Maintaining genetic diversity in the food system is essential for resilience, sustainability, and long-term food security. Endangered livestock heritage breeds carry unique traits such as disease resistance, climate tolerance, and efficiency in low-input systems that can be lost if they disappear. Actively using these breeds in the food system is critical to their survival, because animals that are economically and culturally valued are more likely to be bred, cared for, and passed on to future generations. Integrating heritage breeds into agriculture not only conserves irreplaceable genetic resources but also strengthens local food systems, preserves agricultural heritage, and increases the adaptability of farming in a changing world.