Tonne
tonne: A unit of measurement of weight, equal to 1000kg. Also called metric ton. Using metric measurements like tonnes can standardize farm operations and improve trade accuracy.
Agricultural Terms and Helpful Expert Insight
myrmecology: the study of ants. Understanding myrmecology can help farmers manage ant populations and protect their crops, ensuring better productivity.
The technologies and platforms that automate repetitive and manual tasks in food production and distribution, improving efficiency and reducing errors. For example, implementing food product workflow automation systems to enhance productivity and streamline operations.
National Farmers Union: an organization representing the interests of British farmers in negotiations with the government and other agencies. Abbr NFU. The National Farmers’ Union advocates for farmers’ rights and interests, providing a unified voice in policy discussions and negotiations. Membership in the NFU offers farmers access to valuable resources, including legal advice, market information, and training programs. By participating in the NFU, farmers can influence agricultural policies, stay informed about industry trends, and benefit from collective bargaining power, ultimately strengthening their farm businesses.
minimum tillage: a method of ploughing in which disturbance of the soil does not affect the deeper layers. The benefits are conservation of organic matter, leading to a better soil structure and less soil erosion, better soil biodiversity and the use of less energy. The disadvantages include the easier germination of grass seeds. Also called min-till. Understanding minimum tillage can help farmers optimize their soil and crop management practices, ensuring better productivity and sustainability.
brucellosis: A bacterial infection affecting livestock and humans. Vaccinating and managing biosecurity against brucellosis protects herd health and public safety.
The techniques and tools used to gather and analyze information about the food product market, including surveys, focus groups, and competitor analysis. For example, using food product market research methods to identify opportunities and inform product development.
human-caused: Referring to a disaster or event which has been brought about by human beings. Understanding and preventing human-caused disasters supports farm safety and sustainability.
The movement of water and dissolved substances over the soil surface, which can result in soil erosion and nutrient loss. Soil runoff can be influenced by factors such as rainfall, soil texture, and land management practices. For example, implementing erosion control practices to reduce soil runoff and protect soil health and water quality in agricultural landscapes.
Scottish Rural Property and Business Association: A group which represents the interests of Scotlands rural businesses. Abbr SRPBA. Farmers benefit from engaging with SRPBA for support and advocacy in rural business matters.
The feet of cattle, often used in traditional dishes and for making broth. For example, producing beef feet for use in soups and stews.
The voluntary activities and contributions by food production and distribution businesses to support charitable causes and community initiatives, including donations, volunteer programs, and sponsorships. For example, engaging in food product philanthropy to support local non-profits and enhance social impact.
parlour systems: The four basic designs of milking parlours: the herringbone parlour, the abreast parlour, the tandem parlour, and the rotary parlour. Efficient milking systems improve dairy farm productivity and animal welfare.
The commitment of food production and distribution businesses to act responsibly and contribute positively to society, including environmental sustainability, social equity, and ethical behavior. For example, demonstrating food product corporate citizenship through initiatives that support community well-being and environmental protection.
support price: the price at which the EU will buy farm produce which farmers cannot sell, in order to store it. Also called intervention price. Understanding and managing support prices ensures financial stability and market access for farmers, supporting farm profitability.
marsh: an area of permanently wet land and the plants that grow on it. Marshes may be fresh water or salt water and tidal or non-tidal. A marsh usually has a soil base, as opposed to a bog or fen, which is composed of peat. Understanding the role of marshes in the ecosystem can help farmers manage wetland areas on their property, contributing to environmental sustainability.
systematic relating to a system: understanding and managing systematic agricultural practices ensures efficient farm operations and productivity.
stock farming: the rearing of livestock for sale. Properly managing stock farming operations ensures healthy growth and productivity, supporting farm profitability and sustainability.
skim coulter: the part of a plough which turns a small slice off the corner of the furrow about to be turned and throws it into the bottom of the one before. It is attached to the beam behind the disc coulters. Using skim coulters improves soil aeration and preparation, promoting healthy root growth and better crop yields.
The efforts and strategies to minimize waste in food production and distribution, including recycling, repurposing, and reducing excess packaging. For example, implementing food product waste reduction initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
The study of microorganisms in dairy production, including their role in fermentation, spoilage, and food safety. For example, researching dairy microbiology to develop new fermentation techniques and improve product safety.
Envirowise: A government program providing advice to businesses in industry and commerce on improving efficiency in the use of resources and reducing waste. Farmers can benefit from Envirowise by accessing advice on sustainable farming practices and resource management.
doddle: An easy task. Understanding the concept of a doddle can provide valuable insights into simplifying farm tasks and operations. Farmers should identify and implement strategies to make tasks easier and more efficient. Understanding the benefits of simplifying tasks will aid in improving productivity and reducing labor costs.
physical evidence: Any object that can be used to prove a fact, e.g., a plant showing signs of disease. Using physical evidence helps in diagnosing agricultural issues and making informed decisions for farm management.
bactericide: A substance that kills bacteria. Farmers use bactericides to control bacterial infections in plants and animals, ensuring healthier crops and livestock.
record keeping: The act of making records such as a livestock register, which are open to examination by the Government and welfare authorities. Accurate record keeping is essential for farm management, regulatory compliance, and improving operational efficiency.
Fodder Beet: A root crop bred from sugar beet and mangolds, usually grown after cereals and used to feed stock. Properly managing fodder beet production ensures a valuable feed source for livestock.
transpiration: The loss of water from a plant through its stomata. The removal of moisture from the soil by plant roots, which pass the moisture up the stem to the leaves. Understanding transpiration processes can help farmers manage irrigation and optimize water use.
preservative: A substance added to food to preserve it by slowing natural decay caused by microorganisms. Helpful content: Using preservatives can maintain the quality and safety of farm products during storage and transportation. Understanding the appropriate use of preservatives helps farmers meet market standards and consumer preferences.
Channel Island Breeds: The Guernsey and Jersey breeds of dairy cattle. Raising Channel Island breeds provides high-quality milk and contributes to the profitability of dairy operations.
slug pellet: a small hard piece of a mixture containing a substance such as metaldehyde which kills slugs. Slug pellets are usually coloured blue-green. Using slug pellets effectively helps farmers control slug infestations, protecting crops and improving yields.
Food Safety: The issues surrounding the production, handling, storage, and cooking of food that determine whether or not it is safe to eat. Properly managing food safety ensures high-quality food products and protects public health.
whole crops: Crops used for silage which do not need wilting. Growing whole crops can provide a reliable source of silage, improving livestock nutrition.
inbreeding: The process of mating or crossing between closely related individuals, leading to a reduction in variation. Compare outbreeding. Helps farmers manage genetic diversity in livestock.