Two Journal of Dairy Science studies examine breed efficiency and the challenges facing dairy farmers
Canada/United States: New research published in the Journal of Dairy Science has examined two important aspects of the dairy industry: how Jersey and Holstein cows compare in production and feed efficiency, and how farm management and working conditions influence the well-being of dairy farmers.
The studies, published in Volume 109, No. 7 (2026), provide insights that could help dairy producers make better decisions around breed selection, nutrition, farm management and farmer support.
Jersey and Holstein performance compared
The first study used a meta-analysis and meta-regression to compare dry matter intake (DMI), production performance, feed efficiency and milk nitrogen efficiency between Jersey and Holstein cows.
Researchers analysed 30 peer-reviewed studies in which purebred Jerseys and Holsteins were raised under comparable experimental conditions. The dataset included 1,478 cows, comprising 806 Holsteins and 673 Jerseys.
The research examined whether Jerseys had an advantage in feed efficiency when measured through energy-corrected milk, while also assessing milk nitrogen efficiency.
| Measure | Study finding |
|---|---|
| Studies analysed | 30 |
| Total cows | 1,478 |
| Holsteins | 806 |
| Jerseys | 673 |
| Energy-corrected milk feed efficiency | Similar between breeds |
| Milk nitrogen efficiency | Similar between breeds |
| Important influencing factors | Year, days in milk, diet and forage type |
Production differences change throughout lactation
The researchers found that breed affected several production and intake variables. However, feed efficiency based on energy-corrected milk and milk nitrogen efficiency were not significantly different between Jersey and Holstein cows.
The study also found that the production gap between the breeds can change as lactation progresses.
Holsteins tend to have a stronger advantage for milk volume during early lactation, while Jerseys maintain production relatively better later in lactation. The findings suggest that Jerseys can become increasingly competitive for milk-fat production as lactation progresses.
Diet also influenced the differences between breeds. Higher-NDF diets appeared to favour Jerseys comparatively more, reducing the milk-yield advantage generally associated with Holsteins.
The researchers therefore concluded that breed selection should consider individual farm objectives, feeding systems, milk payment structures and feed costs rather than relying solely on overall milk volume.
Economic and environmental trade-offs
The research also highlights a broader trade-off between the two breeds. Jerseys generally have lower body size and feed requirements, while Holsteins produce greater volumes of milk and milk components.
Previous research cited by the authors has suggested that Jersey milk and cheese can have advantages in terms of natural resource use and carbon footprint. However, lower production volumes may affect profitability depending on milk pricing and component premiums.
Dairy farmer well-being examined
The second study investigated the physical, mental and social well-being of 115 dairy farmers in Western Canada and Ontario.
Researchers surveyed farmers between May 2023 and April 2024, examining work responsibilities, housing and milking systems, work-life balance, social support, farm management practices, stressors and physical health.
The study found that financial concerns, feeding costs, weather variability and workload were among the key stressors reported by participants.
Social support linked with better well-being
Farmers who felt supported at home, had someone they could talk to at work, or worked with family members generally reported better mental well-being.
Participants who felt highly valued by consumers also recorded lower stress, anxiety and depression scores and higher resilience than those who felt less valued.
The researchers emphasised that larger studies will be needed to establish the strength of these relationships and identify effective interventions.
Together, the studies highlight the importance of considering both farm productivity and farmer well-being when developing sustainable dairy production systems. Breed selection, nutrition and management decisions can influence farm performance, while social support, financial pressures and workload can significantly affect the people responsible for running dairy operations.
