Milk Fatty Acid Content Research Articles

The effect of fenugreek seed (Trigonella foenum-graecum) supplementation on the performance and milk yield characteristics of dairy goats.

The use of fenugreek seed as a galactagogue has been investigated in ruminants. However, only a few studies have analyzed the effects of fenugreek seed on the milk fatty acid composition. To the authors' best knowledge, none of these studies have investigated the effects of fenugreek seed on milk volatile compounds. The objective of this study, which lasted 8weeks, was to determine the effects of fenugreek seed supplementation on the performance, milk fatty acid profile, and milk volatile profile of goats. A total of 20 Turkish Saanen dairy goats that were mid-lactation were used in the study. This study was carried out with two homogeneous groups: the control group (CON) and fenugreek group (FG). Both groups were fed a total mixed ration (TMR), but the FG treatment had their diet supplemented with 0.1 kg d of fenugreek seed per animal. The feed intake, live weight, milk yield, milk chemical composition, serum cholesterol and triglyceride concentration, milk fatty acid profile, and milk volatile compound profile were determined. The feed intake, live weight gain, and milk yield of the goats did not significantly differ between the CON and FG treatments ( ), whereas the milk fat concentration increased ( ) and the serum cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations decreased ( ) in the FG treatment. The unsaturated fatty acid concentration in milk ( ) was also enhanced in the FG treatment. In addition, the FG treatment increased 2-propanone, 2-butanone, benzene, 1-methyl-3-(1-methylethyl), and eucalyptol concentrations in milk ( ). In conclusion, the supplementation of goats' diets with fenugreek seed during the mid-lactation period did not affect their performance and improved the unsaturated fatty acid profile of their milk. Of particular importance, we have also detected an increase in the 2-propanone concentration in milk following fenugreek supplementation.

Molecular mechanisms in the miR-33a/LPPR4 pathway regulating unsaturated fatty acid synthesis in bovine mammary epithelial cells

The regulatory mechanisms governing metabolism of fatty acids in cow mammary gland are crucial for establishing relationships between milk quality and fatty acid content. Both, microRNAs (miRNAs) and protein-coding genes are important factors involved in the regulation of milk fat synthesis. In this study, high-throughput sequencing of miRNAs and mRNAs in bovine mammary gland tissue was performed during peak lactation (3 samples) and late lactation (3 samples) periods to characterize expression profiles. Differential expression (DE) analyses of miRNA and mRNA and miRNA–mRNA regulatory pathway screening were performed. Two-hundred eighty regulatory miRNA–mRNA pairs were identified, including the miR-33a-lipid phosphate phosphatase-related protein type 4 (LPPR4) pathway. Bioinformatics prediction, dual-luciferase reporter system detection, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting revealed that miR-33a can directly target LPPR4 and inhibit its expression. Experiments also revealed that miR-33a promotes the synthesis of triglycerides and increases the content of unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs). These results indicate that miR-33a via LPPR4 plays an important role in the regulation of milk fat synthesis and UFA levels.

Enrichment of Ewe's Milk with Dietary n-3 Fatty Acids from Palm, Linseed and Algae Oils in Isoenergetic Rations.

Simple SummaryThe aim of this research was to evaluate the effects of three lipid supplements in ovine diets on milk healthy fatty acid composition. Rations provided a source of α-linolenic acid, either protected or unprotected from ruminal biohydrogenation (linseed oil and Ca-salts of linseed oil) or long-chain n-3 fatty acids (algae oil). Algae oil supplementation generated the highest levels of n-3 fatty acids in ewe’s milk. However, dry matter intake, milk yield and fat content declined with the inclusion of algae oil in the diet. The fatty acid profiles of milk from both linseed oil supplemented rations did not significantly differ, and both were effective to diminish saturated fatty acids.Increasing the levels of n-3 fatty acids (FA) in dairy products is an important goal in terms of enhancing the nutritional value of these foods for the consumer. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effects of linseed and algae oil supplements in ovine isoenergetic diets on healthy milk fatty acid composition, mainly n-3. Seventy-two Churra dairy ewes were divided and randomly assigned to four experimental treatments for 6 weeks. The treatments consisted of a TMR (40:60 forage:concentrate ratio) that varied according to the inclusion of different types of fat (23 g/100 g TMR): hydrogenated palm oil (control), linseed oil (LO), calcium soap of linseed oil (CaS-LO) and marine algae oil (AO). The most effective lipid supplement to increase n-3 FA in milk was AO. 22:6 n-3 and total n-3 PUFA content increased from 0.02 and 0.60% (control) to 2.63 and 3.53% (AO), respectively. All diets supplemented with n-3 FA diminished the content of saturated FA in milk and its atherogenic index, while the levels of trans-11 18:1 and cis-9 trans-11 18:2 significantly increased. Overall, the enhancement of n-3 FA in ewe’s milk would be advantageous for the manufacture of nutritionally improved cheeses.

A Mediterranean Meal Plan Modulates Fatty Acid Content of Human Milk in Women With Obesity

ObjectivesHuman milk (HM) fatty acid content is, influenced by both maternal adiposity and diet. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of a Mediterranean meal plan on HM fatty acid content in women with obesity.MethodsIn this pilot study, thirteen women with obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2) enrolled at five months post-partum and were provided a Mediterranean meal plan for four weeks. Nutrition Data System for Research was used to assess participants’ diet during the study. HM was collected at baseline and after the 4-week intervention. Cytokines were measured using multi-spot assays and the fatty acid composition of triglycerides determined using a UHPLC electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Triglycerides containing a particular fatty acid species were normalized to the total abundance of all triglyceride species detected in each sample. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to assess changes in participant diet and HM composition, and repeated measures correlations were used to test associations of paired measures. Summary statistics are presented as mean ± standard deviation.ResultsDuring the intervention, the ratio of the maternal intake of ω6 and ω3 fatty acids (ω6: ω3) significantly decreased (8.86 ± 1.60 vs. 4.63 ± 1.25, P < 0.001) and was positively correlated with HM levels of leptin and tumor necrosis factor-α (r = 0.64, p = 0.024 and r = 0.67, p = 0.017, respectively). Levels of human milk 20:3 (0.588 ± 0.085% vs. 0.483 ± 0.080%, P < 0.001) and 22:4 (0.057 ± 0.012% vs. 0.050 ± 0.011%, p = 0.01) fatty acids were significantly decreased following the intervention. Maternal intake of ω6: ω3 positively correlated with HM 20:3 and 22:4 fatty acid concentrations (r = 0.78, p = 0.001 and r = 0.71, p = 0.005, respectively).ConclusionsA 4-week Mediterranean meal plan modulated the fatty acid content in HM from women with obesity. There was an association between maternal ω6: ω3 intake and HM fatty acid content, supporting a role for maternal diet in modulating HM composition. Future studies are needed to investigate the effect of the intervention on specific fatty acids and whether the observed changes in HM impact infant growth or development.Funding SourcesUSDA ARS #6026–51,000-010–05S and #6026–51,000-012–06S, NIH/NIDDK R01DK107516, Arkansas Children's Research Institute/Arkansas Biosciences Institute GR037121.

Diurnal variation of milk fatty acids in early-lactation Holstein cows with and without hyperketonemia

Estimates of milk constituents by Fourier-transform mid-infrared (FTIR) analysis have been shown to be a useful tool in monitoring energy deficit in early-lactation dairy cows. Our objectives were to describe the diurnal variation in milk fatty acids (FAs) and estimate the association of hyperketonemia with concentrations and diurnal patterns of FTIR estimates of milk FA. Blood samples were collected via jugular catheters bihourly for 5 d from multiparous Holstein cows (n = 28) enrolled between 3 and 9 days in milk. Milk samples were collected thrice daily at 0600, 1400, and 2200 h for d 2, 3, and 4 of the study period. Cows were retrospectively classified as hyperketonemic (HYK; n = 13) or non-HYK (n = 15) based on blood beta-hydroxybutyrate (bBHB) concentrations analyzed during the study period. Cows were classified as HYK if bBHB was ≥ 1.2 mmol/l for ≥ 50% (22/44) of bihourly timepoints; cows were classified as non-HYK if bBHB was ≥ 1.2 mmol/l for < 50% of bihourly timepoints. The HYK cows had bBHB ≥ 1.2 mmol/l for 31.4 ± 6.8 timepoints while the non-HYK cows had bBHB ≥ 1.2 mmol/l for 8.0 ± 3.9 timepoints. We used generalized linear mixed models to analyze concentrations of milk FA over time and differences between HYK groups. The relative percentage of de novo, mixed, and preformed FAs all followed diurnal patterns, however only the yield of preformed FA diurnally cycled, reaching a nadir at 0600 h and peaking at 1400 h. The yield per milking of preformed FA was also greater in the HYK cows than in the non-HYK cows. Oleic acid in milk followed a similar diurnal pattern to the yield of preformed FA, likely driving the cyclical nature of preformed FA. Finally, stearic acid was greater in HYK cows. Our results suggest that FTIR estimates of milk FA offer the potential to provide insight on the energy status of early-lactation cows, and when interested in understanding the absolute concentrations and yields of milk FA, diurnal variation should be considered.

Machine learning methods for the prediction of milk fatty acid content

Random forest, extreme gradient boosting and artificial neural network machine learning methods were used to predict the content of myristic acid (C14:0) and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) based on the milk fatty acids (FA) obtained through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The methods had similar prediction performance for C14:0 (mean average percentage error &lt; 7%). The low prediction accuracy for CLA was probably due to the poor association between the CLA and the input variables. Therefore, machine learning can be used to predict C14:0 and other saturated FA fromed from similar metabolic pathways

Dietary strategies to enrich milk with healthy fatty acids – A review

Abstract Feed is the main factor impacting the composition and quality of milk of dairy animals. Therefore, the present review explores the effects of feed and nutrition on milk fat content and levels of healthy fatty acids (FA) in milk consumed by humans. Milk and dairy products are two main sources of healthy and unhealthy FA in human nutrition. The concentrations of FA in milk depend mainly on diets; therefore, milk FA concentrations and ratios can be greatly altered by some feeding strategies. Dietary supplementation of the diets of dairy livestock with vegetable seeds or oils, microalgae and phytogenic feed additives, and feeding of some grasses can enhance the contents of healthy FA, including n-3 FA, α-linolenic acid, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and, generally, unsaturated FA in milk and dairy products. Enrichment of milk with healthy FA may make milk a source of anticarcinogens (CLA and polyphenols) for human health. This review, therefore, focusses on the current research findings on enrichment of milk with healthy FA and summarizes some effective supplementation strategies to alter milk FA profile.

Comparative Analysis of Fatty Acid Profile and Fat-Soluble Vitamin Content in Sheep and Goat Milk of Organic and Conventional Origin

Consumers tend to perceive organic foods as more nutritious and safer in comparison to conventional, due to the perception that organic food is eco- and animal-friendly. Since fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins in dairy produce are important nutrients, this study aims to assess possible differences in the amount of these components included in organic and conventional ewes and goat raw milk in Greece, while identifying the potential determining factors. A total of 48 samples were collected from organic and conventional sheep and goat farms in Greece (Thessaly) during the lactation period. A standardized questionnaire, including information about the farming system, and a sampling protocol were completed. Samples were studied for the fat-soluble vitamins (all-trans-retinol and α-tocopherol) and the fatty acids profile, while the outcomes were statistically analyzed to explore any associations with the questionnaire data for potential factors affecting the results. According to the obtained results there are slight differences in milk fatty acid content, which indicates that organic and conventional sheep and goat milk in Greece do not have any substantial differences in terms of feeding strategies. Regarding the content of fat-soluble vitamins, the organic milk is generally found to contain a higher amount than the conventional one.

Identification of High and Low Branched-Chain Fatty Acid–Producing Phenotypes in Holstein Cows following High-Forage and Low-Forage Diets in a Crossover Designed Trial

Branched-chain fatty acids (BCFAs) are rumen-derived fatty acids comprising ∼2% of bovine-milk fatty acids. BCFAs possess anti-inflammatory properties and enriching the BCFA content of bovine milk may provide human health benefits. We determined whether forage content impacts the BCFA content of milk from Holstein cows and identified fatty acid phenotypes in high vs. low BCFA-containing milks. Holstein cows (n = 62), fed for 67 d in a crossover design, consumed a diet with high forage and low concentrate (HF:C) and a diet with low forage and high concentrate (LF:C). Milk samples were collected at the end of each treatment period and fatty acid content determined. Paired t-tests, 1-factor ANOVA, sparse partial least-squares discriminant analysis (sPLSDA), and Pearson's correlation analysis were used to analyze the data. The total milk fatty acid concentration for cows fed the HF:C diet was greater than that of cows fed the LF:C diet (4.2 ± 0.7 g/100 mL vs. 3.9 ± 0.9 g/100 mL). sPLSDA demonstrated separation of the dietary treatments, with BCFAs and odd-chain fatty acids as primary determinants. Total BCFA content in milk fat was elevated by HF:C intake compared with LF:C intake (1.80 vs. 1.68%). Quintile separation of high vs. low BCFA milks resulted in 4 groups: HF:C /low BCFAs, HF:C /high BCFAs; LF:C /low BCFAs, and LF:C /high BCFAs. Milks from the high BCFA quintiles had lower palmitic acid content (29.6% vs. 34.4%) but higher oleic acid content than milks from the low BCFA quintiles (19.7% vs. 17.0%). Some cows were identified as high BCFA producers or low BCFA producers regardless of diet. BCFA content of milk is diet-sensitive but variation in responses exists. The potential to produce milk with high BCFA content and lower SFA content needs further study.

Human milk fatty acid composition and its association with maternal blood and adipose tissue fatty acid content in a cohort of women from Europe

PurposeHuman milk (HM) composition is influenced by factors, like maternal diet and body stores, among other factors. For evaluating the influence of maternal fatty acid (FA) status on milk FA composition, the correlation between FA content in HM and in maternal plasma, erythrocytes, and adipose tissue was investigated.Methods223 European women who delivered at term, provided HM samples over first four months of lactation. Venous blood and adipose tissue (only from mothers who consented and underwent a C-section delivery) were sampled at delivery. FAs were assessed in plasma, erythrocytes, adipose tissue, and HM. Evolution of HM FAs over lactation and correlations between FA content in milk and tissues and between mother’s blood and cord blood were established.ResultsDuring lactation, arachidonic acid (ARA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) significantly decreased, while linoleic acid (LA), alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) remained stable. Positive correlations were observed between HM and adipose tissue for palmitic, stearic, oleic, and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Correlations were found between milk and plasma for oleic, LA, ARA, ALA, DHA, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), and PUFAs. No correlation was observed between erythrocytes and HM FAs. LA and ALA were more concentrated in maternal blood than in infant blood, contrary to ARA and DHA, supporting that biomagnification of LCPUFAs may have occurred during pregnancy.ConclusionsThese data show that maternal adipose tissue rather than erythrocytes may serve as reservoir of PUFAs and LCPUFAs for human milk. Plasma also supplies PUFAs and LCPUFAs to maternal milk. If both, adipose tissue and plasma PUFAs, are reflection of dietary intake, it is necessary to provide PUFAs and LCPUFAs during pregnancy or even before conception and lactation to ensure availability for mothers and enough supply for the infant via HM.

Fatty acid composition of drinking cow's milk trade networks of Kyiv

Introduction. There are several important aspects requiring a control of fatty acid composition in drinking milk distributed across the retail stores: milk is one of the main consumer products; fatty acids are the main energy substrates, involved in the synthesis of cellular structural components, whereas their interaction might impact the intensity of body growth and development; the fatty acid composition of milk varies depending on the diet and the animal's specific physiological state; in case of udder diseases, a change milk composition may occur; prevention of product counterfeiting distributed across the retail stores. &#x0D; Material and methods. The present research examined milk samples from five dairy producers that distribute their products across the retailing chains in Kyiv. Milk samples were collected to determine the fatty acid composition. Milk fat was extracted following the Folch method. The milk fatty acid content assessment was carried out by gas chromatography. &#x0D; Results. 20 fatty acids were identified in the tested milk samples. A higher level of saturated fatty acids was recorded in milk from "Ferma" and "Selyanskoye for kids" dairy producers. The highest content of unsaturated fatty acids was registered in products of “Ukrainskoe” and “Molokia” dairy trademarks. &#x0D; Conclusions. The fatty acid composition of the drinking cow’s milk distributed across trading networks in Kiev was found to be heterogeneous, by differing in the content of both long-chain saturated fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids.

Changes in milk ketone and fatty acid concentrations during early lactation in Holstein and Fleckvieh cows

The aim of this study was to compare the changes in milk composition postpartum, especially ketones and milk fatty acids (FAs), in Holstein and Fleckvieh cows kept under identical management conditions. Milk composite samples were collected from 66 cows during afternoon milking, at weekly intervals from one to eight weeks postpartum, and their components were determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The Holstein cows had higher (P &amp;lt; 0.05) concentrations of long-chain FAs (ranging from 6% to 16% in different weeks), monounsaturated FAs (6% to 12%), and C18:1 (5% to 16%), as well as lower (P &amp;lt; 0.05) concentrations of saturated FAs (3% to 8%) and short-chain FAs (7% to 17%) in their milk than the Fleckvieh cows for almost the entire monitored period. These differences can be explained by pronounced lipomobilization, due to a negative energy balance, when mainly long-chain FAs from adipose tissue are incorporated into milk and significantly inhibit the de novo synthesis of FAs in the mammary gland. In conclusion, it can be assumed that breed-related metabolic changes during the first weeks of lactation have a large effect on the milk FA composition. This reflection of the metabolic load changes and lipomobilization in differing milk FA profiles would allow for the use of selected milk FAs to detect energy imbalances and their associated diseases in early lactation cows.

Discrimination between organic and conventional raw and UHT milk by fatty acid profile in Inner Mongolia,China

The fatty acid content of organic and conventional raw and ultra‐high temperature (UHT) milk collected in Inner Mongolia, China was determined by gas chromatography. The results showed seasonal variation of the fatty acid content in milk. The fatty acid content of raw milk was significantly affected by the conventional and organic systems, by which 97.8% of the samples were correctly classified through linear discriminant analysis as from an organic or conventional milking system. A clear difference was observed in the fatty acid profiles of organic and conventional UHT milk of the same brand.

The effect of feeding whole-crop barley or black oat silage in the fatty acid content of milk from cows in small-scale dairy systems in the highlands of Mexico.

Diets have an important effect on the fatty acid (FA) content in milk from dairy cows so that feeding strategies may modify the FA profile. There is little information on the fatty acid contents of whole-crop barley (BLY) and black oat (BKO) silages and on milk from cows fed these silages that are an alternative forage for small-scale dairy systems (SSDS). Given the growing interest in foods with favourable health attributes, the objective was to identify the FA content of milk from dairy cows fed whole-crop BLY and BKO silages in small-scale systems. Three inclusion levels of BLY and BKO silage were assessed in nine lactating cows at pasture for 8h/day and supplemented with 4.6kg/DM/cow/day commercial concentrate. Treatments were BLY: 10kg DM/cow/day BLY silage; BKO: 10kg DM/cow/d BKO silage; and BLY/BKO: 5kg BLY and 5kg DM/cow/d BKO silages (50:50). A 3 × 3 Latin square design repeated three times with nine cows and 14-day periods was utilised. Variables evaluated were the content of fatty acids present in feeds and milk. Contents of linoleic (C18:2n-6) and linolenic (C18:3n-3) acids, as precursors of polyunsaturated fatty acids, were 46 in BLY and 50 BKO g/100g, lower than for multispecies pasture (61g/100g). There were statistical differences in the content of short-chain fatty acids in milk (P < 0.05), being lower for BLY (18.9g/100g) compared with BKO (20.4g/100g) and BLY/BKO (20.6g/100g), the saturated fatty acids and linoleic acid (C18:2n-6c) were higher in BLY/BKO in relation to BLY and BKO. Content of health-promoting polyunsaturated fatty acids in milk was higher in BLY/BKO (P < 0.05). There were no differences (P < 0.05) in the atherogenic index, with values within reports. Small-grain cereal forages may produce milk with a favourable fatty acid content for human health.

Feeding diets varying in starch concentration supplemented with palmitic acid or stearic acid: Effects on performance, milk fatty acid profile, and metabolic parameters of postpartum dairy cows

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of dietary fat supplement rich in palmitic acid or stearic acid on milk yield and composition, fatty acid profile, energy partitioning, and metabolic parameters of dairy cows fed low or high starch diets from d 1 to 28 of the postpartum period. Forty-four multiparous Holstein cows were used in a complete randomized block (based on parity, and previous 305-d milk yield); 2 × 2 arrangement with two dietary starch levels [high starch (HS); 260 g/kg of diet dry matter (DM) versus low starch (LS); 210 g/kg of diet DM] with either palmitic acid (PA) or stearic acid (SA) supplementation at the level of 15 g/kg of diet DM. A basal close-up diet (6.19 MJ/kg of diet DM, NEL; 200 g/kg starch) was fed to animals prior to calving. Regardless of the fatty acid (FA) type, cows fed HS diets had a higher dry matter and NEL intake, milk protein and lactose content, and a more positive energy balance than cows fed LS diets during the postpartum period. Compared with HS diets, LS diets reduced energy toward body reserves and maintenance as a fraction of the NEL intake. Although there was no main effect of PA or SA supplement on intake and energy balance, the effect of fat supplementation depended on dietary starch levels for milk yields and milk energy as a fraction of the NEL intake. Stearic acid increased milk yield in HS diets while PA tended to increase yield in LS diets. Supplementation of PA partitioned less energy toward milk (and more energy for maintenance) in HS diets than LS diets. Moreover, the C16:0 FA concentration in milk fat was higher, and the polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) and C18:1 cis-9 FA were lower in PA supplemented cows fed HS diets but not cows fed LS diets. High starch rations increased de novo FA concentrations in milk and decreased C18:0 and preformed FA concentrations compared with LS diets. Also, HS diets tended to have higher levels of insulin and lower levels of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) than LS diets. In conclusion, the HS diet was more beneficial to improving the energy balance (EB) of dairy cows than LS diets during the early postpartum period. Also, interactions between dietary starch levels and FA supplement for the variables measured in the current study (e.g. milk yield or FA profile) indicate that the response to fat supplements rich in specific FA differed on the basis of dietary starch concentrations.

Fatty acids content in milk of cows under the influence of β-carotene

For the enrichment of milk with vitamin A and β-carotene, vitaton is used, which contains up to 10% of trans-β-carotene, which can be converted into vitamin A, and demonstrate antioxidant, immunostimulating and anticarcinogenic effects in the body. Previous studies have demonstrated that in sanitary terms, the biomass of the fungus Bl. trispora is safe for animals and can be used in animal husbandry to prevent diseases of the mammary gland, and digestive organs, increase reproductive function and obtain healthy viable offspring. The research was conducted on cows of the Ukrainian black-and-white dairy breed in the conditions of LLC “Kuibysheve”, Poltava region. The purpose of the research was to determine the content of fatty acids in milk fat of lactating cows, as with the introduction of vitatons, lipids, higher saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins E and B, which to some extent can affect the processes of synthesis of milk components in the mammary gland. Determination of lipid content and their fractions in milk fat was performed on a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer Agilent Technologies. Established that the introduction of vitaton in the diet for cows increases the fat content in milk by an average of 0.26% and enhances the synthesis of phospholipids in the mammary gland by 1.8 times. The ratio of unsaturated to saturated free fatty acids in the milk fat of cows of the experimental group did not vary from the control, which indicates a positive effect of β-carotene on the intensity of milk fat biosynthesis in the secretory epithelium of the mammary gland of cows. Vitaton stimulated the establishment and inclusion of two unsaturated fatty acids, namely nonadecanoic and α-linolenic acids in the composition of milk fat against the background of the disappearance of the arachidonic acid peak on the chromatogram. It is established that the samples of milk fat from cows of the control group contained arachidonic acid, which was absent in the milk of cows of the experimental group, which is probably due to the inclusion of these higher fatty acids and their isomers, which are part of vitaton, in the composition of milk fat, and the effect of β-carotene on the synthesis of milk lipids. The results of the research are essential for the production of biologically complete milk and its products, which will have antioxidant properties and will be enriched with vitamin A and β-carotene

Milk fatty acids as indicators of negative energy balance of dairy cows in early lactation

Most dairy cows experience negative energy balance (NEB) in early lactation because energy demand for milk synthesis is not met by energy intake. Excessive NEB may lead to metabolic disorders and impaired fertility. To optimize herd management, it is useful to detect cows in NEB in early lactation, but direct calculation of NEB is not feasible in commercial herds. Alternative methods rely on fat-to-protein ratio in milk or on concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) in blood. Here, we considered methods to assess energy balance (EB) of dairy cows based on the fatty acid (FA) composition in milk. Short- and medium-chain FAs (primarily, C14:0) are typically synthesized de novo in the mammary gland and their proportions in milk fat decrease during NEB. Long-chain FAs C18:0 and C18:1 cis-9 are typically released from body fat depots during NEB, and their proportions increase. In this study, these FAs were routinely determined by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) of individual milk samples. We performed an experiment on 85 dairy cows in early lactation, fed the same concentrate ration of up to 5 kg per day and forage ad libitum. Daily milk yield and feed intake were automatically recorded. During lactation weeks 2, 4, and 6 after calving, two milk samples were collected for FTIR spectroscopy, Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning, blood plasma samples were collected Thursday morning. Net energy content in feed and net energy required for maintenance and lactation were estimated to derive EB, which was used to compare alternative indicators of severe NEB. Linear univariate models for EB based on NEFA concentration (deviance explained = 0.13) and other metabolites in blood plasma were outperformed by models based on concentrations of metabolites in milk: fat (0.27), fat-to-protein ratio (0.18), BHB (0.20), and especially C18:0 (0.28) and C18:1 cis-9 (0.39). Analysis of generalized additive models (GAM) revealed that models based on milk variables performed better than those based on blood plasma (deviance explained 0.46 vs. 0.21). C18:0 and C18:1 cis-9 also performed better in severe NEB prediction for EB cut-off values ranging from −50 to 0 MJ NEL/d. Overall, concentrations of C18:0 and C18:1 cis-9 in milk, milk fat, and milk BHB were the best variables for early detection of cows in severe NEB. Thus, milk FA concentrations in whole milk can be useful to identify NEB in early-lactation cows.

Identification of Branched-Chain Fatty Acid Producing Phenotypes in Holstein Cows

Abstract Objectives Branched chain fatty acids (BCFA) are rumen-derived fatty acids comprising about 2% of bovine milk fatty acids. BCFA possess anti-inflammatory properties and enriching the BCFA content of bovine milk may provide human health benefits of milk consumption. In this work, we determined whether high vs low forage diets impact the BCFA content of milk from Holstein cows and identified fatty acid phenotypes in high vs low BCFA-containing milks. Methods In this study, 62 Holstein cows were fed for 70 days, in a cross-over design fashion, either a high forage: concentrate (HF: C) diet or a low forage: concentrate (LF: C) diet. At the end of the 70-day feeding period, cows were switched to the alternate feeding arm. Milk samples were collected prior to the start of the first feeding period and at the end of each treatment period. Milk fatty acid content was determined by fatty acid methyl ester analysis. Paired t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and sparse partial least squares discriminant analysis (sPLSDA) were used to analyze the data. Results The total milk fatty acid concentration at the end of HF: C diet period was greater than that of the LF: C diet (4.2 ± 0.9 g/100 mL vs 3.95 ± 0.9 g/100 mL). sPLSDA demonstrated clear separation of the dietary treatments, with BCFA and odd-chain fatty acids as primary determinants. Total BCFA content was elevated by HF: C intake (1.86 ± 0.13%) vs LF: C intake (1.77 ± 0.14%). Quintile separation of high vs low BCFA milks resulted in 4 groups (n = 12) HF: C/low BCFA, HF: C/high BCFA; LF: C/low BCFA, and LF: C/high BCFA. The total BCFA contents of the low BCFA milks were not different regardless of forage content (1.70 ± 0.06% and 1.61 ± 0.04%) and were lower than the high BFCA milks (2.04 ± 0.11% and 1.98 ± 0.11%). Milks from the high BCFA quintiles had lower saturated fatty acid (SFA) content but higher oleic acid content than milks from the low BCFA quintiles. Of the 62 cows, 5 cows were identified as high BCFA producers and 6 cows as low BCFA producers regardless of the LF: C or HF: C diets. Conclusions The data demonstrate that the BCFA content of milk is diet-sensitive but variation in cow responses suggest factors such as genotype or rumen microbiome composition may play significant roles. The potential to produce milk with high BCFA content and lower SFA content needs further study. Funding Sources USDA-ARS Projects 3062–53000-001–00D, 5090–31000-025–00D, 80–8040-05–01-0000–0000.

Annatto seeds as Antioxidants Source with Linseed Oil for Dairy Cows.

Simple SummaryCurrently, functional foods are gaining widespread attention. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and antioxidant compounds have beneficial effects on health. It is possible to increase the concentration of these compounds in the milk obtained from dairy cows by manipulating their diets, thereby improving milk quality and consequently the health of animals and humans who consume this milk. Annatto seed (Bixa orellana L.) is a source of antioxidants, whereas linseed oil is rich in omega 3 fatty acid. We evaluated the inclusion of annatto seeds and linseed oil in the diets of dairy cows and their effects on dry matter intake (DMI), nutrient digestibility, milk yield, milk composition and antioxidant capacity in milk and blood. There was no effect of treatment on nutrient digestibility and antioxidant capacity, but the addition of annatto seeds decreased DMI and milk production and linseed oil supplementation reduced milk fat content. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of annatto seeds, linseed oil and their combination on DMI, apparent total tract digestibility, antioxidant capacity and milk composition of dairy cows. Four lactating Holstein cows (120 ± 43 days in milk; 15.98 ± 2.02 kg of milk/day, mean ± SD) were allocated in a 4 × 4 Latin square with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement (with or without annatto seeds at 15 g/kg of dry matter (DM); with or without linseed oil at 30 g/kg of DM) and provided four different diets: control (no annatto seeds or linseed oil); annatto seeds (15 g/kg of DM); linseed oil (30 g/kg of DM); and a combination of both annatto seeds and linseed oil. Annatto seeds reduced DM intake, and milk yield, protein and lactose, but increased content of fat, total solids and short chain fatty acid, with no effect on total antioxidant capacity of milk. Linseed oil supplementation decreased medium chain fatty acid proportion and n-6/n-3 ratio, conversely it increased long chain fatty acids and n-3 fatty acid content of milk, ether extract intake and total-tract digestibility. Thus, linseed oil supplementation in dairy cow diets improved the milk FA profile but decreased milk fat concentration, whereas annatto seeds did not influence antioxidant capacity and depressed feed intake and milk yield.

Consequences of herbal mixture supplementation on milk performance, ruminal fermentation, and bacterial diversity in water buffaloes.

This study was aimed to evaluate the potential of a herbal mixture (HM) to improve production performance, rumen fermentation, and milk fatty acid profile in water buffaloes. Sixteen Murrah buffaloes (in four groups) were fed for 10 weeks with the same basal diet supplemented with 0 (control); 20 (HM20), 30 (HM30), and 40 (HM40) g/buffalo per day. The herbal mixture contained an equal quantity of black pepper (fruit), ginger (tubers), cinnamon (bark), peppermint (leaves), ajwain (seeds) and garlic (bulbs). After two weeks of adaptation, daily milk yield, and weekly milk composition were recorded. On the last day of the experiment, rumen contents were collected to determine rumen fermentation parameters and bacterial diversity through 16S rRNA sequencing. Results revealed no effect of treatment on dry matter intake (DMI), rumen fermentation parameters, and daily milk yield. However, milk fat (%) showed a tendency to increase (p = 0.07) in HM20 as compared with the control group. A significant increase in mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids (C14:1, C16:1, C18:2n6 and C18:3) whereas a decrease in saturated fatty acids (C18:0) in milk was observed in HM20 as compared with the control group. No significant change in bacterial diversity parameters (alpha and beta diversity) was observed in response to the treatment. Despite the substantial variation observed in the relative abundance of bacteria among treatment groups, no significant effect of treatment was observed when compared with the control group. Correlation analysis revealed several positive and negative correlations of rumen bacteria with rumen volatile fatty acids (VFA) and milk yield traits. Bacterial genera including Succinivibrionaceae, Butyrivibrio, Pseudobutyrivibrio, and Lachnospiraceae showed a positive correlation with VFA and milk yield traits. Overall, we observed 52 positive and 10 negative correlations of rumen bacteria with milk fatty acid contents. Our study revealed the potential of the herbal mixture at a lower supplemental level (20 g/day) to increase milk fat (%) and unsaturated fatty acid content in buffalo.