The Polish Mastitis Association: the success story of improving milk quality in Poland
Poland is one of the countries whose economy has grown significantly in the last 30 years. Its willingness to reunite with Europe (after the Cold War) sparked industrial and social development and the Polish dairy sector is definitely one of these areas.
History of the Polish Mastitis Association (PMA)
Poland is the 3rd country in the European Union in terms of the number of dairy cows (2 million) and milk production (14.7 million tons) and still has the potential to grow.
In 2012, the amount of milk produced per cow was slightly over 5,000 kg/cow, which was about 50% less than in leading EU dairy markets. To increase milk production it is crucial to invest in genetics, facilities, nutrition, animal welfare, management of animals and prevention of mastitis. This is why the Polish Mastitis Association (PMA) was established 10 years ago.
The Polish Mastitis Association (PMA) played an important role in the development of milk quality in Poland
Ten years ago, some EU countries had already started to work on local programmes aimed at reducing and controlling the consumption of antibiotics Unfortunately, some Polish veterinarians and farmers were not prepared to make the necessary changes that would lead to a prudent use of antibiotics. It was a perfect opportunity for the members of the PMA to start educating dairy professionals about new trends in the dairy industry and preventive measures.
What does the PMA do?
Every year the PMA organizes an event hosting key experts and opinion leaders from different countries who share their knowledge based on practical experience and the latest reports about management, welfare, milking equipment and changes in nutritional trends which impact the dairy sector and society.
Moreover, the PMA has created a Mastitis Control Plan. In this graphic, specific key aspects in milk quality are represented at every step in the production cycle of the cow: heifer management, calving/ post calving, lactation and dry-off. This helps to connect the specific problem on the timeline with the proposed solution or preventive tool.
The Mastitis Control Plan is based on the One Health concept and the 5 Point Mastitis Control Plan of the National Mastitis Council, but some improvements have been introduced.
It is worth mentioning that Members of the PMA, who are well recognized experts in the field, also transfer their knowledge and skills on social media, in articles, farm audits, farmers’ meetings and on-line courses.
The aim of members of the PMA is to increase awareness about mastitis prevention, animal welfare and improved management
A special year for the PMA
This year, over 330 dairy professionals celebrated the 10th anniversary of the creation of this unique “platform”. It was also a great opportunity to thank companies from the dairy sector, who as official partners, financially supported the association.
The PMA is a perfect example of a successful joint effort in introducing milk quality concepts in Poland. And there is more to come!
Article written by:
Michal Pochodyla DVM PhD, President of Polish Mastitis Association
