As scientists continue to explore the wide-ranging effects of heat stress on the health of dairy cattle, a new study by researchers from the University of Florida, published in the September issue of JDS Communications, adds to the growing understanding of the negative influences of heat stress, not just throughout the lifespan but across generations. The study has […] Read more
Heat stress in dairy cows damages health of calves: study
Researchers found that heat stress of pregnant dairy cows reduces fetal growth and influences performance and immune development of the offspring
Modifying MUN testing in dairy cow milk
New calibration for milk can improve accuracy of milk urea nitrogen testin
Present in blood, urine, and milk, the chemical compound urea is the primary form of nitrogen excretion in mammals. Testing for urea levels in dairy cows helps scientists and farmers understand how effectively nitrogen from feed is used in cows’ bodies, with important economic implications for farmers in terms of feed costs, physiological effects for […] Read more
Complex labels decrease dairy product label trust
Consumers may have less trust in food processes that they don’t understand, and animal-based foods may be subject to more uninformed scrutiny than other foods due to consumers’ perception of higher risk. Dairy producers can benefit from understanding how consumers interpret unfamiliar terms and claims on dairy product labels. In a new study appearing in […] Read more
Experts challenge understanding of transition dairy cow health
Science Notes: Conditions previously thought as indicating poor health may actually be normal, advantageous
For dairy cows, the transition period — the time between a cow giving birth and beginning to produce milk — brings the greatest possibility of health problems. The current widespread belief is that the effects of excess nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) in the bloodstream and the ensuing hyperketonemia during this period, coupled with low levels […] Read more
Cyber-Savvy Farmer
