Male calves born to dairy cows are a structural by-product of milk production whose welfare has historically been disregarded, but valorisation strategies are increasingly addressing this neglect.
Dairy bull calves represent a large-scale welfare problem created by the structure of dairy production. In a system optimised to produce female replacement heifers, male calves have historically had negligible economic value and faced disposal at birth or transit through low-welfare veal production. Welfare improvements require valorising these animals through appropriate rearing systems — including rose veal, beef cross programmes, and bobby calf export reform — while ensuring every calf that is born receives adequate colostrum, veterinary care, and a welfare-appropriate life. Changing consumer attitudes towards rose veal and labelling transparency are essential enablers.