Wet weather impact on butterfats a risk to profitability

Lush wet grass containing little fibrous structure following heavy and sustained rains is putting butterfat levels at risk on many dairy units, according to Trident nutritionist Dr Richard Wynn. The situation has been exaggerated by the preceding dry spell, and with large numbers of producers in danger of falling below minimum milk contract requirements, urgent action is needed.

"The first thing to do is to get the overall ration structure right, and many herds could benefit from the inclusion of chopped straw in the buffer feed," suggests Dr Wynn. "This helps to improve rumen function by opening up the ration structure and providing a good 'scratch factor', whilst feeds high in digestible fibre – such as sugar beet feed or soya hulls – will supply the necessary 'building blocks' for milk fat production."

If butterfat production is still too low to meet the minimum threshold on the contract, Dr Wynn recommends seriously considering the use of protected fat products. And in particular, those containing high levels of C16-fats, like Butterfat Extra, will strongly promote milk fat production in the udder.

"When feeding protected fat to boost butterfats, the higher the content of C16-fat, the better, as this is absorbed and used directly in milk fat synthesis. And because any energy supplied as protected fat isn't only used for butterfat production, there's often the bonus of an increase in overall milk yield.

"Just be aware that general purpose protected fats won't be as effective, because they contain much less of the required C16-fat," he adds.

"The cost-effectiveness of fat inclusion is still very good in most cases, despite recent price increases," Dr Wynn concludes. "So for those struggling to meet contract requirements, protected C16-fats should definitely be given serious consideration as part of the ration this summer."