Scottish Government extends genomics partnership with Neogen
Neogen Corporation (Nasdaq: NEOG) announced today the Scottish Government has formally extended its partnership with Neogen in Ayr, Scotland, to perform genomics testing as part of the government’s program to improve the country’s beef herd.
The genomic testing partnership was initiated in October 2016, and now has been extended through September 2021. The Beef Efficiency Scheme (BES) is funded as part of the Scottish Rural Development programme 2014–2020. BES is a climate change scheme that aims to improve the efficiency, sustainability and quality of the Scottish beef herd. The five-year project is a collaboration between the Scottish Government and Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC). Neogen is responsible for the project’s animal genotyping and supply of sampling kits.
“We are obviously very gratified to have earned the partnership extension, and to be continuing as a part of this important project,” said Dr. Gary Evans, Neogen’s European Genomics business development manager. “The genotyping that we have performed is being used by SRUC to develop predictions for improved genetic selection in respect of growth rates, feed conversion, maternal behaviour, nutrition practice, and disease resistance for commercial beef farmers.”
Scottish beef has long been recognized for its high quality, and beef production is at the heart of Scottish agriculture. The country’s climate, soil type, and overall topography create ideal conditions for beef cattle to thrive.
All processes, procedures, and equipment in Neogen’s European laboratory reflect Neogen’s flagship genomics laboratory in Lincoln, Nebraska — which is the largest animal genomics laboratory in the world. In addition to operations in the U.S. and Scotland, Neogen also operates genomics laboratories in Brazil, Australia, and Canada.
Neogen genomics laboratories process samples from a range of species including cattle, pigs, canine, poultry and equine. The laboratories can work with any sample types, including hair, blood, semen, swabs, and tissue. For further information on Neogen’s genomics laboratory, the range of genomic testing offered or technical support, email neogen_genomics@neogeneurope.com or call 01292 526 094.
Neogen Corporation develops and markets products dedicated to food and animal safety. The company’s Food Safety Division markets dehydrated culture media and diagnostic test kits to detect foodborne bacteria, natural toxins, food allergens, drug residues, plant diseases, and sanitation concerns. Neogen’s Animal Safety Division is a leader in the development of animal genomics along with the manufacturing and distribution of a variety of animal healthcare products, including diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, veterinary instruments, wound care, and disinfectants.