Real Science Exchange-Dairy

By Balchem Animal Nutrition & HealthScience Life Sciences Natural Sciences

Real Science Exchange-Dairy episodes

October 27 From Data to the Barn: The Application of Nutritional Models
Introductions and Symposium Previews
Dr. Andrew Lapierre shares the nearly 50-year history of CNCPS, and Dr. Jonas de Souza previews his work on fatty acid modeling. Dr. Veridiana Daley reviews milk protein modeling, amino acid nutrition and new technologies that could sharpen decision-making. (00:00 – 10:45)
Models in the Field
The consulting nutritionists explain how they use models' day to day. They discuss how ration software has evolved and why model outputs still need practical farm management and observation behind them. (10:46 – 15:12)
NASEM vs. CNCPS
The panel compares empirical and mechanistic models. Models are the best interpretation of available data, not perfect pictures of biology. That's why it's critical to understand each model's assumptions before acting on its recommendations. (15:13 – 19:25)
Protein and Rumen Degradable Protein Predictions
NASEM and CNCPS often reach different answers because they rely on different assumptions, microbial compositions and prediction methods. Neither is perfect, but both are useful for evaluating amino acid supply and nutrient responses. (19:26 – 24:08)
Modeling the Modern Dairy Cow
Genetic progress has raised production potential, yet many post-absorptive efficiency assumptions still come from older datasets. The panel names nutrient use efficiency and variable animal responses as key areas for future research. (24:09 – 29:46)
Making Practical Ration Changes
Nutritionists use models to guide gradual ration changes within real-world constraints. They also point out that management decisions can affect performance as much as the diet itself. (29:47 – 33:32)
Adding Sensor Data to Models
Rumination, rumen health and other precision dairy sensor data could improve intake predictions, flag health events and support nutritional decisions. (33:33 – 37:43)
Dry Matter Intake and Forage Quality
The panel looks at dry matter intake optimization and forage quality challenges. They also ask whether maximizing intake is always the most profitable strategy. (37:44 – 43:29)
Improving Feed Libraries and Response Models
The group sees room to expand response modeling and improve feed libraries. They also want to better characterize ingredients and add amino acid and fatty acid data, all while validating models against research and field datasets. (43:30 – 58:41)
The Future of Nutritional Modeling
Looking ahead, the panel discusses better fatty acid and amino acid prediction systems, sensor integration, artificial intelligence and stochastic modeling. They also call for stronger collaboration between researchers and field nutritionists, with better data and ongoing validation driving progress. (58:42 – End)
Conclusion
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1 hr 12 min
October 22 Student Showcase: Prenatal Choline Effects on Offspring Mammary Development
Host Scott Sorrell is joined by Dr. Billy Brown (Kansas State University) and Carson Corwin (Kansas State University). The episode centers on Carson Corwin's presentation, "Effect of prenatal rumen-protected choline on dam feeding behavior and offspring mammary development."
Carson Corwin outlines the study design, which evaluated multiparous cows fed a rumen-protected choline supplement during the 21-day prepartum period. Individualized feeding bunks equipped with RFID technology were used to measure intake and feeding behavior, including meal timing, meal intervals, meal size, and number of meals. The team also followed heifer calves and collected mammary ultrasound images on days 1, 42, and 84. (03:15 – 05:43)
Discussing the results, Carson highlights what he describes as the most exciting finding: increased mammary parenchyma area in calves born to supplemented dams. The researchers also observed a tendency for a greater parenchyma-to-fat-pad ratio, which they describe as an indicator of greater mammary system development potential. Dr. Brown explains that the effect was observed across the evaluation period rather than at a single time point and notes an approximately 10% difference in the measured area. (05:44 – 07:49)
Dr. Brown places the findings into the context of earlier research that reported benefits in calf growth, immune responses, and longer-term development. He explains that previous studies and observations have suggested potential downstream production advantages, although some of those observations remain unpublished. The speakers emphasize that the current work is an early step toward understanding possible biological mechanisms and that additional follow-up is needed to determine how these developmental differences may relate to later-life performance. (07:50 – 08:59)
When discussing why prenatal choline exposure might influence calf development, Dr. Brown notes that the mechanism remains a "black box." He says the team's best speculation is that epigenetic factors may be involved, but stresses that researchers have not yet identified a definitive explanation. The conversation also turns to future work, including continued monitoring of the calves and plans to evaluate metabolic factors that could provide further insight into observed responses. (09:00 – 09:41)
Looking ahead, Carson shares plans for a new project evaluating a yeast supplement fed to prepartum cows beginning earlier in the dry period, with a focus on calf immune response and colostrum quality. The episode closes with reflections on future career goals and the researchers' enthusiasm for continuing to investigate how prenatal nutritional interventions may influence calf development. (09:42 – End)
Throughout the episode, the panel reinforces a central message: prenatal nutritional strategies may have effects that extend beyond the dam, but further research is needed to understand the biological mechanisms and long-term implications of those responses.
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16 min
October 20 Nutrient Variation in Feed Delivery and the Impacts on Lactating Cows
The episode begins with introductions from Dr. Addison Carroll and Dr. Kelly Mitchell, who share their educational backgrounds, research experience, and current roles at Washington State University and Elanco Animal Health. They also preview the Tri-State Dairy Nutrition Conference session featuring presentations from Dr. Carroll, Dr. Edward Rico, and Dr. Kelly Nichols. Dr. Carroll's presentation, Nutrient Variation in Feed Delivery and the Impacts on Lactating Dairy Cows, provides the foundation for the conversation, examining how nutrient deviation can influence dairy cow performance and why understanding variation matters for effective feeding management. (00:00 – 03:26)
Nutrient variability can begin long before a dairy ration reaches the cow. Dr. Carroll explains that inconsistencies can originate from feed composition, ration formulation, ingredient loading, feed mixing, and cow behavior. Identifying where variation enters the feeding process, along with its potential economic consequences, can help dairy producers uncover opportunities to improve feed consistency and overall herd management. (03:27 – 05:20)
Breaking the dairy feeding process into four major areas, Dr. Carroll highlights variation associated with ration formulation, feed loading, feed mixing, and animal consumption. Human involvement in loading and mixing can be a significant source of inconsistency, while Dr. Mitchell notes that small variations at individual stages can compound throughout the feeding process. Understanding these sources provides a clearer picture of how the ration formulated by the nutritionist may differ from what ultimately reaches the cow. (05:21 – 08:26)
Drawing on research involving eight dairies ranging from 3,000 to 30,000 head, Dr. Carroll explains that nutrients were overfed 92% of the time, averaging approximately 25 of 28 days per month. However, the magnitude of nutrient deviation varied considerably among farms. These findings reinforce the importance of measuring and evaluating feed and nutrient variation at the individual dairy level rather than assuming every operation experiences the same degree of inconsistency. (08:27 – 10:58)
The conversation then examines the relationship between nutrient variation and dairy cow performance. The research linked greater starch deviation with lower dry matter intake but increased milk yield, while crude protein deviation was associated with increased feed intake. Greater NDF deviation was associated with reduced milk yield, and fat deviation was linked with improved pregnancy rate. Dr. Carroll notes that the relationship between crude protein deviation and reproductive performance deserves additional research. (10:59 – 13:19)
So, how can dairy farms better monitor feeding consistency? Dr. Carroll recommends using feed weights and loading records to establish benchmarks, with variation below 2% as the goal. Regularly reviewing feeding data and monitoring trends can help producers and nutritionists better understand nutrient deviation and identify where improvements may support more consistent dairy cow performance. (13:20 – 15:23)
Importantly, the discussion challenges the idea that all nutrient variation is necessarily negative. Dr. Carroll points to research showing that increases in dietary starch may result in short-term production responses. However, she cautions that the longer-term effects remain less clear, emphasizing the need to consider both immediate and long-term cow responses before adjusting dairy rations. (15:24 – 16:33)
Technology may also play a role in improving dairy feed consistency and precision feeding. Dr. Carroll discusses research evaluating a Vector feeding system, which showed modest improvements in variation for dry matter and ADF. The findings suggest that greater automation could help reduce some sources of feed delivery variation and support more precise nutrient management on dairy farms. (16:34 – 20:55)
Beyond technology, many opportunities for improving dairy feeding management may already exist in the data farms collect every day. Dr. Carroll encourages producers to review feed records, prepare for weather-related changes in dry matter intake, maintain consistent feed availability, and prioritize employee training. Analyzing existing feeding data can help dairy teams identify patterns and make more informed decisions about ration delivery and management. (20:56 – 23:42)
To close the conversation, Dr. Carroll returns to a central theme: nutrient variation does not have to be viewed solely as a problem. While consistency remains an important goal in dairy nutrition, nutrient deviation can also provide an opportunity for producers and nutritionists to examine cow responses, reassess feeding strategies, and better understand what the herd is telling them. Monitoring variation alongside production and reproductive data can provide valuable insight into opportunities for more precise dairy nutrition and feeding management. (23:43 – End)
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26 min
October 13 Concepts and Strategies to Improve Physiological Resilience to Heat Stress in Dairy Cows
The panel features the speakers behind the symposium "Concepts and Strategies to Improve Physiological Resilience to Heat Stress in Dairy Cows": Dr. Yun Jiang (University of Wisconsin-Madison), Dr. Jimena Laporta (University of Wisconsin-Madison), Dr. Vincenzo Lopreiato (University of Messina), and Dr. Maya Zachut (Volcani Institute).
The episode begins with introductions. Dr. Jiang describes her research on stress mitigation and dairy nutrition sustainability, and Dr. Laporta shares her path from the University of Florida to UW. Dr. Lopreiato, based in Sicily, notes he has worked on heat stress for three years. (00:00 – 03:48)
The discussion turns to heat stress as a global issue. Dr. Zachut explains that cows in Israel are now considered heat stressed eight months a year, and that the topic has become relevant even in northern regions. She stresses that even the most advanced cooling systems cannot fully alleviate heat stress, which is why the symposium brings physiology and nutrition together. (03:49 – 09:19)
Dr. Jiang then shares her work on why some cows are naturally more resilient, showing smaller milk drops and less rise in body temperature. Resilient cows produced less methane and had lower inflammation, and she suspects differences in energy metabolism. With 64 cows, she notes the study was too small for genetic analysis. (09:20 – 11:58)
Attention then shifts to the dry cow and the "transition calf." Dr. Laporta explains that heat stress in the first 60 to 90 days of life affects the mammary gland, ovary, thymus, and spleen. Cooling pre-weaned calves improved survival and slightly increased milk production later as cows, an opportunity she calls practical for producers facing replacement shortages. (11:59 – 19:37)
Dr. Zachut next presents a 2x2 study comparing three versus six cooling sessions per day in mid-lactation cows, with or without beta-caryophyllene, a dietary cannabinoid. More cooling improved welfare, behavior, and milk production, but surprisingly had little effect on immune function after an intramammary LPS challenge. The best cooling plus the supplement showed synergistic effects. (19:38 – 26:10)
Dr. Lopreiato then discusses methionine and plant polyphenols, which both activate antioxidant defenses. He notes that even with efficient cooling, milk losses can reach 15%, and he suggests oxidative stress may be a key driver of heat stress damage. (26:11 – 32:18)
Particular emphasis is placed on fine-tuning, not suppressing, the immune response. Dr. Zachut calls cooling by far the strongest tool, but cows cooled three times daily with the supplement had resting times similar to cows cooled six times. The panel also discusses capsaicin-containing extracts, which may increase sweating, while Dr. Lopreiato highlights the importance of rumen protection. (32:19 – 38:47)
The panel also explores immune function in calves. Dr. Laporta explains that heat stress activates the calf's immune system but makes it less effective, with lower neutrophil function and more illness. Dr. Zachut sees young calves as an opportunity to feed polyphenols before the rumen is fully functional. (38:48 – 43:53)
The conversation concludes with key takeaways. Dr. Zachut notes that even the best-cooled farms still see losses in fertility and immune function, while Dr. Jiang asks whether heat-stressed cows have different nutrient requirements. Dr. Laporta emphasizes there is no one solution and that early life matters for building cows resilient to climate change. (43:54 – End)
Throughout the episode, the panel reinforces a central message: cooling remains essential, but it is not enough on its own, and pairing good management with targeted nutrition across every life stage offers the greatest opportunity.
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51 min
October 08 Student Showcase Genetic influence on Colostrum Yield & Composition
The episode opens with introductions. Dr. Santos, who has been at the University of Florida for almost 20 years, explains that Giovanna's undergraduate mentor at the University of São Paulo was his friend from grad school at the University of Arizona. She came to Florida with high recommendations after an externship at the University of Georgia. (00:00 – 03:06)
The discussion then shifts to Giovanna's study design. The data set included over 4,000 animals across 11 experiments and 38 treatments. About 21 phenotypic factors, including calving season, parity, dry period length, calf birth body weight, cow body weight, retained placenta and metritis, were first tested in univariable models. Factors with P ≤ 0.20 moved forward, and those with P ≤ 0.10 were kept in the final models for colostrum yield, fat and IgG. (03:07 – 05:01)
Giovanna then shares the colostrum yield results. Cows produced more colostrum in fall and summer, multiparous cows produced more, and a longer dry period was positively associated with yield. Surprisingly, dry matter, metabolizable protein and net energy intake had no significant association with colostrum yield, and the slope was actually negative. Cows that produced more colostrum also performed better in the first 10 weeks of the next lactation. (05:02 – 06:52)
A key theme of the episode is questioning the common advice to feed more protein before calving when colostrum is poor. Dr. Santos notes that cows eating 800 g of metabolizable protein showed no difference in colostrum yield compared with cows eating 1,400 g. He calls the strong genetic component, with moderate to high heritability, the nicest finding. It suggests cows could potentially be selected for better colostrum yield and composition, possibly as a trait separate from milk yield. (06:53 – 10:11)
The conversation also covers the biology behind colostrum IgG. It's still unknown whether colostrum IgG comes only from maternal blood or also from plasma cells in the mammary gland. Giovanna hopes to use RNA sequencing of the placenta to see whether a missing Fc receptor explains why IgG doesn't cross it. She also plans nutritional experiments to see whether specific nutrients change colostrum IgG. (10:12 – 13:01)
Next, Giovanna shares her plans to pursue a PhD and likely work in industry in the U.S. Dr. Santos points out research gaps, including limited data on immunoglobulin transporters in the ruminant placenta and how colostrum is made in ruminants. Much of that data currently comes from laboratory animals. (13:02 – End)
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17 min
October 06 Impact of Diet and Management on Gastrointestinal Barrier Integrity
Host Scott Sorrell is joined by co-host Dr. Laura Nihus (Balchem), Dr. Bill Weiss, and Steve Massie (Renaissance Nutrition) for a wide-ranging discussion on heat stress, leaky gut biology, transition cow management, inflammation, precision technologies, and the future of dairy cow health monitoring.
The conversation opens with introductions and backgrounds from the panel, highlighting decades of experience in dairy nutrition and physiology before transitioning into Dr. Baumgard’s research focus on stress biology across multiple species. (00:00 – 05:59)
Dr. Baumgard explains how his work evolved from studying heat stress in dairy cows to investigating broader mechanisms of stress physiology. Drawing from military and human medical research, he describes how heat stress can compromise gastrointestinal barrier function and how similar biological responses occur across species. (06:00 – 10:19)
The discussion explores the distinction between short-duration heat exposure used therapeutically, such as sauna treatments, and prolonged heat stress that negatively affects animal health and performance. The panel reviews how different stressors can influence metabolism, gut function, and animal productivity. (10:20 – 12:08)
Attention then shifts to the biological relationship between psychological stress, gut health, and immune activation. Dr. Baumgard describes evolutionary explanations for stress responses, including reduced feed intake, vomiting, diarrhea, and shifts in gastrointestinal function as defense mechanisms against pathogens. (12:09 – 15:52)
The panel examines how stress can alter gut microbial populations, reduce mucin production, increase gut permeability, and potentially promote pathogen growth and shedding. These changes help explain why stress frequently precedes disease challenges in dairy cattle and other species. (15:53 – 18:03)
A major topic throughout the discussion is the distinction between sterile inflammation and pathogenic inflammation. Sterile inflammation is a normal and necessary process associated with events such as calving and tissue remodeling, while pathogenic inflammation arises from infections or disease challenges. The panel discusses why differentiating between these two forms of inflammation is critical for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. (18:04 – 24:37)
The conversation also touches on unexpected findings involving respiratory disease and lung pathology in transition cows. Dr. Baumgard shares observations suggesting that undetected respiratory issues may contribute to health problems more often than previously recognized. (21:03 – 23:21)
The panel then explores the future of precision dairy technologies. Feed intake monitoring systems, rumen boluses, activity collars, milk production records, and emerging predictive technologies may help identify health challenges days before clinical signs become obvious. The group discusses how these tools could transform transition cow management and disease detection. (24:38 – 29:43)
Individual variation among cows becomes another central theme. The speakers discuss why some animals appear more resilient to stress than others, even when exposed to identical environments and management conditions. They consider possible roles for personality traits, behavior, physiology, and individual adaptability. (29:44 – 32:40)
Management practices remain at the core of the conversation. The panel highlights transition cow overcrowding, facility limitations, feeding consistency, cow comfort, and overall farm environment as major contributors to stress and health outcomes. (32:41 – 35:41)
Additional discussion focuses on repeated versus stacked stressors, anti-inflammatory interventions, the role of inflammation in normal biology, and the challenge of balancing beneficial and excessive inflammatory responses. (35:42 – 40:35)
The group also reviews emerging industry tools such as the Fresh Cow Index (FCI) and discusses how milk production may serve as one of the most practical biomarkers of health available to dairy producers today. (40:36 – 43:33)
Throughout the episode, the panel emphasizes a central message: many of the biggest opportunities for improving cow health, resilience, and performance are rooted in management rather than nutrition alone. Reducing avoidable stressors, improving transition cow environments, and leveraging new technologies may ultimately provide the greatest gains in animal health and productivity.
Join nutritionists, researchers, veterinarians, and producers from around the world as they explore the latest science shaping the future of animal agriculture.
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50 min
September 29 Vitamin D Nutrition & Phosphorus in Calcium Homeostasis in Ruminants
The conversation begins with introductions and an overview of Dr. Wilkens' research examining vitamin D biology across ruminants and other livestock species. It is explained that vitamin D should not be viewed solely as a vitamin but rather as the precursor to a highly regulated steroid hormone system with complex feedback mechanisms that influence numerous physiological processes throughout the body. The panel discusses how activation and regulation of vitamin D metabolism affects livestock health and why a deeper understanding of these pathways continues to be important for both researchers and nutritionists (00:00 – 06:59).
Building on that foundation, the discussion explores emerging areas of vitamin D research beyond its traditional role in preventing rickets and supporting skeletal development. Evidence suggesting vitamin D may influence muscle function, recovery, immune responses, and other physiological systems is reviewed. However, the panel also emphasizes that caution should be exercised when interpreting observational studies, since associations do not necessarily establish causation. Consequently, additional controlled research is believed to be necessary before broader conclusions can be drawn (07:00 – 10:33).
Attention then turns to one of the most frequently debated questions in mineral nutrition: what constitutes an optimal vitamin D status in modern dairy cattle. Plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations are discussed as a common biomarker, yet challenges remain when attempting to define ideal target values. Furthermore, differences observed between pasture-raised and indoor-housed animals are examined, illustrating the complexity of developing universal recommendations. As dairy production systems continue to evolve, uncertainty remains regarding the most appropriate vitamin D supplementation strategies for high-producing livestock (10:34 – 16:47).
The relationship between vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin K is subsequently explored. Questions surrounding vitamin K2 supplementation, calcium transport mechanisms, and mineral metabolism are discussed in detail. In addition, species-specific differences are highlighted as an important factor that complicates the development of broad nutritional recommendations across animal populations (16:48 – 18:38).
A major focus of the episode centers on phosphorus management and transition cow health. Dr. Wilkens and the panel discuss phosphorus binders and their potential role in hypocalcemia prevention by influencing calcium homeostasis. The biological mechanisms linking phosphorus restriction and calcium metabolism are examined, while practical questions regarding implementation and effectiveness are also considered. As a result, listeners gain insight into how phosphorus-binding strategies may complement established approaches used to reduce milk fever risk in dairy herds (18:39 – 21:24).
The conversation then shifts toward vitamin D's role in immune function. Research examining the local production of active vitamin D metabolites within immune cells is reviewed, along with evidence suggesting vitamin D status may affect immune responses under specific challenge conditions. While promising findings have been reported, the panel notes that additional work remains necessary to fully understand these relationships and their practical applications in livestock production systems ((21:25 – 23:10).
Vitamin D nutrition in calves and young animals is also discussed. Natural vitamin D concentrations found in colostrum and milk are reviewed alongside supplementation strategies commonly used in milk replacers. However, it is noted that much of the available research focuses primarily on preventing classical deficiency diseases, while comparatively little information exists regarding optimal vitamin D levels for growth, immunity, and overall performance in young animals. Consequently, significant opportunities for future research continue to exist in this area (23:11 – 27:16).
The episode also addresses vitamin D toxicity and excessive supplementation. Toxicity thresholds, elevated circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations, and clinical observations from cattle and camelid species are examined. Furthermore, the panel discusses how different vitamin D metabolites can contribute to both intended physiological responses and unintended consequences when supplementation exceeds biological requirements (27:17 – 35:24).
A detailed conversation follows regarding the practical implementation of phosphorus binders in transition cow programs. Drawing from commercial field experiences, Dr. Schwab shares insights regarding dosage recommendations, monitoring strategies, lessons learned, and the potential risks associated with excessive phosphorus restriction. The panel also discusses how phosphorus binders are currently being utilized in commercial settings and where additional research is still needed to better define best practices (35:25 – 46:25).
The discussion then broadens beyond dairy cattle to examine phosphorus metabolism across species. Emerging concerns related to phosphorus consumption, kidney health, feline nutrition, and species-specific mechanisms of phosphorus absorption and regulation are explored. These comparisons provide valuable perspective on how findings from companion animal and human nutrition research may help guide future investigations in livestock species (46:26 – 50:53).
The episode concludes with reflections from each panelist on the future of vitamin D and mineral nutrition research. The complexity of vitamin D biology is emphasized throughout the discussion, while the need for additional dose-response studies is repeatedly highlighted. Similarly, the value of integrating field observations with mechanistic science is reinforced. Ultimately, continued collaboration among academia, industry, nutritionists, veterinarians, and producers is viewed as essential for advancing nutritional understanding and improving animal health outcomes (50:54 – 56:05).
Continue the Conversation at the Real Science Exchange
As new research continues to emerge in dairy nutrition and transition cow management, the Real Science Exchange podcast remains committed to bringing science-based discussions directly to industry professionals. If this episode was found valuable, it is encouraged to be shared with colleagues, nutritionists, veterinarians, researchers, and producers throughout the dairy industry.
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52 min
September 22 Responses to Amino Acid and Energy Supply in Fresh and High-Producing Cows
Introduction
The episode opens with introductions of Dr. Jonas de Souza, Steve Martin, and Dr. Ben Wenner, who discuss their backgrounds and experiences in dairy nutrition. The panel outlines the key topics shaping modern dairy nutrition, including fresh cow management, nutrient utilization, amino acid balancing, and the industry's growing adoption of response-based nutrition models designed to improve biological and economic outcomes. (00:00 – 03:26)
Fresh Cow Management in the Real World
Drawing on both research and field experience, the panel discusses transition cow management, fresh pen logistics, cow flow, and the operational challenges producers face when trying to maintain intake and health during early lactation. The speakers emphasize that successful fresh cow programs depend on both sound nutrition and consistent management practices. (09:06 – 18:56)
Why Academic Dairy Science Fails in Real-World Operations
One of the most engaging conversations centers on the gap between controlled university research and commercial dairy production. The panel explains how labor, facilities, stocking density, cow comfort, and day-to-day management practices often influence outcomes as much as nutrition itself, reinforcing the need to translate research into practical, farm-ready recommendations. (09:06 – 16:06)
Regional Differences in Dairy Management
The discussion explores how climate, labor availability, facility design, and production systems influence fresh cow performance across different regions. The speakers stress the importance of tailoring nutritional recommendations to each dairy rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. (18:56 – 24:06)
Why Feeding Methionine to Fresh Dairy Cows Is So Complicated
Methionine is one of the most studied amino acids in dairy nutrition, but applying recommendations in fresh cows remains challenging. The panel examines variable dry matter intake, energy balance, and the metabolic demands of early lactation that make amino acid balancing so complex. (16:11 – 24:04)
Energy Supply, Fermentable Starch, and Dietary Fat
Much of the discussion focuses on how energy drives production response. The panel discusses the relationship between fermentable starch, propionate production, nutrient partitioning, and milk production while examining how dietary fat and fatty acid profiles influence feed efficiency and performance. (24:06 – 31:39)
Should You Feed Fat and Fatty Acids to Fresh Cows?
The speakers evaluate the benefits and limitations of supplementing fat during the transition period, discussing how different fatty acid sources can impact energy balance, milk production, and fresh cow performance. (28:17 – 33:59)
Amino Acids for Dairy Cows: Lysine, Methionine, or Histidine?
As amino acid nutrition continues to evolve, the panel explores emerging research on amino acid balancing and discusses the roles of lysine, methionine, and histidine in supporting performance. Dr. de Souza reviews amino acid response models and essential amino acid targets while the panel shares practical perspectives from commercial dairy operations. (35:19 – 43:46)
Response Curves, Digestibility, and Return on Investment
The conversation turns to nonlinear optimization, nutrient digestibility, response curves, and economic returns. The speakers explain how these tools can help nutritionists improve efficiency and profitability while making more informed feeding decisions. (42:07 – 55:14)
The Surprising Truth About Palmitic Acid and Fiber Digestion
The panel explores how fatty acid profiles influence rumen function, fiber digestion, nutrient utilization, and production responses in high-producing dairy cows. The discussion highlights the complexity of balancing energy and fiber utilization while maximizing milk production and feed efficiency. (49:13 – 56:23)
Final Insights and Future Directions
The discussion concludes with insights on body condition scoring, herd monitoring tools, tracer cows, protein sourcing, muscle mobilization, and the future of dairy nutrition. Dr. Jonas de Souza, Steve Martin, and Dr. Ben Wenner emphasize the importance of combining research findings with practical farm experience to maximize cow performance, feed efficiency, and profitability while continuing to refine amino acid and energy nutrition strategies for modern dairy herds. (56:23 – 1:10:04)
Conclusion
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1 hr 12 min
September 15 Feeding for Success: Aligning Dairy Nutrition with Genetic Potential for Milk Fat
Recorded live at the Tri-State Dairy Nutrition Conference, this episode of the Real Science Exchange podcast explores one of the biggest opportunities facing modern dairy producers: unlocking the full genetic potential of today's high-producing cows through nutrition.
The conversation opens with introductions and a discussion of each speaker's background in dairy nutrition, fatty acid research, and commercial consulting. Dr. Bales shares insights from her graduate research on oleic acid and high-oleic soybeans, while Nate Elzinga discusses lessons learned working directly with dairy operations across Michigan. Their combined perspectives set the stage for understanding how science and practical farm management intersect. (00:00 - 05:31)
As the discussion progresses, Dr. Lock explains a critical concept shaping the future of dairy nutrition: genetics establish the ceiling for milk fat production, but nutrition, management, and environment determine whether cows actually reach that ceiling. The panel reviews how genomic selection has dramatically accelerated gains in both milk fat and milk protein output, creating new opportunities for producers who can provide nutritional programs capable of supporting these genetically advanced animals. (05:32 - 08:31)
While new technologies continue to emerge, the speakers repeatedly emphasize that forage quality remains the foundation of milk fat production. Success starts with highly digestible fiber, proper hybrid selection, timely harvest, and preserving forage quality throughout storage and feeding. High-producing cows can only express their genetic potential when the nutritional base of the diet is optimized. The panel discusses how forage management decisions often have a greater impact on long-term performance than any single feed additive or nutritional intervention. (08:32 - 11:03)
The conversation naturally transitions into the role of fatty acid nutrition. Research continues to demonstrate that milk fat responses depend not simply on feeding more fat but on delivering the right fatty acid profile. The group discusses the growing use of palmitic acid, oleic acid, and high-oleic soybeans, highlighting how different fatty acid sources influence milk fat production and overall cow performance. (11:04 - 13:27)
Building on that discussion, Dr. Lock introduces a more advanced framework for evaluating milk fat synthesis. Rather than focusing solely on dietary fat inclusion, he explains the importance of understanding fatty acid requirements on a molar basis. This perspective draws attention to the crucial role of de novo fatty acid synthesis within the mammary gland and reinforces how rumen fiber digestion supplies acetate and butyrate, two key building blocks needed to support increasing milk fat output. The message is clear: healthy rumen function remains essential for maximizing milk components. (12:18 - 16:10)
From there, the discussion shifts to transition cow management and the lasting impact of nutritional interventions during early lactation. The panel reviews research demonstrating that nutrition strategies implemented during the first few weeks after calving can influence milk yield, energy-corrected milk production, body condition, and overall lactation performance long after the treatment period ends. The fresh cow period presents a unique opportunity to establish the trajectory for an entire lactation. (16:11 - 21:41)
Several studies discussed during the episode evaluate combinations of higher metabolizable protein diets, protected amino acids, palmitic acid supplementation, and high-oleic soybeans. Results suggest that strategically combining these nutritional tools during early lactation may create additive responses that improve performance well beyond the immediate treatment window. (19:24 - 23:33)
Despite the strong biological responses observed with many premium nutrition programs, implementation ultimately depends on economics. The speakers discuss how milk prices, feed costs, and return-on-investment considerations influence producer decision-making. Even when nutritional technologies deliver measurable improvements in milk fat production, adoption can be challenging during periods of reduced profitability. (23:34 - 24:29)
As the episode concludes, the panel looks toward emerging opportunities in dairy nutrition, including amino acid balancing beyond lysine and methionine, evolving nutrition models, nutrient interactions between amino acids and fatty acids, and future strategies for optimizing milk components. Continued innovation will be necessary as dairy genetics continue advancing at a remarkable pace. (24:30 - 33:35)
Throughout the discussion, one message remains consistent: maximizing milk fat production requires far more than adding supplemental fat to a ration. Success depends on integrating genetics, forage quality, rumen function, fatty acid nutrition, amino acid balancing, and transition cow management into a comprehensive feeding strategy. When these factors work together, dairy producers can better position their herds to capture the full value of today's remarkable genetic progress.
Join dairy nutritionists, researchers, veterinarians, and producers from around the world as they explore the latest science shaping the future of animal agriculture.
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35 min
September 08 Replacing Soy Protein with DDGS in Dairy Diets
The episode opens with a discussion of the Florida Ruminant Nutrition Conference, one of the dairy industry's leading educational events. Dr. Santos reflects on the conference's growth, its practical focus on dairy nutrition, and the diverse international audience of researchers, nutritionists, and industry professionals it attracts each year. The speakers also discuss the critical role industry partnerships play in advancing applied dairy nutrition research and delivering science-based solutions to producers. (00:00 – 03:30)
Sebastian Salvatierra shares his educational background and his journey into graduate research at the University of Florida. He describes how his passion for dairy nutrition and applied research led him to investigate the use of DDGS as an alternative protein source for lactating dairy cows under the mentorship of Dr. Santos. (03:31 – 06:27)
Why Evaluate DDGS as a Soybean Protein Replacement?
The conversation shifts to the scientific rationale behind the project. The researchers hypothesized that replacing soybean-derived protein with protein supplied by DDGS could maintain dairy cow productivity while potentially reducing methane emissions. The discussion explores how the unsaturated fatty acids found in DDGS may act as hydrogen sinks during rumen fermentation, helping reduce methane production without compromising animal performance. (06:28 – 07:56)
Study Design and Experimental Approach
Sebastian explains the research methodology used to evaluate DDGS inclusion rates in dairy cow diets. The trial included multiple dietary treatments along with extensive measurements of production performance, blood metabolites, rumen fermentation characteristics, nutrient digestibility, and methane emissions. Importantly, the study was designed to reflect practical commercial feeding situations rather than highly controlled laboratory conditions, increasing the relevance of the results to real-world dairy operations. (07:57 – 08:31)
Effects of DDGS on Milk Production and Performance
Results from the study indicated that increasing DDGS inclusion did not negatively affect dry matter intake. While milk production increased modestly as DDGS replaced soybean protein, reductions in milk fat and milk protein concentrations influenced energy-corrected milk production in some treatment groups. The panel discusses possible explanations, including effects on ruminal fiber digestion, fatty acid metabolism, and milk fat synthesis. (08:32 – 09:51)
Growing Importance of DDGS in Global Dairy Nutrition
Dr. Santos provides broader industry context, highlighting the growing availability of DDGS in both the United States and Brazil as ethanol production expands. As a major co-product of the ethanol industry, DDGS continues to gain attention as a cost-effective feed ingredient that can contribute valuable protein, energy, and digestible nutrients to dairy rations. (09:52 – 11:02)
DDGS and Methane Reduction Opportunities
A major focus of the research centers on the relationship between dietary fat, rumen fermentation, and methane emissions. Preliminary findings suggest that moderate inclusion levels of DDGS reduced methane production while maintaining overall animal performance. The researchers also discuss ongoing efforts to evaluate digestible energy, metabolizable energy, and overall production efficiency associated with these dietary substitutions. (11:03 – 13:48)
Amino Acid Balancing and Practical Diet Formulation
The panel explains how the experimental diets were formulated using rumen-protected amino acids, including lysine and methionine, to maintain amino acid supply despite changing protein sources. The discussion emphasizes the importance of formulating diets that mirror practical commercial conditions so researchers can generate results that nutritionists and producers can confidently apply on farm. (13:49 – 15:54)
Understanding Variability in DDGS Quality
Not all DDGS sources are created equal. The speakers discuss how nutrient composition, sulfur concentrations, fatty acid profiles, and protein characteristics can vary considerably depending on ethanol plant processes and grain sources. As a result, ingredient evaluation, laboratory analysis, and quality control remain essential when incorporating DDGS into dairy nutrition programs. (15:55 – 18:26)
Economic and Sustainability Benefits of Feeding DDGS
Beyond nutrition, the researchers discuss the broader sustainability implications of incorporating DDGS into dairy cow diets. By effectively utilizing a major co-product from ethanol production, dairy producers can support circular agriculture systems while potentially reducing feed costs. The panel notes that converting co-products into nutrient-dense foods such as milk represents an efficient use of agricultural resources and contributes to overall feed system sustainability. (18:27 – 22:46)
Digestibility and Protein Utilization Research
Additional research is underway to better understand how DDGS influences protein digestibility, amino acid availability, and nutrient utilization. Because DDGS undergoes heat processing during manufacturing, protein characteristics can differ from other protein sources, potentially affecting utilization efficiency and helping explain some of the production responses observed in this study. (22:47 – 24:01)
Future Research and Industry Collaboration
The episode concludes with Sebastian discussing his future academic goals, including plans to pursue a PhD at the University of Florida. Dr. Santos and Dr. Marinho also highlight the importance of continued collaboration between universities and industry partners to advance dairy nutrition science, improve sustainability, and support the development of practical feeding solutions for dairy producers worldwide. (24:02 – 32:32)
Conclusion
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34 min

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