Feedlot operators’ and cow-calf producers’ perspectives on the economic value of health-preconditioned weaner calves in South Africa

Abstract

Health preconditioning programmes have recently gained increased attention in South Africa. Uncertainty remains about whether South African feedlot operators and cow-calf producers perceive health preconditioning as an economic value-added management practice. Results indicated that most feedlot operators were willing to pay average price premiums of R0.58/kg, R0.83/kg and R1.02/kg for a basic, intermediate and comprehensive health preconditioning programme, respectively. Cow-calf producers were willing to accept average price premiums of R0.49/kg, R0.72/kg and R0.83/kg for the programmes. The findings provide information that could contribute to potential market development for health-preconditioned weaners in developing countries and could significantly aid in improving efficiency and herd health within beef industries worldwide.