The food and agriculture minister, Dan Jørgensen, has set aside five million kroner for work associated with the preservation of Denmark's old livestock breeds because of their great value in terms of cultural heritage.
Among the breeds to receive funding are the Black and White Danish Landrace Pig, Red Danish Dairy Cow and the Danish Country Hen.
“The old Danish livestock breeds are an important part of our culture and history,” Jørgensen said in a press release.
“They are animals that have developed in tandem with nature and the farmers who have kept them. We must protect them and, along with Enhedslisten, I’m sending a large pot of money their way so we can continue enjoying these historic animals in the future.”
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Quality genes and food
And it’s not just about historic significance. Denmark’s economy and food production also relies heavily on a number of the livestock breeds.
Jørgensen referred to the animals as being live genetic banks with robust genes that can also be turned into world-class food products.
The funds stem from the government’s agreement with the left-wing Enhedslisten party last year.
