Currently used at more than 3,000 farms worldwide, the app allows workers to input information like birth time and weight, vaccinations and more for individual animals. According to Small Business Trends, the app can also be used to track a cow’s due date or even the weight of a beef cow. This allows the app to send text reminders when it’s time for animals to give birth or the best time to sell off cattle.

The app works both on and offline. When a user gets back to a connection, the app will sync all new data. This allows the app to be effective in areas with spotty internet. The app is currently available on Android, but an iOS version will be released later this year.

According to a CNNMoney report, the company’s next step is to make this and other data available to purchasers like McDonald’s and Wal-Mart. Stores will be able to track what the animals were fed, exact breed and health history of the animals, as well as conditions on the operation.

The founders of BovControl say that this will not only allow purchasers to know if a product is organic or grass-fed, but will encourage responsible, ethical and ecological practices as well. It gives producers an incentive when a store can buy only from those who don’t practice deforestation and use fair labor practices. 

BovControl is in advanced talks with the European Union and organizations in Latin America who track environmental and social information. The 2-year-old company expects to release the software later this year.  

—Summarized by Progressive Cattleman staff from cited sources