October 18, 2018

Diamond V at 75 and beyond: Dairy experts on milk fat, immune resiliency

In the concluding episode of Diamond V's "Diamond V at 75: Immune Strength for Life," host Kevin Corizzo reported from the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin, US.

Corizzo interviewed Dr. Bill Stone, Diamond V's ruminant technical services director, on how dairy producers can optimise milk fat, the bright spot in the long-lasting low dairy market.

"There are two big areas that can really influence milk fat," Dr. Stone said. "First, getting as stable a ruminal fermentation as we can, and second, avoiding large amounts of plant oils or polyunsaturated fatty acids in the diet."

Dr. Stone highlighted management and feeding tips to sustain milk fat concentration, including helping rumen microbes fully saturate fatty acids so that they pass out of the rumen in a form that does not impair milk fat synthesis at the udder. He also noted how producers were keeping calves healthy and salmonella under control.

Corizzo also asked Dr. Ilkyu Yoon, director of ruminant research and technical support at Diamond V, about how the cow's immune system affects her productivity.

"A strong immune system is vital to make the cow more resilient to pathogen challenges and protect her from becoming infected and sick," said Dr. Yoon. "However, once the cow is infected, the immune system is activated to clear the inviting pathogens."

Activation of the immune response increases demand for energy and other nutrients even as the cow goes off feed, which reduces milk production.

"By supporting the cow's immune system, we can help the cow sustain good health and productivity," Dr. Yoon added.

Corizzo wrapped up the 75th Anniversary video series with an update on construction of Diamond V's new $30 million South Plant 2, which is scheduled to come online in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, US, in mid-2019.

More than two dozen Diamond V experts from diverse disciplines, participated in the Diamond V at 75 video series, providing insight on the company's wide range of expertise and experience to help customers worldwide. These animal scientists, veterinarians and other professionals provided personal perspectives on Diamond V's discovery and development of unique, natural, microbial fermentation technology.

- Diamond V