In this episode of The Dairy Podcast Show, Dr. Johanna Fink-Gremmels, a veterinarian specialized in pharmacology and toxicology, unpacks the complex role of biofilms in dairy cattle health and farm management. She explains how bacterial communities impact antibiotic resistance, chronic infections, and nutrient utilization, offering insight into prevention strategies, such as quorum sensing manipulation. Learn how understanding bacterial communication can optimize herd health and productivity. Listen now on all major platforms!

"The most important nutrient for a cow is water, and biofilms in water systems can severely affect intake and health."

What will you learn: 

• (00:00) Introduction
• (04:28) Understanding biofilms
• (10:20) Antibiotic resistance mechanisms
• (13:20) Biofilms and cow health
• (17:33) Rumen health focus
• (19:56) Quorum sensing explained
• (29:23) Final three questions

Meet the guest:

Dr. Johanna Fink-Gremmels is a veterinarian specialized in pharmacology and toxicology (Dip ECVPT). With over 25 years as a professor and head of department at Utrecht University, her expertise spans antibiotic use, pharmacokinetics, and the toxicity of mycotoxins. Now consulting for the feed and animal health industries, Dr. Fink-Gremmels shares critical insights on biofilms and microbial communication in dairy cattle health.

Connect with our guest on Social Media: LinkedIn