A recent study shows high oleic soybeans can improve milk production by about ten pounds per cow.
Dr. Adam Locke with Michigan State University says cows make milk fat in two ways, with acetate and butyrate and also with pre-formed fatty acids primarily found in the cow’s diet. “If we increase the oleic acid content of fatty acid supplements, if we drop the palmetic, increase oleic acid, we can see some very nice improvements in milk components and milk production, particularly in higher producing cows.”
Locke says the study compared roasted and ground high oleic soybeans and raw ground beans, and there was a clear difference. “We can see some benefits in milk and milk components. Hopefully, it’s quite clear here. I think roasted is the way forward with the high oleic soybeans.”
Locke says the income over feed cost also improved, as the cows produced more and ate 8.8 kilograms less feed per day while actually gaining body weight.
He says other sources of nutrients are also important to get the maximum potential from high oleic soybeans.
EDITOR’S TAKE:
The benefits of high oleic soybeans for humans have been studied and documented in recent years since their introduction. This latest study on how they can improve dairy performance and production is encouraging to say the least. It appears scientists were able to document changes in milk components as well as greater output and lower feed costs. If this continues to prove true it will be another breakthrough for soybeans and dairy. Encouraging results for sure.
This type of research can ultimately lead to greater profitability for dairy producers. They are doing pretty well as it is, but additional income and higher margins would still be a very welcomed outcome. And, always remember when farmers/ranchers are doing well, they reinvest in their operation by purchasing buildings, equipment and trucks - lots of trucks. Be sure to put dairy farmers at the top of your customer prospect list.
