November 2020
We have completed our final review of our Tiny Test Tube project, working with University of Reading, Capillary Film Technology and the National Institute of Animal Biology with funding from Innovate UK.
The project included the detailed development of a prototype field-based Antimicrobial Resistance testing kit and instruction system and the successful delivery of people-centred research activities with vets and microbiologists in India and the UK, all during a global pandemic when we were unable to travel and meet in person.
We developed the project identity through our field research - identifying the importance of ‘guarding’ the farmer’s cows and the quality of their milk through better veterinary care.
We tested the kit in India and the UK and have used this research to not only identify opportunities for product improvements but also the need to develop a product / service system approach that incorporates distribution, support and public health education as well as diagnostics, prescription and anti-microbial surveillance.
We are now working with the team to develop a phase 2 funding proposal that builds on the initial design research and look forward to working more closely with vets, farmers, the biotech industry and policymakers to bring about the revolution in dairy farming that is needed, not just in India, but around the world.