Good agricultural practices on dairy farms

Abstract

This study hypothesizes that the implementation of diagnostics-based, corrective protocols to address non-compliances in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) programs in individual dairy farms improves collective dairy quality programs. Essentially, GAP programs should entail a set of overarching elements to promote animal husbandry and productive farm management. This ultimately fosters product quality, safety and integrity, amidst widely desirable economic, environmental and social impacts. After GAP assessment by using a diagnosis tool, customized corrective protocols was proposed by the technical advisor and the farmer, taking account thirty-three (33) indicators in six key areas as recommended by FAO. The results showed that only one in fourteen farms didn´t show significant improvement (p < 0,05). The results that the hipothesis shouldn´t be rejected.