Influences of herd treatment on product quality in a dairy farm in Santa Maria de Itabira/MG

Abstract

The agricultural sector has been gaining ground and becoming present in the food sector. The population is even more concerned about consuming products with a well-known origin and then, they look for companies that innovate, that have quality and healthier products. Given this scenario, we sought to understand the influence of herd management on the final product in the perception of professionals involved in the agricultural and dairy sectors. This article is a qualitative descriptive research, through interviews with employees of a dairy in Santa Maria de Itabira – MG. Interviewees confirm that well-treated and well managed herds present better returns, both productive and financial, and moreover guaranteeing quality to the product and safety to the dairy. It was possible to understand the relevance of a structured farm prepared to manage the herd and also capture the importance of animal supplementation and correct soil fertilization, both linked to the quality of the milk. Based on the interviewees' statements, it was possible to identify that adequate treatment, sanitary conditions, rural facilities, and good supplementation are fundamental to guarantee not only productivity, but also the quality of the milk produced and consequently the final product meeting customer expectations.