1.11 Relation society and breeding (2024)

So where are we today? Changes that occurred in the field of animal breeding have always been connected to changes in society. It was a matter of a combination of availability of techniques and market demands. According to FAO: “animals source foods make a vital contribution to global nutrition and are an excellent source of macro- and micro-nutrients. Livestock products make up 18% of global calories, 34% of global protein consumption and provides essential micro-nutrients, such as vitamin B12, iron, zinc and calcium. Keeping livestock provides a secure source of income for over 500 million poor people. And it is expected that in 2025 the world will count 9.6 billion people, 70% living in cities with  an average income almost twice as high as today. As a result, global demand for animal products will continue to grow”.