The Ferrandaise: the breed in the spotlight at the 2027 Paris International Agricultural Show
Narrowly saved from extinction, the Ferrandaise cattle breed will be the star attraction at the 2027 International Agricultural Show. Native to the mountains of Auvergne, this cow with its unique character embodies a living heritage, a collective achievement, and a solution to the agricultural challenges of tomorrow.
An exemplary comeback
At the beginning of the 20th century, the Ferrandaise thrived in the pastures of Puy-de-Dôme. Its dual-purpose qualities, combining milk and meat production, as well as its draught capabilities, appealed to local farmers. Then agriculture modernised, and the breed gradually lost its appeal: by the end of the 1970s, only 200 females remained, compared with more than 140,000 animals recorded at the start of the century.
Determined to prevent its extinction, a handful of passionate breeders, supported by the French Livestock Institute, joined forces to preserve this unique genetic heritage. Structured around a conservation association from 1978 onwards, this collective effort gradually revived the Auvergne breed. Today, the Ferrandaise counts nearly 4,000 ambassadors across 750 farms in around sixty French departments. Puy-de-Dôme remains its historic stronghold.
Its spotlight at SIA 2027 therefore celebrates more than forty years of commitment to domestic agricultural biodiversity.
A breed adapted to the challenges of tomorrow
Although its value was once called into question, the Ferrandaise has now found its place. Its dual-purpose nature has once again become an asset, while its hardiness responds to the challenges of climate change. Particularly robust, this cow requires limited veterinary care and enjoys a long lifespan. It thrives in extensive grass-based systems that rely on few inputs, making a valuable contribution to landscape maintenance and ecosystem preservation.
The Ferrandaise has everything it takes to appeal not only to farmers, but also to consumers looking for local, sustainable and high-quality products.
A unique visual and flavour signature
No presentation of the Ferrandaise would be complete without mentioning its spectacular variety of coats. Barrée, bregniée or poudrée, it elegantly combines white with red or black. A distinctive palette that is sure to charm visitors at SIA 2027!
But its exceptional character goes far beyond appearance. Feeding on rich and diverse flora, the breed is also widely recognised for the quality of its products:
- its milk is used to produce major PDO cheeses such as Saint-Nectaire and Fourme d’Ambert,
- its tender, marbled meat is increasingly winning over butchers, chefs and discerning consumers.
In 2027, in the stalls and rings of the International Agricultural Show, the Ferrandaise will be more than just a mascot: she will carry a powerful message, one of agriculture that honors its roots, protects biodiversity, and pioneers the models of tomorrow. Stay tuned, the mascot cow and her farmer will be introduced to you very soon !
