The advantages of embryo transfer
An accelerated rate of genetic improvement compared to artificial insemination. The biggest advantage is that this technology provides the breeder with an opportunity to introduce into his herd more heifers from selected cows that possess prized characteristics.
Absence of health risks during the introduction of new genetics in a herd
It has been scientifically proven that the risk of transmitting infectious diseases through properly-handled embryos is minimal or practically non-existent.
Import or export of bovine genetics. The embryo transfer technology simplifies and greatly reduces the import and export cost of bovine genetics. A complete herd can be transported as embryos in a liquid nitrogen solution for often less than it would cost to transport a single animal.

Canada is always at the cutting edge of new technologies, and embryo transfer technology is associated with embryo sexing. Even when frozen, these embryos retain their high viability. Other technologies, for instance the production of embryos in vitro (IVF), are also available locally. This technology can be used for all kinds of cows, fertile or infertile, as well as for gestating cows and prepubescent heifers. However, the IVF embryos thus obtained, are less successfully frozen than conventionally produced embryos. Freshly collected, they can be sexed and transferred, and will produce a satisfactory rate of gestation.