The Effect Of Dietary Marine Algae On Production And Composition Of Milk In Lactating Dairy Cows

The objective of this study was to raise the milk performance and increase the concentrations of functional fatty acids(EPA, DHA, CLA) in milk fat by feeding a diet rich in ω- 3 fatty acids from algae to dairy cows. Twelve Holstein lactating cows were used in a replicated 4X4 Latin square design to show the effect on production and composition of milk of (1) control diet, (2) control diet plus 300g/day of marine algae , (3) control diet plus 600g/day of marine algae , and(4) control diet plus 900g/day of marine algae . Feed intake and milk production were recorded daily. Milk samples were obtained each end of the trial for analysis of milk composition and profile of fatty acids. Milk yield and fat percentage of cows fed algae were greater (P<0.05) than from cow fed the control diet(milk yield:15.7kg/d,16.22kg/d,16.78kg/d and 17.07kg/d, respectively); however DMI of cow did not differ (P>0.05). Inclusion of algae in diets increased (p<0.05) concentrations of T3 and T4 in blood serum. Concentrations of I of trace element were greater (p<0.05) in milk from cows fed algae compared to milk from cows fed the control diet. The blood serum fat and milk fat from cows fed algae contained greater (p<0.05) concentrations of ω -3 fatty acids(DHA and EPA) and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) compared to cows fed the control diet. In conclusion, the milk performance and quality of milk fat can be improved through feeding marine algae to cows to provide more favorable fatty acids for consumers.