Although yield of milk fat is more responsive to diet changes, nutrition can also influence milk protein yield. Producers should consider altering diets to take advantage of changes in the relative value of milk fat to milk protein.
There is a common business adage that “what gets measured gets managed.” One data point we’re focused on each spring is what to do about decreases in milk component percentages as the days get longer and hotter.
Over the past two months, a number of consultants asked why some of their Holstein herds’ milkfat and protein concentrations are well above historic levels. These herds are located from Michigan to New York and have produced historic butterfat and protein levels, without sacrificing overall milk production.
A cows diet has a large impact on the fat content of milk. “Diet and management risk factors result in a change in rumen microbes that produce fatty acid intermediates.This can account for up to 50% of the reason for the reduction in milk fat."
As the summer approaches so do high temps that can cause heat stress. This can lead to cows producing milk with lower fat content. Here are some tips to help with this issue.
