The purchase price of an identification tag does not reflect its actual cost.
When a tag is lost, the breeder or the relevant organization must identify the animal, order a new tag, arrange for the animal to be restrained again, and verify that the data is consistent.
To evaluate an identification solution, it is therefore essential to examine its retention rate.
What is the retention rate?
The retention rate refers to the proportion of loops that remain properly in place over a given period.
A high rate indicates that the majority of markers are resistant to the stresses encountered during rearing.
This data must always be viewed in context:
- number of animals monitored;
- duration of observation;
- number of farms affected;
- species;
- Terms of Use;
- measurement protocol.
An isolated percentage, without information on the method used, offers little assurance.
Why might the loops get lost?
A loop is subjected to numerous mechanical stresses:
- friction against the barriers;
- passage through the feed racks;
- vegetation;
- crowds;
- accidental traction;
- temperature fluctuations;
- UV-induced aging;
- deformation of the material.
The loss may also be due to improper fitting, an unsuitable clip, or incorrect positioning on the ear.
Product quality and application quality are therefore inseparable.
The Hidden Cost of a Lost Loop
Replacement involves several direct and indirect costs.
The cost of the new landmark
A new buckle must be manufactured, customized, and shipped.
Handling time
The animal must be located, restrained, and positively identified.
The risk of error
The match between the animal and the new number must be verified.
Disruption to Traceability
Incomplete identification can complicate an inspection, a transfer, or an administrative procedure.
The Retailer's Efforts
The supplier or distributor must process the replacement request and assist the customer.
A slightly less expensive loop can therefore end up costing more if it results in greater losses.
What technical factors contribute to good retention?
The material
The polyurethane must retain sufficient flexibility while withstanding tensile stress, UV exposure, and weather conditions.
The locking system
The connection between the male and female parts must allow for easy installation, but make accidental opening difficult.
The Shape of the Loop
A well-designed shape minimizes contact and distributes stress properly.
The tip
The tip should allow for clean and precise application.
Compatibility with the clamp
A special plier ensures that the various parts of the buckle are properly aligned.
How does ARDES evaluate the strength of its loops?
ARDES reports a retention rate of 99.20%, based on a two-year study involving 4,300 ear tags, 4,300 cattle, and 60 farms.
The company also reports a breaking strength of 35.7 daN, measured by CETIM in accordance with ISO 527. Its closure system is based on a harpoon-type fastener designed to require minimal effort during installation while providing high tensile strength.
These measures make it possible to turn a sales promise into a verifiable technical claim.
How do you compare two manufacturers?
A distributor or a livestock organization may request:
- available test results;
- the duration of the field tests;
- the materials used;
- the standards applied;
- installation recommendations;
- compatible accessories;
- replacement procedures;
- Performance by species.
The comparison should focus on the total cost of ownership, not just the price of the loop.
Reliability as a Business Tool
For a distributor, offering a high-retention loop helps reduce replacement requests, boost user satisfaction, and protect its reputation.
For the livestock producer, a reliable ear tag means fewer handling steps and a more stress-free identification process.
For national government agencies and organizations, data retention helps ensure the continuity of the traceability system.
Are you looking for a line of ear tags designed to withstand real-world livestock farming conditions?
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