Nowadays the farming is industialized, which makes work much easier for the farmers. They employ the latest agricultural technology, and production is subject to constant and strict quality control. For centuries, the Icelandic farmers have raised both cattle and sheep. Mixed animal husbandry is still the most common form of farming. The increased use of modern technology and changing methods of production have increased specialization, significantly in recent years.
Many farmers now raise only pigs, poultry or horses, or produce eggs exclusively.
A considerable number of farmers are engaged in the growing of vegetable or in greenhouse production. The cool climate has had a formative influence on Icelandic agriculture. For example, farmers need good buildings for livestock over the winter because of the cool weather. An advantage of the Icelandic climate is that the use of insecticides and herbicides is minimal. The cold protects the land against various plant diseases, insects and other pests which plague agriculture in more southern climate.