Dr. Sabahudin Sivro: Farma Euro as A Rising Star in Bosnian Milk Industry

A Veterinary Expert’s Journey with Farma Euro

My name is Dr. Sabahudin Sivro, and as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine with over 15 years of experience, I have dedicated my career to advancing the health, welfare, and productivity of livestock. Over the last few years, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Farma Euro, a progressive agricultural enterprise in Bosnia. My role as an external associate from Veterinarska Stanica Vitez grants me unique insights into the daily operations, strategic decision-making, and long-term vision driving this farm’s remarkable evolution.

In this comprehensive review, I’ll share how Farma Euro has transformed from a modest beef-fattening operation in 2021 to a forward-looking dairy producer by 2022. I will also delve into the rigorous animal welfare standards, the meticulous biosecurity and hygiene measures, the ongoing quality control of milk, and the farm’s innovative plans for future product lines and market expansions. My hope is that by highlighting these efforts, we can bring greater awareness to the successes, challenges, and opportunities facing Bosnia’s dairy industry today.

Establishing the Foundation: From Beef Fattening to High-Quality Dairy

Farma Euro’s story begins in 2021, when the business initially focused on fattening beef cattle. Recognizing emerging market demands, the owners made a strategic pivot to dairy production in 2022. To build a genetically robust and commercially viable dairy herd, they imported 64 pregnant Austrian Simmental heifers and an additional 33 German Simmental heifers. This initial investment yielded a foundational herd of 97 top-tier dairy cows—an ideal starting point for delivering high-quality, nutrient-rich milk.

Current Herd Composition:

• Total Cattle: 190
• Milking Cows: 80
• Dried-Off Cows: 25
• Female Calves (up to 3 months): 33
• Heifers (1–2 years, reproduction-ready): 35
• Male Yearlings (for sale): 17

This carefully managed population ensures a sustainable production cycle, enabling the farm to maintain consistent milk output while planning for future expansions and herd improvements.

The Role of Veterinary Expertise: Building Trust Through Animal Health

My involvement with Farma Euro encompasses a broad range of veterinary responsibilities. This holistic approach to animal health reflects the farm’s unwavering commitment to the principle: a healthy cow is the foundation of superior milk quality. From daily health assessments to strategic breeding recommendations, my veterinary oversight ensures that each animal receives the care and attention it needs to thrive.

Key Veterinary Responsibilities:

1. Health Monitoring & Disease Prevention: Regular check-ups, diagnostic screenings, and prompt treatments help maintain a disease-free environment. Preventive antiparasitic treatments and scheduled vaccinations—such as those for brucellosis, enzootic bovine leukosis, and tuberculosis—minimize health risks and safeguard both animal and public health.
2. Reproductive Planning: Close monitoring of reproductive status ensures optimal breeding cycles, timely inseminations, and healthy calving intervals, directly influencing milk yield and overall herd productivity.
3. Hoof Care & Comfort: Periodic hoof trimming, balanced nutrition, and proper bedding contribute to improved mobility, reduced lameness, and enhanced overall animal comfort—factors that directly correlate with milk yield and quality.
4. Stress Reduction & Welfare: Ensuring low-stress handling, adequate ventilation, proper barn lighting, and free access to clean water and high-quality feed creates an environment where cows can express natural behaviors, remain calm, and produce cleaner, better milk.

Biosafety, Hygiene & Quality Control: Meeting International Standards

Modern consumers demand transparency and safety in the dairy supply chain. At Farma Euro, stringent biosecurity and hygiene measures begin well before milking and extend far beyond the milking parlor.

Biosafety Protocols:

• HACCP Implementation & Halal Certification: By adhering to the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system, Farma Euro systematically identifies, evaluates, and controls potential hazards in the milk production process. The farm proudly holds Halal certification, demonstrating adherence to religious and cultural standards that broaden its market appeal.
• Environmental Sanitation: Disinfection of barns, feeding areas, and storage facilities is performed daily. This rigorous cleaning regimen, combined with effective pest control and proper manure management, contributes to a low pathogen load and improved overall herd health.
• Milking Hygiene: Every aspect of milking is carefully managed: udders are cleansed and disinfected before and after milking, and equipment is thoroughly sanitized. This meticulous approach minimizes the risk of mastitis—a key threat to milk quality and cow well-being.

Quality Assurance & Testing:

• Routine Milk Analysis: Milk samples are regularly tested in collaboration with Veterinarska Stanica Vitez and the INMER DOO Gradačac laboratory. In addition, samples undergo verification twice per month in authorized federal laboratories. These rigorous testing protocols ensure that the milk consistently meets “extra-class” quality standards, as required by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.
• Traceability & Compliance: Detailed record-keeping and traceability systems provide complete transparency. In the event of any irregularities, swift corrective actions can be taken to protect both the consumer and the farm’s reputation.

Future Vision: Value-Added Products, Market Expansion, and Regional Leadership

Farma Euro’s leadership, guided by Agronomist and Coordinator Tahir Kavaz since May 17th, recognizes that long-term competitiveness depends on strategic diversification and value addition. Plans are underway to develop an on-site dairy processing facility, enabling the creation of artisanal cheeses, yogurts, and other high-value dairy products. This move not only increases revenue streams but also strengthens the brand’s identity.

In addition, the farm aims to capitalize on Bosnia’s growing interest in premium, locally sourced natural products. Beyond dairy, there are intentions to explore the production of natural juices, jams, and preserves. Such endeavors not only help stabilize income but also foster rural economic development, offering new employment opportunities and contributing to community well-being. Looking ahead to 2025, the Farm will further refine these strategies, ensuring that innovation and quality remain at the forefront.

Navigating a Challenging Agricultural Environment in Bosnia

Despite its progressive approach, Farma Euro and other Bosnian farms operate within a challenging agricultural environment. Currently, Bosnia can only produce a fraction of its domestic dairy needs, lagging behind neighboring countries. Structural issues—like the absence of a dedicated state-level Ministry of Agriculture—limit access to European funds and hinder the adoption of advanced agrarian policies.

Without robust federal incentives and stable market conditions, the sustainability of these innovative operations is at risk. High feed costs, volatile milk prices, and limited government support create formidable obstacles. Yet, the determination and vision of investors who willingly invest in farms like Farma Euro provide a beacon of hope. Their commitment to elevating standards, encouraging local growth, and seeking foreign markets illustrates the potential for positive change within the country’s dairy sector.

Social Responsibility & Community Engagement

A key component of Farma Euro’s philosophy lies in its commitment to the local community. By employing 16 permanent staff members and collaborating with external experts, the farm stimulates local economic development. Training programs, knowledge-sharing sessions, and veterinary outreach initiatives enhance the skill sets of neighboring farmers, promoting widespread improvements in animal husbandry practices.

As Bosnia strives to align its agricultural policies more closely with European standards, farms like Farma Euro can serve as models of best practices. Greater investment in education, technology transfer, and infrastructure development will not only improve domestic self-sufficiency but also strengthen Bosnia’s competitiveness in regional and global markets.

Conclusion: Leading the Way Towards a Sustainable Dairy Future

In my capacity as an experienced veterinarian, I have witnessed Farma Euro’s tremendous progress—from foundational herd building to rigorous quality control, sustainable diversification, and forward-looking strategic planning. Despite the limitations posed by Bosnia’s challenging market dynamics, the farm’s unwavering commitment to excellence, transparency, and responsible animal care has positioned it as a beacon of modern dairy production.

Farma Euro’s story underlines the importance of veterinary oversight, biosecurity measures, product innovation, and continuous improvement. By investing in high-quality genetic stock, maintaining strict hygiene standards, and cultivating a culture of excellence, this farm leads the way for others seeking to thrive in Bosnia’s dairy landscape.

As we look to the future, more coherent agrarian policies, easier access to European development funds, and stronger incentives from the state can empower farms like Farma Euro to grow further, meet more domestic demand, and even compete internationally. Through perseverance, innovation, and unwavering dedication to animal health and product quality, we can collectively ensure that Bosnia’s dairy industry evolves into a robust, sustainable, and internationally respected sector.