cheese-making potential—by identifying the BB genotype of kappa-casein—with milk microbiome studies that enable early diagnosis of mastitis. This dual approach seeks to improve farm productivity, reduce losses linked to udder diseases, and optimise cheese yield.
The research team, led by Professor Olaia Urrutia and composed of experts from UPNA and Albaikide, is focused on delivering practical, scientifically validated tools to address key challenges such as generational renewal, rising production costs, and the need to add value to dairy products.
This initiative places Navarra at the forefront of agri-food innovation, driving scientific knowledge towards one of the key sectors of its rural economy. In this regard, developing milk with enhanced suitability for high-quality cheese production not only improves farm profitability but also strengthens the sustainability and resilience of a livestock model geared towards the future.
The importance of the agri-food sector
Navarrese companies span the entire value chain, from primary production to the agri-food industry. Highlights include Spain’s two largest frozen vegetable producers (Ultracongelados Virto and Congelados de Navarra); the country’s biggest cereal cooperative (Grupo AN); Viscofan, the global leader in manufacturing and marketing food casings, with sales in over 100 countries; Florette, Spain’s top producer of ready-to-eat salads and fresh vegetables; and leading multinationals such as General Mills, Gelagri, Mondelēz, and Agrozumos. More information at the following link.
Source: Diario de Navarra