IN BRIEF Serving up bite‑sized R&D MLA’s latest e‑newsletter, R&D RoundUp, presents a short, sharp Stay up to date with all the latest look at the latest research and development (R&D) outcomes for red meat R&D by subscribing at: the red meat industry. mla.com.au/rd‑round‑up The monthly e‑newsletter summarises technical projects in an easy to read format, so readers can stay up‑to‑date with new ways to improve business profitability and productivity and then delve deeper into topics which interest them. ■ Here’s a snapshot of some the projects featured in R&D Round‑Up recently: Future farming: MLA is supporting a X marks the spot: Multi‑energy X‑ray program to help producers develop new Absorptiometry (MEXA) technology has entrepreneurial skills to solve critical industry demonstrated the ability to measure shear challenges and advance their businesses. force and intramuscular fat percentage in lamb, which could support implementation of View from above: Research has found cuts‑based MSA grading of lamb carcases. that drones can assist producers to improve land and livestock management A new twist on an old favourite: A new type in northern Australia. of meat pie has been developed for people who have chewing and swallowing difficulties, Lamb survival: MLA has completed a review offering the opportunity to grow red meat of the causes and impacts of difficult births consumption in a niche market. (dystocia) in ewes to inform effective on‑farm management strategies. Read more about Cutting edge: A new spray marking system this research on page 26. aims to simplify automated beef boning and optimise meat yield of cuts. Feedlot health: Research has shown that a remote early disease identification system Food for thought: MLA has partnered with can identify Bovine Respiratory Disease in CSIRO to reduce methane production from feedlot cattle based on their daily behaviours. grainfed cattle by 98% using an alternative diet. Read more about this research on page 32. Stronger links: A scoping study has been Polled test: A new genetic test has been completed to strengthen Indonesian red meat developed which can remove the need for supply chain authenticity and traceability dehorning cattle. systems to address food fraud. R&D Round-Up A summary of MLA’s latest R&D reports Subscribe to mla.com.au/rd-round-up new updates 10