VIBY-J – In a landmark development, Arla, a prominent dairy company, unveils Arla Iris, a cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) application aimed at providing consumers with real-time insights into animal welfare. This revolutionary AI app represents a significant leap forward in transparency and accountability within the dairy industry.
Arla Iris harnesses AI technology to aggregate comprehensive data on various aspects of animal welfare, including cleanliness, nutrition, and overall health of farm animals. Furthermore, the app offers dynamic updates on the daily routines and activities of the animals, leveraging real-time information collected through innovative means such as AI-powered digital camera prototypes.
Kai Gyllström, CEO of Arla Finland, emphasizes the importance of ensuring transparency and welfare standards in dairy farming, stating, “It is crucial for consumers to have confidence in the living conditions of dairy farm cows and to ensure their well-being. Arla Iris aims to enhance the transparency of the Arla Milk-chain by providing consumers with unprecedented access to the actual conditions of the cows. Additionally, dairy farms can utilize the AI data to optimize their operations.”
The application represents a collaborative effort between technology and agriculture, with farmer Tuomo Mäkinen highlighting its potential impact on dairy farm practices. Mäkinen notes, “We have always prioritized animal welfare on our dairy farms. While the technology does not replace the expertise of welfare specialists and farm staff, it serves as a valuable tool to augment existing practices and foster greater understanding among consumers about the factors influencing cow welfare.”
Arla Iris is set to undergo a pilot phase at Tikka, an organic farm in Kurikka, Finland, where it will monitor Arla’s Single Estate Organic Milk. This initiative underscores Arla Finland’s commitment to leveraging technological innovation to promote transparency, accountability, and ultimately, the well-being of farm animals.
