A Tissue Sampling Unit is a specially designed ear tag that captures a small biopsy sample of ear tissue from the animal during the tagging process. The sample is sealed inside the tag's collection chamber and stored in a dry, contamination-free environment until it's ready to be sent to a laboratory for DNA testing.
In practical terms, a TSU allows you to identify an animal with its NLIS number AND collect a DNA sample in a single application step — no blood draw, no separate trip through the crush, and no additional handling of the animal.
How Does a TSU Work?
The Allflex TSU uses a purpose-built applicator that simultaneously pierces the ear, inserts the tag, and captures a tissue core in the tag's collection chamber. The biopsy process is fast, clean, and minimises animal stress compared to alternative sampling methods.
- Load the TSU tag into the Allflex applicator (A-Tagger or UltraMatic)
- Apply to the animal's ear as you would any standard Allflex tag
- The applicator punches a small ear tissue sample into the sealed collection chamber
- Remove the tag tip (which contains the sealed sample) and store in a 96-well storage rack
- Send the samples to an accredited laboratory for DNA analysis
The tag itself remains in the animal's ear as a permanent NLIS identifier. The sample tip is archived for laboratory processing.
What Can TSU DNA Testing Tell You?
A tissue sample collected via TSU can be used for a wide range of genetic and diagnostic tests, including:
Parentage Verification
In multi-sire breeding programs or when bulls are run with mixed mobs, TSU-based DNA testing can confirm paternity with certainty. Knowing which bull is behind your best performers allows you to make more accurate selection decisions and build a more consistent breeding program.
Genomic Estimated Breeding Values (gEBVs)
TSU samples submitted to accredited labs can be used to generate gEBVs, giving you reliable genetic predictions for traits like growth rate, carcase yield, marbling, fertility, and temperament far earlier than traditional progeny testing would allow.
Disease Testing
Some infectious diseases leave genetic markers that can be detected via tissue sample. DNA-based disease testing via TSU is non-invasive and can be conducted on archived samples even after the animal has left the property.
Breed Composition and Traceability
Breed verification and supply chain authentication programs — particularly those targeting premium markets — increasingly require DNA-based proof of breed composition and individual animal traceability. TSU sampling provides the evidence trail.
When Do You Need a TSU?
TSUs are most commonly used in the following situations:
- Stud and seedstock operations — parentage verification and gEBV generation are standard practice for registered cattle
- Branded beef programs — premium supply chains often require DNA-based proof of identity and breed composition
- Multi-sire breeding programs — where paternity assignment is needed to evaluate sire performance
- Export programs — some overseas buyers require DNA traceability records
- Insurance and theft protection — DNA records provide definitive proof of ownership
- Research programs — university and industry research projects tracking performance genetics
Allflex TSU Products Available at Farm & Acre Co
Allflex TSU Matching Sets
Farm & Acre Co supplies Allflex TSU tags in matched sets — meaning each TSU tag is pre-paired with a matching visual management tag carrying the same identification number. This allows producers to identify the animal visually AND have a DNA sample linked to the same unique ID without any extra administration.
AgVic Matched Management Sets
For Victorian producers, Farm & Acre Co supplies AgVic-compliant matched management sets that meet Agriculture Victoria's tagging requirements for registered cattle operations. Contact us for current availability and ordering procedures.
TSU 96-Well Storage Rack
Organise and store your TSU sample tips efficiently with the Allflex 96-well storage rack. Each rack holds 96 samples in an organised grid format compatible with standard laboratory processing workflows.
Applicators
TSU tags require a compatible Allflex applicator. We stock the A-Tagger V2 and UltraMatic applicators, both of which are compatible with the full Allflex TSU range.
TSU vs Traditional Blood Sampling
Factor
Tissue Sampling Unit (TSU)
Blood / Hair Sample
Collection time
During tagging — no extra step Separate procedure required
Animal handling
Single crush run
Additional crush run needed
Contamination risk
Sealed, dry chamber — very low
Higher — blood/sample degradation risk
DNA yield
High quality, consistent
Varies by collection method
Lab compatibility
96-well rack — lab-ready format
Requires separate processing
Frequently Asked Questions — TSU
Can I use a TSU tag as both an NLIS tag and a DNA sampling device?
Yes — this is exactly what a TSU is designed for. The tag component remains in the ear as a permanent NLIS identifier, while the tissue sample is removed and archived separately.
Do I need special equipment to use TSU tags?
You'll need a compatible Allflex TSU applicator (A-Tagger V2 or UltraMatic). Standard Allflex applicators used for regular NLIS tags are not compatible with TSU tags. Farm & Acre Co supplies both the tags and compatible applicators.
How long can samples be stored before sending to the lab?
Allflex TSU samples stored in the 96-well rack can be kept at room temperature for several months without degradation. For best results, follow your laboratory's specific storage recommendations.
Is TSU sampling painful for the animal?
The tissue biopsy is a very small ear punch similar in size to a standard tag application. Animal welfare studies indicate the process causes minimal discomfort, particularly when a sharp, well-maintained applicator is used.
Related Products:
NLIS cattle tags | Allflex cattle tags | Applicators & Accessories | Battery powered tagger
→ 📞 Bulk pricing and volume quotes: Aaron- 0431 183 421
