Increasing milk yield and less feed loss with innovative feed solutions

Warmer weather is increasingly affecting agricultural production, leading to challenges in maintaining feed quality and efficiency in dairy systems. During hot periods, feed rations for dairy cows can heat up rapidly on the feeding table, causing yeast and mould growth. This reduces feed intake, leads to nutrient loss and increases waste, ultimately impacting animal health and milk production.

Vilofoss has developed the feed solution FreshFoss to address these challenges by stabilising rations and protecting their nutritional value. FreshFoss consists of acid salts in powder form that are mixed into the feed before distribution. The acids inhibit the growth of yeast and mould, reducing the biological activity that causes heating. As a result, the feed remains palatable for longer, retains more nutrients and can be used more efficiently by the animals.

Preventing feed overheating helps reduce nutrient loss in dairy production

The solution is particularly relevant during periods of high temperatures or for feed mixes that are prepared less frequently, such as those used for young animals. By extending the time before heating occurs, FreshFoss supports better feed utilisation and reduces waste.

Field observations from Bulgaria indicate that dairy cows offered FreshFoss-treated rations consumed more dry matter and that ration temperatures remained significantly lower up to eight hours after mixing. Farmers also reported improved average daily milk yield, highlighting the potential benefits of feed stabilisation for productivity and resource efficiency.

FreshFoss demonstrates how targeted feed innovations can support farmers in maintaining production efficiency while minimising nutrient loss and feed waste.