Evaluation of the Equations to Predict Net Energy Requirement for Lactation in the Cattle Feeding System: Based on the Literature Database

Abstract

The net energy requirement for lactation (NEL) equals the milk energy, which is the sum of the energy content from the energy-yielding nutrients in milk. The specific nutrients and their calories, however, vary depending on the feeding system. The objective of this study was to evaluate NEL prediction equations used in cattle feeding systems. A total of 11 equations from 6 feeding systems were assessed. For evaluation, a database was constructed based on the literature, and data for three nutrients (lactose, fat, and protein) were used to evaluate the equations. The equations were classified into three tiers based on the variables: Tier 1 (all three nutrients), Tier 2 (fat and protein), and Tier 3 (fat). NEL predicted by the equations were comparatively evaluated based on a reference value computed using Tyrrell and Reid’s equation. All equations showed high predictivity (in order, Tier 1, 2, and 3). Tier 1 equations showed a nearly perfect fit; however, for accurately predicting NEL, at least Tier 2 equations are recommended. The predictivity of theoretically derived equations was as high, or higher, as the predictivity of empirical equations. Thus, empirical development of an accurate equation to predict NEL, which requires a large amount of data, can be avoided.