TResearch
2023
Hide and seek As fresh produce consumption rises, so too do potential risks. New research in Irish horticulture explores where hidden contamination can occur, and how to stop it before it reaches your plate. While fresh produce is increasingly a part of healthier diets, it’s important to understand potential sources of contamination […]
Securing farm futures Low pension coverage and late retirement are stalling generational renewal. New research compares EU systems to explore solutions for supporting Irish farmers through the retirement transition. The sustainability of agriculture in Europe is deeply intertwined with the financial wellbeing of its farmers, particularly concerning retirement provisions. As the farming […]
Leaf it to science As climate change reshapes growing conditions, Irish forests must adapt. New research explores how species choice, genetic diversity, and forest management can help build resilience from the roots up. Continuous cover forestry systems are close to nature forests and allow newly regenerated seedlings to prosper under the cover […]
Milking the data Leveraging data from technologies offers farmers a unique opportunity to enhance the productivity, sustainability and welfare of Irish pasture-based systems. Credit: MSD Animal Health Cows that show signs of heat before the breeding season are significantly more likely to become pregnant, a finding that’s helping farmers in seasonal-calving systems […]
Rooting innovation: shaping Ireland’s apple future A research initiative at Teagasc Oak Park aims to boost apple production in Ireland by exploring innovative training systems and rootstocks. The project focuses on improving yield efficiency, enhancing fruit quality, and cutting labour costs, offering Irish growers strategies tailored to the local climate. Credit: Teagasc […]
Could the grass be greener? Agriculture forms a key part of Ireland’s economy, but the sector must improve its use of renewable energy to withstand rising economic and sustainability challenges. Credit: aluxum/istockphoto.com The agricultural sector is a cornerstone of the Irish economy, contributing significantly to exports, rural employment and national food security. […]
Going viral Research at the Horticulture Development Department at Teagasc Ashtown is exploring the potential use of viruses to combat pathogens in commercial mushroom cultivation. Typical symptoms of dry bubble disease on a mushroom crop. Credit: Teagasc Mushroom cultivation is a significant horticultural enterprise in many countries. In Ireland, commercial mushroom production […]
Cultivating safety: sowing the seeds of safer farming How do farming experience and social influences shape safety awareness among young farmers? This research explores the behavioural drivers of farm injury risk perception. Credit: SolStock/istockphoto.com Although farm safety is governed by legislation, it is strongly influenced by individual behaviours. These behaviours are shaped […]
Turning waste into wealth: the hidden potential of animal blood proteins Animal blood is a nutrient-rich by-product offering sustainable solutions. Innovative processes transform it into valuable products, turning waste into wealth and advancing a circular economy. Credit: MediaProduction/istockphoto.com Ireland has established itself […]
Interview: Not for lack of drying A Senior Research Officer at Teagasc Moorepark’s Food Research Centre, Eoin Murphy is focused on improving drying processes and associated energy usage in the dairy industry. An upcoming symposium in Cork will be examining this sector’s challenges and opportunities. […]