Evaluating the effect of fermented rapeseed meal on milk production in dairy cows
A cow's ability to express its genetic potential depends directly on feeding quality. Achieving high milk yields and high milk protein and fat content requires a complete, balanced diet that meets modern feeding standards. Even farms producing high-quality feed often face the same challenge: an imbalance in the protein supply of the diet.
Conventional protein sources and their limitations
Conventional protein sources, such as oilseed cakes and meals, contain a high proportion of rumen-degradable protein and relatively little rumen-undegradable protein. This can limit their ability to meet the needs of high-producing cows. As milk production increases, adding more protein can place pressure on the rumen microbiome and reduce protein-use efficiency. Moreover, protein synthesised in the rumen does not provide an optimal balance of essential amino acids.
One solution is to use high-quality bypass protein that passes through the rumen unchanged and is absorbed in the small intestine, supplying the amino acids needed for milk protein synthesis. This is why dairy farms increasingly use alternative feed ingredients to optimise dietary protein supply and improve protein utilisation in ruminants.
One solution is to use high-quality bypass protein that passes through the rumen unchanged and is absorbed in the small intestine, supplying the amino acids needed for milk protein synthesis. This is why dairy farms increasingly use alternative feed ingredients to optimise dietary protein supply and improve protein utilisation in ruminants.
Fermented protein and its effect on milk production
A trial on a farm in the Moscow region evaluated the effects of fermented rapeseed meal on milk production and blood biochemical indicators. Three matched groups of 15 cows in the second stage of the dry period were formed. The control group received only conventional rapeseed meal. In the treatment groups, this was partially or fully replaced with fermented protein, at up to 1.25 kg or 2.5 kg per head per day.
The trial continued until day 90 of lactation. Milk yield, fat and protein content and somatic cell count were recorded, and blood biochemistry was assessed. Diets were adjusted using Canolac, a product based on fermented rapeseed protein.
The trial results showed that:
The trial continued until day 90 of lactation. Milk yield, fat and protein content and somatic cell count were recorded, and blood biochemistry was assessed. Diets were adjusted using Canolac, a product based on fermented rapeseed protein.
The trial results showed that:
- Partial replacement of conventional meal with fermented meal increased total yield of milk standardised to 4% fat by 3.91%, protein yield by 3.21% and daily milk yield by 3.2%.
- The treatment groups had higher milk fat and protein percentages, resulting in greater total yields of milk protein and fat.
- The first treatment group performed best across all measured parameters, supporting the effectiveness of fermented protein.
Blood biochemical indicators
Blood analysis confirmed a positive effect of fermented meal on metabolism and cow health:
Using Canolac concentrate in lactating-cow diets improves protein nutrition and demonstrates the effectiveness of this feed ingredient. It provides an appropriate balance between rumen-degradable and rumen-undegradable protein, supports rumen health and promotes efficient nutrient utilisation. The fermented protein in Canolac improves milk production and blood biochemical indicators and helps animals express their genetic potential. Protein supplements for cattle enable farms to optimise diets and improve economic returns.
- Total protein in the first treatment group was within the normal range, indicating efficient use of protein for milk production.
- Alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase were lower than in the control group, indicating less strain on the liver and kidneys.
- All indicators remained within physiological limits, supporting the safety and effectiveness of the feed additive.
Using Canolac concentrate in lactating-cow diets improves protein nutrition and demonstrates the effectiveness of this feed ingredient. It provides an appropriate balance between rumen-degradable and rumen-undegradable protein, supports rumen health and promotes efficient nutrient utilisation. The fermented protein in Canolac improves milk production and blood biochemical indicators and helps animals express their genetic potential. Protein supplements for cattle enable farms to optimise diets and improve economic returns.
