Meet Danika – a symbol of Thai-Danish dairy collaboration

VikingGenetics CEO Louise Helmer recently visited Thailand to participate in a special celebration at the Thai-Denmark Dairy Farm in Muak Lek. The celebration marked a proud milestone in Thai-Danish dairy collaboration: the naming of a special red calf, born on June 22, 2025, a symbol of the growing partnership between the two countries in the dairy sector.

The naming ceremony followed a public contest organised by the Embassy of Denmark in Thailand and DPO Thai-Denmark Milk, with Danika selected as the winning name.

Naming contest award ceremony - Red dairy calf Danika

A proud day for Nordic dairy farmers

“Thanks to this special red calf, Danika, VikingRed is re-entering Thailand as part of the Red Cow Diplomacy program. This is a proud day for Nordic dairy farmers,” says Louise Helmer.

“We extend our sincere thanks to the Embassy of Denmark in Thailand and DPO Thai-Denmark Milk for organising a focused naming contest and for their valued collaboration,” she adds.

VikingReds are naturally healthy and adaptable cattle, known for delivering the highest milk and solids production among red dairy breeds.

Their adaptability and low-maintenance nature make them well-suited for efficient, modern dairy operations, requiring minimal intervention while contributing consistently to herd performance.

Discover VikingRed

Thai-Danish dairy collaboration

Denmark and Thailand share a long history of collaboration in dairy production.

The birth of the first calf from a Danish embryo in Thailand marks the return of the VikingRed to Thailand as part of the Red Cow Diplomacy initiative, which aims to strengthen bonds between Nordic and Thai dairy farming.

This milestone showcases the impact of strong public-private partnerships — uniting farmers, government representatives, and industry leaders around a shared goal of innovation and sustainability.

Danika symbolizes the next chapter of Thai-Danish cooperation – rooted in tradition, driven by innovation, and growing a more sustainable dairy future.

The return of the red cow to Southeast Asia

“Red Cow Diplomacy’ captures what VikingGenetics stands for: collaborating to sustainably feed the world’s growing population by breeding healthy, productive cows,” says Louise Helmer.

“It reflects our commitment to fostering connections, endorsing future-friendly practices, and honouring the tenacity of farmers across borders,” she adds.

Discover the story of this special calf and the history of collaboration in dairy production between Thailand and Denmark.

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