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Datamars Tissue Sample Testing FAQs
15
Aug
Aug
All BVD test samples from the Datamars tissue sample tag range previously tested by SAC are now processed by NMR in their extensive Glasgow laboratory. This change will take effect from 25th August 2023 after SAC announced they were no longer testing Datamars tissue tags.
Any BVD tags and SAC tests samples already purchased from Datamars can still be sent to SAC as per the normal process along with original paperwork provided and Datamars will ensure they are delivered without any delay to NMR in Glasgow instead for testing.
All BVD testing undertaken by NMR is carried out by automated processes that open and test these tags minimizing handling ensuring the highest possible test protocols as well as enabling us to control costs as volumes continue to grow.
What if I still have unused BVD tags and SAC tests from Datamars?
Tag calves and send to SAC as per normal and we will ensure they are delivered to NMR in Glasgow instead for prompt testing.
Will there be a delay if using NMR to BVD test instead?
No delays are envisaged as SAC samples received into St. Boswells were forwarded to the SAC Edinburgh laboratory and BVD tested there.
What if I still have Typifix tags previously from Datamars?
NMR or AFBI will continue to provide a BVD test so use the original paperwork provided and sent as previously
Who does Datamars now use for their BVD testing?
From 25th August 2023 Datamars offer BVD test options from NMR based in Glasgow or AFBI in Northern Ireland. We have been using NMR for several months with huge growth in our Z Tag tissue sampling range in particular. AFBI who have been a valued partner for a number of years still continue to test for us also.
Does Datamars still offer Typifix test tags?
No, this brand of test tag is no longer available and have been successfully replaced with the Z Tag tissue sample range for over a year with superior sampling success achieved at a lower cost to the farmer through NMR.
Has there been a price increase with the switch to NMR undertaking BVD testing for Datamars?
No, the BVD test price has actually reduced considerably from the SAC rate and Datamars took the decision to offer the tests at cost price with no mark up whatsoever.
Why have Datamars partnered with NMR?
As we strive to make a measurable difference in the livestock sector partnering with organization’s who offer not only health testing such as BVD eradication but also genomic testing and other herd improvement initiatives that not only make sense but fit with other initiatives and partnerships particularly in the Datamars SMART farming range.
What BVD tag and test options do I have?
BVD testing can be undertaken with Official large Flag Tissue Sample Tag (TST) used in combination with a Secondary tag when tagging from birth. A small Non Official Tissue Tag is also available which can be a ‘third tag’ option. There is also a Tissue Sample Only (TSO) which takes an ear notch without inserting a tag and comes in boxes of 10 with returnable packaging so sample identification is easier without a tag being inserted. Both can be used for retrospectively testing older animals if required.
Who are NMR?
National Milk Records or NMR has a fine pedigree, formed in 1943, NMR works for farmers and milk buyers and is a valued data provider for vets, farm consultants and breed societies and tests 10 million samples of milk annually and a host of other services to help farmers identifying issues that affect herd health and efficiency. This includes BVD testing undertaken in their laboratory in Hillsdown in Glasgow. With automated testing via a 96 x well microtiter plate extraction machine, NMR have additional testing capacity as our volumes grow further. A huge number of samples have already been successfully extracted with a near to 100% opening rates.