Amino acid balancing in dairy feed a growing priority

In the latest survey, conducted this past June, 64% of producers and 84% of nutritionists said they balance rations for amino acids. That is a significant increase from 2010 when 53% of producers and 81% of nutritionists said they balance for amino acids.

 

The 2012 survey, conducted by Dairy Herd Management, drew responses from approximately 800 nutritionists, veterinarians and producers. As part of the survey, people were asked what benefits they receive from balancing amino acids.

 

The responses were different between producers and nutritionists. Producers selected “improved reproduction” and “fewer transition cow problems,” whereas nutritionists were more focused on “increases in milk protein” and “lowering crude protein level in rations.” Both groups ranked “increased milk volume” very high.