The Canadian Podcow

DFC has finalized new requirements for the housing of calves, dry cattle, and lactating cattle in the proAction Animal Care module. The new requirements align with recent updates to the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Dairy Cattle, and will be part of on-farm validations starting in April 2027. Learn more about the new requirements on the Canadian Podcow.

Protein is having a moment—and the food industry is racing to keep up. From fortified pizza crusts to high-protein snacks and cereals, this once-simple nutrient has become a powerful marketing force shaping what ends up on our plates. For the dairy sector, long known for naturally high-quality protein, this shift presents both opportunity and challenge. In this second episode, we go deeper with in...

Protein is having a moment—and the food industry is racing to keep up. From fortified pizza crusts to high-protein snacks and cereals, this once-simple nutrient has become a powerful marketing force shaping what ends up on our plates. For the dairy sector, long known for naturally high-quality protein, this shift presents both opportunity and challenge. In this first episode, we explore how the pr...

In this episode of the Canadian Podcow, Sarah Sache and Andrew Campbell break down the forces shaping today’s dairy market. From global demand shifts to rising input costs and production pressures, they explore why the outlook feels so different depending on whether you’re a farmer, processor, or policymaker. With special guest Maxime Collette, Lead, Policy analysis at Dairy Farmers of Canada, the...

In celebration of International Women’s Day, and with the United Nations declaring 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer, global attention is turning to the essential role women play across agrifood systems—from production to trade. Women farmers are central to food security, nutrition, and economic resilience. In this episode, we do our part by featuring Annie AcMoody, a leading figure...

In this episode, we unpack some of the biggest trade questions shaping 2026. With our guest Steve Verheul, one of Canada's top trade negotiator, we explore the evolving dynamics of Canada’s relationship with the United States, including the upcoming review of the Canada‑U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), and what this moment means for all three countries. Tariffs, security concerns, domestic politics,...

CowSignals is a practical, preventative approach that helps dairy farmers observe and interpret cows’ behavior and physical cues to better understand their health and comfort. By paying attention to everyday signals related to feeding, lying, rumination, posture, and stress, farmers can identify management or environmental issues early, before they turn into disease or lost productivity. The goal...

The new Carney government is expecting to table its budget on November 4th, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre is back in the House of Commons after losing his seat in the Ottawa-area, the NDP has launched its leadership race. Meanwhile, the trade war with the United States continues. People are worried about the economy and the trade war is having an impact. What should we expect from this gove...

In this episode, we dig into grazing and pasture management with an expert who’s seen it all—and knows exactly how to turn grass into profits. From practical tips and common pitfalls to smart strategies that boost both productivity and profitability, you’ll hear how letting the cows do what they do best can transform your farm. Whether you’re a seasoned grazer or just curious about getting started...

Many Canadian dairy farmers want to measure their carbon footprints to learn how they can take practical, individual action towards making their farms more sustainable businesses. To this end, DFC and the provincial dairy associations are guiding the implementation of a pilot project to test an on-farm GHG emissions calculator, called the Cool Farm Tool. It is designed to help measure a farm’s car...

The highly pathogenic avian influenza has not been detected in dairy cattle or other cattle in Canada and is a reportable disease under the Health of Animals Act .. It has been present in the United States for over a year. Dairy cows in the US have tested positive for the first time to the new D1.1 strain of the H5N1 avian flu. Canadian authorities are following the evolution of the situation very...

In this episode, we explore the European perspective on the dairy industry with Alexander Anton, Secretary General of the European Dairy Association. Europe is a key player in dairy production and exports and plays a crucial role in feeding the world while driving sustainability, innovation, and fair trade. From supporting local communities to shaping international markets, we dive into the polici...

In 2025, the Canadian dairy market faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities. This episode explores current trends, from fluctuating milk prices to evolving consumer expectations. With Julia Trottier, Analyst, Policy & Trade at Dairy Farmers of Canada, and Maxime Collette, Senior Analyst, Market Intelligence at DFC, we review the issues shaping the future of the dairy sector. Through in...

Donald Trump’s tariff threats are causing many Canadians to react and choose Canadian products. By buying Canadian, consumers are supporting the livelihoods of farmers, factory workers, small business owners and countless jobs in every region. With our guest, Pamela Nalewajek, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Dairy Farmers of Canada, we discuss the importance of buying Canadian dairy...

The arrival of Donald Trump at the White House and the announced departure of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau are shaking things up. Public opinion is changing as we navigate in an atmosphere of uncertainty and anticipation. Compounded with the the threats of tariffs, there has been a noticeable change in how people feel about the current environment. The shifting mood is likely to influence upcomin...

Uncertainty has been the name of the game since the American election, and the months ahead could be challenging. In this episode, we break down the unpredictable political landscape, the trade turmoil, and the economic perspectives in the coming months. With our guest, Vincent Cloutier, Senior Director, Agriculture Strategy at the National Bank, we look ahead at what could affect the competitiven...

Whether you’re running a large operation or a small family farm, electrical safety and prevention is key. This week, we’re tackling one of the most important topics in farming: keeping your electrical systems and equipment safe, well-maintained, and hazard-free. Join us as we explore how to properly inspect and maintain electrical equipment. We will have tips to prevent common electrical issues on...

The Canadian Dairy Hub is a new tool to support Canadian dairy farmers through industry changes. Users of the hub will have access to free science-based, practical expertise to accelerate awareness and adoption of best practices and innovations. With our guest Vicki Brisson, National Knowledge Mobilization Manager at Lactanet, we explore what will be available on the Canadian Dairy Hub. Explore th...

Cybersecurity may seem like an issue reserved for high-tech industries, but today’s dairy farms rely on digital tools more than ever before. Cyberattacks on farms can impact everything from data security to equipment functionality, with hackers increasingly targeting vulnerable agricultural technologies. Protecting these systems is crucial to maintaining seamless operations and preventing potentia...

What role do government policies and regulations play in shaping the dairy industry and supporting the dairy supply chain? What are the key objectives and priorities in different areas? What changes could happen to better support dairy farmers? In this episode, we look at what is happening with the dairy industry in Wisconsin, California and in New South Wales, Australia.

While the Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has not been detected in dairy cattle or other cattle in Canada, we have learned many things since the outbreak in the United States. HPAI is not a food safety concern and the risk of transmission to humans remains low. Our host Andrew Campbell led a conversation with Dr. Robert Tremblay during DFC's 2024 Annual General Meeting.

As the dairy industry is facing the growing challenge of climate change, carbon markets offer a unique opportunity for farmers to not only reduce their carbon footprint but also create new revenue streams. In this episode, we explore how these markets work, the benefits they bring to farmers, and the practical steps for getting involved.

Dairy and pizza are closely linked, with dairy products, especially cheese, being a fundamental component of pizza. The dairy industry supports pizza production by supplying large quantities of cheese. Pizza Pizza and Dairy Farmers of Canada are building on the success of pizza as a globally popular food to reinforce the ties to Canadian dairy farming.

Starbucks is committed to support dairy sustainability and the continued efforts of Canadian dairy farmers on their path to net zero. Dairy is an integral part of the Starbucks menu, and supporting the long-term health of the Canadian dairy sector is one of the latest efforts in the company’s global commitment to a resource-positive future. In this episode, we discuss Starbucks' approach with Juli...

In this episode a discussion between Steven Roche from Acer Consulting and Doctor Katie Proudfoot, an animal health and welfare researcher that works at the University of Prince Edward Island. Katie has a great background in dairy cattle welfare, having conducted research in British Columbia, the United States, and now on the Atlantic side of Canada. Get ready to hear her perspectives on why produ...