DairyTalk 321: More Fat, Less Size: How the Updated NM$ Index Shifts Breeding Priorities - by Helmut Demmelhuber

This podcast episode draws on an industry analysis examining the
2025 revision of the Net Merit index and its implications for
Holstein breeding. A central element is the newly introduced
economic penalty on higher body weight, designed to place greater
emphasis on feed efficiency and environmental sustainability. At
the same time, the index increases the weighting of butterfat
production and integrates genomic indicators for resistance to
respiratory and diarrheal diseases. Rising inbreeding levels
within the Holstein population add another layer of complexity
for breeding programs. The discussion highlights how producers
can use the national index as a guiding framework while adapting
breeding decisions to their own herd economics and genetic
diversity goals. With comments on a "The Bullvine"-article (March
5th, 2026) by Andrew Hunt: https://www.thebullvine.com