Meet Danika – a symbol of Thai-Danish dairy collaboration

A proud day for Nordic dairy farmers

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.

“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.

Naming contest award ceremony - Red dairy calf Danika

VikingRed – the world’s leading Red dairy breeding program

The VikingRed breeding program brings together three strong dairy breeds: Swedish Red, Finnish Ayrshire, and Danish Red. This unique combination delivers high genetic gain across all economically important traits.

The result of close breeding collaboration in the Nordic countries is a robust, efficient, and long-lasting red cow. VikingRed cattle offer a distinctive mix of characteristics, making them exceptionally well-suited for future dairy production, where climate impact and animal welfare are key priorities.

With large genetic variation, VikingReds are naturally healthy and highly adaptable. They are recognised for producing the highest levels of milk and solids among red dairy breeds.

Medium-sized and energy-efficient, VikingReds produce effectively on roughage and pasture, while also offering increased income from slaughter.

Their adaptability and low-maintenance requirements make them ideal for modern, efficient dairy operations. They require minimal intervention while consistently supporting strong herd performance.

What sets VikingRed apart is its unique combination of health, efficiency, and adaptability traits, which help dairy farmers achieve profitable and sustainable milk and beef production.

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.

Sign up for our Innovative Breeding newsletter

First Name

Last Name

Breed the cows of the future Discover VikingRed