Use of alfalfa to boost protein autonomy and food security in beef and dairy systems

The 'Luzerne' project (2018–2019) in Saône-et-Loire tested sustainable plant-based protein sources to improve dairy system autonomy and food security. Funded by the EAFRD, it evaluated nine lucerne varieties and seed treatments across 20 hectares of limono-argileux soil. Key activities included compost and fertilizer application, sowing on 11/09/2018, and harvest on 02/05/2019. Results showed significant variability: M9 (Jouflay Drillaud MILKY MAX) achieved the highest protein (154 UFL) and dry matter (23.8%), while M8 (Limagrain MEZZO) had the highest moisture (34.2%) but lowest protein (77 UFL). M1 (RAGT ETINCHELLE SAS GOLD) showed poor nodosity and irregular growth. Soil degradation and heterogeneity limited further trials, highlighting the importance of seed selection and inoculation. The project demonstrated that optimised lucerne cultivation can enhance forage autonomy.