Milk Replacer Research Articles

Effects of liquid-based diets with breweries grains enriched with isolated starch and fish oil on veal quality

Since veal production has declined in the U.S., American veal producers are currently making efforts to implement new production standards to improve product quality and animal welfare. In this study, we hypothesized that diets containing brewery grains, starch and omega-3 fatty acids could lower a blood stress indicator and improve meat quality, mostly from a nutritional value stand point. Holstein bull calves with approximately 94.67 ± 12.07 kg of body weight and two months old were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 dietary treatments. Diets were formulated with nonmedicated milk replacer, microbreweries spent grains, and a mineral mix (CONTROL); CONTROL + isolated maize starch (STARCH); and CONTROL +3% fish oil (OMEGA-3). Veal calves fed all three diets were heavier than calves of the same age from experiments reported in the existing literature. Dietary treatments did not affect carcass weights, pH, color, moisture, sensory attributes, volatile profile, and fat quality indexes. Calves fed STARCH and OMEGA-3 showed the lowest levels of blood cortisol. Veal fed CONTROL and OMEGA-3 had higher concentrations of ΣMUFA when compared with STARCH. Veal fed OMEGA-3 had the highest concentrations of EPA, DHA, and Σn-3. Veal from all treatments had very high concentrations of ΣMUFA, mostly driven by high levels of c-9 18:1 n-9 from the milk replacer. Feeding OMEGA-3 lowered blood cortisol and increased levels of EPA and DHA without harming sensory attributes. Overall, including brewery grains, starch and fish oil in liquid diets containing milk replacer can improve veal production.

Serum lipidomic profiling of dairy calves fed milk replacers containing animal or vegetable fats

Vegetable fat blends are commonly used as fat sources in milk replacers (MR) for calves, but their composition differs considerably from that of bovine milk fat. The aim of this study was to investigate the serum lipid profile of pre-weaned calves fed twice-daily MR containing 30% fat (% DM). Upon arrival, 30 male Holstein-Friesian calves (BW = 45.6 ± 4.0 kg, age = 2.29 ± 0.8 d) were randomly assigned to 2 experimental diets (n = 15 per treatment): one MR was derived from either vegetable fats (VG; 80% rapeseed and 20% coconut fats) or animal fats (AN; 65% Packer's lard and 35% dairy cream). The 2 MR formulas contained 30% fat, 24% CP, and 36% lactose. Calves were housed indoors in individual pens with ad libitum access to chopped straw and water. Daily milk allowances were 6.0 L from d 1 to 5, 7.0 L from d 6 to 9, and 8.0 L from d 10 to 35, divided into 2 equal meals and prepared at 13.5% solids. An untargeted liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-QTOF-MS) method was employed to analyze the lipid profiles in the serum of calves sampled from the jugular vein at 35 d of age. In total, 594 lipids were characterized, comprising 25 different lipid classes. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed significant separation between VG and AN, indicating different lipid profiles in the serum. An orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) classification model was used to further validate the distinction between the 2 treatment groups. The model exhibited a robust class separation and high predictive accuracy. Using a Volcano plot (fold change threshold ≥1.5 and false discovery rate ≤0.05), it was observed that calves fed AN had higher levels of 39 lipid species in serum than calves fed VG, whereas 171 lipid species were lower in the AN group. Lipid classes, such as phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), sphingomyelin (SM), triglycerides (TG), lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), and lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE), were different. In particular, PC and PE were observed at lower levels in calves fed AN, possibly indicating shifts in cell membrane characteristics, intracellular signaling, and liver functions. In addition, a decrease in certain triglyceride (TG) species was observed in calves fed AN, including a decrease in TG species such as TG 36:0 and TG 38:0, possibly related to variations in the content of certain fatty acids (FA) within the AN MR, such as C10:0, C12:0, C14:0, and C18:0 compared with the VG MR. Calves fed AN had lower levels of LPC and LPE, and lyso-phosphatidylinositol (LPI), SM, and phosphatidylinositol (PI) species than calves fed VG, suggesting shifts in lipoprotein and lipid metabolic pathways. In conclusion, these results deepen the understanding of how lipid sources in MR can modulate the serum lipidome profiles of dairy calves.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of an essential oil obtained from the fruit of Carum carvi L. (caraway oil) for all animal species (FEFANA asbl).

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of an essential oil obtained from the fruit of Carum carvi L. (caraway oil), when used as a sensory additive in feed and water for drinking for all animal species. The EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) Panel concluded that the use of caraway oil is of no concern up to the following concentrations in complete feed: 9 mg/kg for chickens for fattening, 13 mg/kg for laying hens, 12 mg/kg for turkeys for fattening, 16 mg/kg for piglets, 19 mg/kg for pigs for fattening, 24 mg/kg for sows, 35 mg/kg for veal calves (milk replacer), 11 mg/kg for cattle for fattening, 10 mg/kg for dairy cows, sheep, goats, horses and rabbits, 25 mg/kg for salmonids and dogs. These conclusions were extrapolated to other physiologically related species. For cats, ornamental fish and other species, no conclusion can be drawn. The use of caraway oil in animal feed under the proposed conditions of use is safe for the consumer and the environment. The additive under assessment should be considered as an irritant to skin and eyes, and as a respiratory and skin sensitiser. When handling the essential oil, exposure of unprotected users to perillaldehyde may occur. Therefore, to reduce the risk, the exposure of the users should be minimised. Since C. carvi and its preparations were recognised to flavour food and its function in feed would be essentially the same as that in food, no further demonstration of efficacy was considered necessary.

Safety and efficacy of a feed additive consisting of an essential oil obtained from the fruit of Apium graveolens L. (celery seed oil) for all animal species (FEFANA asbl).

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of an essential oil obtained from the fruit of Apium graveolens L. (celery seed oil), when used as a sensory additive in feed and water for drinking for all animal species. The EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) Panel concluded that the use of celery seed oil is of no concern up to the following concentrations in complete feed: 1.6 mg/kg for chickens for fattening, 2.3 mg/kg for laying hens, 2.1 mg/kg for turkeys for fattening, 2.8 mg/kg for piglets, 3.3 mg/kg for pigs for fattening, 4.1 mg/kg for sows, 6.5 mg/kg for veal calves (milk replacer), 6.2 mg/kg for cattle for fattening, sheep, goats and horses, 4.0 mg/kg for dairy cows, 2.5 mg/kg for rabbits, 6.8 mg/kg for salmonids and 7.2 mg/kg for dogs. These conclusions were extrapolated to other physiologically related species. For cats, ornamental fish and other species, no conclusion can be drawn. The use of celery seed oil in animals feed is not expected to pose concern for the consumers and for the environment. The additive under assessment should be considered as an irritant to skin and eyes, and as a respiratory and skin sensitiser. When handling the essential oil, exposure of unprotected users to perillaldehyde and bergapten may occur. Therefore, to reduce the risk, the exposure of the users should be minimised. Since A. graveolens and its preparations were recognised to flavour food and its function in feed would be essentially the same as that in food, no further demonstration of efficacy was considered necessary.

A randomized controlled trial evaluating the effect of providing a rest period during long-distance transportation of surplus dairy calves: Part I. Effect on health, growth, and activity

The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to determine whether providing a rest period to surplus calves transported for 16 h reduced the effect of long-distance transportation on health, growth, and activity after arrival to a calf-raising facility. Between September 2022 to January 2023, 6- to 24-d-old surplus calves were randomly assigned to one of 2 treatment groups: (1) continuous transportation by road for 16 h (n = 86) or (2) 8 h of transport, an 8 h rest period, then a further 8 h of transport to a single commercial calf-raising facility in Ontario, Canada (n = 84). Calves that received the rest period were fed 2 L of milk replacer at the time of unloading for the rest period and again before reloading for the second leg of transportation. Calves were weighed before and after transportation and once weekly until they left the calf-raising facility at 11 wk after arrival. Additionally, fecal consistency and respiratory health were assessed immediately before and after transportation, as well as twice daily following arrival. The odds of abnormal fecal and respiratory scores were assessed with mixed effects logistic regression models, whereas Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the hazard of treatment for diarrhea and respiratory disease. To evaluate weight loss during transportation, ADG, lying bouts, and steps, mixed linear regression models were used. Furthermore, mixed logistic regression models with repeated measures were built to assess associations with the odds of having a sunken flank and prolonged skin tent. There were no statistical differences in the odds of abnormal fecal or respiratory scores or the treatment for diarrhea between treatment groups; however, there was evidence that calves that received a rest period had a higher hazard of treatment for respiratory disease. Calves >10 d old had reduced odds of having an abnormal respiratory score and calves 13 to 24 d old had lower odds of arriving with a prolonged skin tent, lower odds of abnormal fecal score, and reduced hazard of treatment for diarrhea compared with calves that were 6 to 8 d old at transportation. During transportation, calves that received a rest period lost less weight than continuously transported calves. With respect to ADG over the 77-d study, an interaction between age at transport and treatment group was identified where calves aged 9 to 10 d old and receiving a rest period had higher ADG compared with calves that were 9 to 10 d old and not receiving a rest period. As for calf activity, calves receiving an rest period spent more time lying on the day after transportation compared with calves that were continuously transported. The results of this trial show few differences in the health and growth of calves having a rest period compared with those that underwent continuous transport. Furthermore, calves receiving a rest period may arrive more fatigued than calves that arrive at their destination in a shorter period of time overall. Transporting calves at older ages presents an opportunity to reduce the effect of long-distance transportation on subsequent health, growth, and activity.

A randomized controlled trial evaluating the effect of providing a rest period during long-distance transportation of surplus dairy calves: Part II. Effect on hematological variables

The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to determine if providing a rest stop including provision of feed and water between periods of continuous transportation mitigates the effect of long-distance transportation on markers of energy status and hydration in calves transported by road for 16 h. This study was conducted between September 2022 to January 2023 and included male and female Holstein and crossbred dairy calves ≥7 d old from 2 commercial dairy farms in Ontario, Canada (n = 96). On the day before transportation, calves were enrolled and randomly assigned to one of 2 treatment groups: (1) continuous transportation by road for 16 h or (2) 8 h of transport, 8 h of rest, and a further 8 h of transport to a single calf-raising facility. Calves that received a rest stop were fed 2 L of milk replacer at the time of unloading for the rest period and again immediately before reloading for the second leg of the journey. Blood samples were collected before and after transportation as well as daily for 3 d following arrival to the calf-raising facility. Serum was analyzed for concentrations of BHB, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), haptoglobin, and creatine kinase, and acid-base disturbances were evaluated within 1 h of collection of whole blood to assess glucose, sodium, potassium, ionized calcium, hematocrit, hemoglobin, pH, base excess, partial pressure of oxygen, total carbon dioxide, bicarbonate, partial pressure of carbon dioxide, and oxygen saturation. Mixed linear regression models with repeated measures were built to assess the effect of treatment group, age at transportation, breed, and sex on these parameters. Immediately after transportation, calves that received the rest period had lower BHB (-68.04 μmol/L, 95% CI: -99.59 to -36.49), NEFA (-0.14 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.22 to -0.07), and sodium (-1.10 mmol/L, 95% CI = -2.18 to -0.02), and higher glucose (0.48 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.21 to 0.74), potassium (0.27 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.11 to 0.43), ionized calcium (0.06 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.03 to 0.08), and oxygen saturation (8.76%, 95% CI = 1.61 to 15.91) compared with calves that were continuously transported for 16 h. Additionally, calves transported between 11 and 12 d old had lower hematocrit (-1.22%, 95% CI = -2.19 to -0.25), hemoglobin (-3.07 g/L, 95% CI = -5.70 to -0.43), haptoglobin (-0.13 g/L, 95% CI = -0.23 to -0.02), and potassium (-0.13 mmol/L, 95% CI = -0.22 to -0.04) and higher sodium (0.83 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.03 to 1.63) than 7 to 8 d old calves. Furthermore, calves that were 13 to 24 d old at transport had lower haptoglobin (-0.16 g/L, 95% CI = -0.27 to -0.06) and potassium (-0.14 mmol/L, 95% CI = -0.23 to -0.05), and higher sodium (1.02 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.22 to 1.82) and ionized calcium (0.02 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.002 to 0.035) compared with calves transported at 7 to 8 d old. The results of this trial demonstrate that a rest period improves energy status upon arrival to a calf-raising facility, suggesting that the benefit of a rest period may be mostly related to the provision of mid-journey milk meals.

Fortification of Pea and Potato Protein Isolates in Oat-Based Milk Alternatives; Effects on the Sensory and Volatile Profile.

Oat-based milk alternatives (OMAs) are an important alternative to bovine milk, with prevalence of lactose intolerance, as well as soy and nut allergies limiting consumers options. However, OMAs are typically lower in protein content than both bovine milk and soy-based alternatives, with protein quality limited by low lysine levels, which can reduce protein digestibility. Addition of alternative plant proteins may increase the quantity of protein, as well as balancing the amino acid profile. However, plant-based proteins have additional sensory qualities and off-flavours, which may lead to undesirable characteristics when introduced to OMAs. This study aimed to assess the effect of pea and potato protein addition on the sensory profile, volatile profile, colour, and particle size in an OMA control product. Results demonstrated that pea protein contributed to a bitter and metallic taste, astringent aftertaste, and a significantly increased overall aroma correlated with higher levels of key volatiles. Whilst potato protein resulted in less flavour changes, it did lead to increased powdery mouthfeel and mouthcoating supported by a substantially increased particle size. Both protein fortifications led to detectable colour changes and a staler flavour. Fortification of OMA product with the pea protein led to significant sensory, volatile and physical changes, whilst the potato protein led to predominantly physical changes. Further investigation into alternative plant-based proteins is necessary to optimise sensory qualities whilst increasing protein content and the amino acid profile.

A comparative nutritional life cycle assessment of processed and unprocessed soy-based meat and milk alternatives including protein quality adjustment

Efforts towards sustainable food systems have stimulated the development of plant-based alternatives to meat and milk. However, the debate on the nutritional quality of (processed) plant products compared to animal products remains unresolved, and combined assessments are needed to assess the benefits and trade-offs of these products in future diets. Using life cycle assessment (LCA) combined with nutrient density measurements and the Digestible Indispensable Amino Acid Score (DIAAS), this case study evaluates different processing stages of soy-based products, including cooked soybeans, tofu, soy drink, and a processed soy-based meat analogue (SBMA) produced in Switzerland. The nutritional LCA (n-LCA) showed that the environmental impact of all soy-based meat alternatives was 4–20 times lower than that of beef, especially when locally sourced soy was used. The differences were smaller when compared to chicken meat. All soy-based products showed lower DIAAS compared to animal products, but the results from the combined n-LCA were always less favourable for animal products in this case study. Contribution analyses showed that despite the high level of processing, the raw materials contributed significantly to the environmental footprint of SBMA, exceeding 50% in some environmental impact categories. Moreover, comparisons within the soy-based alternatives revealed a lower environmental impact of the minimally processed products. The higher protein quality and quantity of the processed SBMA were not sufficient to offset its higher environmental impact in this case study. SBMA also contained highest level of sodium and saturated fatty acids, highlighting the need for careful food formulation. Overall, this study showed the potential of soy-based alternatives to meat and milk to reduce the environmental impact of food production whilst highlighting the importance of considering their nutritional quality and the role of processing. Overall, this research provides insight into the potential of plant-based alternatives to meat and milk for sustainable diets amid the global challenge of climate change and changing dietary patterns.

Transition milk or milk replacer powder as waste milk supplements to cold-stressed neonatal Holstein dairy calves: Effects on performance, feeding behavior, and health.

Young calves are more susceptible to cold than older animals due to their limited ability to regulate body temperature and lack of fat reserves and may have difficulty consuming the energy needed to cope with the cold by maintaining body temperature and meeting their metabolic needs, especially when fed constant levels of waste milk (WM) with less solids, which can be detrimental to health and future performance. An alternative to overcome this problem is increasing the milk's solids content to the existing volume by using different sources [milk replacer powder (MR) or transition milk (TM)]. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effects of increasing the total solids of WM via MR (WM+MR) or TM (WM+TM) on the performance, feeding behavior, and health-related variables of cold-stressed dairy calves during pre- and post-weaning. We hypothesized that feeding WM supplemented with MR or TM as potential liquid feed enhancers would improve milk dry matter and energy intake of the calves with a positive impact on body development and have no negative impact on feeding behavior and health. Additionally, we hypothesized that MR would not differ from TM. As a sample size calculation at 80% power using power analysis (PROC POWER) in SAS 9.4, a total of 51 Holstein-Friesian vigorous male calves [vigor score 21-27; 17 per treatment; 4-d old; body weight (BW) = 40.0 ± 0.63 kg (mean ± SD)] were selected, assigned randomly to treatments, and housed in individual pens in an outdoor barn. Irrespective of the type of treatment, all calves were fed 6 kg/d liquid feed from d 1 to d 53 of the experiment. In a step-down weaning program, calves received 0.5 kg liquid feed from d 54 to d 60. All calves were weaned on d 61 and remained in the study until d 101 as post-weaning evaluation. The calves had ad libitum access to starter feed and fresh drinking water across the experiment. Intake, growth, and behavior data were analyzed using a general linear mixed model and health data were analyzed using mixed logistic regression, mixed linear regression, and survival analysis models in SAS. We found that supplementation was responsible for a greater dry matter intake (DMI; P = 0.004), superior average BW (P = 0.037), and increased crude protein (CP; P = 0.001) and crude fat (CF; P = 0.001) intakes, with the most favorable outcomes observed for the WM+TM group when compared with WM+MR. Animals fed WM (control group; CON) showed a smaller average daily gain during the first 40-d of life (P = 0.026), showing slight changes during the whole period of evaluation when compared with the supplemented groups (SUP; WM+MR and WM+TM). No difference between MR- and TM-SUP groups, probability of having abnormal appearance (P = 0.032) and pneumonia occurrence (P = 0.022) was reduced in the SUP than in CON animals, with no effect on diarrhea among treatment groups (P = 0.461). Using milk supplements added to WM is an alternative to improve the intake, performance, and health of young calves under cold stress. Our findings showed that SUP animals outperformed the CON group in terms of DMI, average BW, and intake of CP and CF, with the TM-SUP group displaying the most favorable outcomes. Moreover, the SUP groups demonstrated reduced odds of experiencing abnormal appearance and pneumonia, highlighting the positive impact of supplementation on calf health.

Proteins from Legumes, Cereals, and Pseudo-Cereals: Composition, Modification, Bioactivities, and Applications.

This review presents a comprehensive analysis of plant-based proteins from soybeans, pulses, cereals, and pseudo-cereals by examining their structural properties, modification techniques, bioactivities, and applicability in food systems. It addresses the critical need for a proper utilization strategy of proteins from various plant sources amidst the rising environmental footprint of animal protein production. The inherent composition diversity among plant proteins, their nutritional profiles, digestibility, environmental impacts, and consumer acceptance are compared. The innovative modification techniques to enhance the functional properties of plant proteins are also discussed. The review also investigates the bioactive properties of plant proteins, including their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antitumoral activities, and their role in developing meat analogs, dairy alternatives, baked goods, and 3D-printed foods. It underscores the consideration parameters of using plant proteins as sustainable, nutritious, and functional ingredients and advocates for research to overcome sensory and functional challenges for improved consumer acceptance and marketability.

Do promotions of healthier or more sustainable foods increase sales? Findings from three natural experiments in UK supermarkets

BackgroundDietary changes are necessary to improve population health and meet environmental sustainability targets. Here we analyse the impact of promotional activities implemented in UK supermarkets on purchases of healthier and more sustainable foods.MethodsThree natural experiments examined the impact of promotional activities on sales of a) no-added-sugar (NAS) plant-based milk (in 199 stores), b) products promoted during ‘Veganuary’ (in 96 stores), and c) seasonal fruit (in 100 non-randomised intervention and 100 matched control stores). Data were provided on store-level product sales, in units sold and monetary value (£), aggregated weekly. Predominant socioeconomic position (SEP) of the store population was provided by the retailer. Analyses used interrupted time series and multivariable hierarchical mixed-effects models.ResultsSales of both promoted and total NAS plant-based milks increased significantly during the promotional period (Promoted:+126 units, 95%CI: 105–148; Overall:+307 units, 95%CI: 264–349). The increase was greater in stores with predominately low SEP shoppers. During Veganuary, sales increased significantly for plant-based foods on promotion (+60 units, 95%CI: 37–84), but not for sales of plant-based foods overall (dairy alternatives: -1131 units, 95%CI: -5821–3559; meat alternatives: 1403 units, 95%CI: -749–3554). There was no evidence of a change in weekly sales of promoted seasonal fruit products (assessed via ratio change in units sold: 0.01, 95%CI: 0.00–0.02), and overall fruit category sales slightly decreased in intervention stores relative to control (ratio change in units sold: -0.01, 95%CI: -0.01–0.00).ConclusionDuring promotional campaigns there was evidence that sales of plant-based products increased, but not seasonal fruits. There was no evidence for any sustained change beyond the intervention period.

Holstein calves fed a milk replacer with a direct-fed microbial and a starter containing a botanical extract or a direct-fed microbial alone or in combination

Botanical extracts (BE; Apex, Adisseo, North America) have demonstrated enhanced DMI and improved gut health, while direct fed microbials (DFM), such as Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product (EX: Excell, Pacer Technology, Inc.), has demonstrated improved gut health and growth performance of growing Holstein calves. The hypothesis was this combination may be synergistic to neonatal calf growth performance and intestinal health. Eighty, 2-5-d old Holstein bull calves were blocked by BW and randomly assigned to one of 8 treatments arranged in a 2 × 4 factorial using a randomized complete block design. The main factors were milk replacer (MR) without (Control) and with EX added at 5 g/d fed and calf starter (CS). The CS containing no additives (Control); CS containing BE at 496 mg/kg; CS containing EX at 2.50 g/kg; and CS containing BE and EX at the same inclusion rates. The MR were fed 2x/d at 0630 and 1800 h along with free choice CS (amounts and orts weighed d) and water. Weaning occurred after d 42 for the 56-d experiment. No MR by CS main effects interactions were detected for BW, ADG, CS intake, total DMI, feed efficiency or body frame gain parameters. The BW gain (38.0 and 39.3 kg for control and EX, respectively) for MR main effect was similar for calves fed both MR, while CS main effects (38.7, 39.7, 39.2, and 37.2 kg for control, BE, EX, and BE&EX, respectively) was similar among all CS. Gains in body length (10.6 and 10.8 cm), hip width (4.5 and 4.5 cm), withers height, (10.5 and 10.6 cm) heart girth (18.6 and 19.9 cm) and body length (9.1 and 7.9 cm) were similar for calves fed both MR, while CS main effects for hip height (10.5, 10.2, 10.3, and 10.9 cm), hip width (4.7, 4.6, 4.4, and 4.3 cm) withers height (10.7, 10.9, 10.3 and 10.6 cm), heart girth (19.9, 18.9, 18.9, and 19.4 cm), and body length (11.7, 9.1, 8.3, and 8.4 cm) were similar. Total days of a fecal score = 0 was greater for calves fed Control MR and BE CS compared with calves fed Contol MR and the combination of BE&EX with calves fed the remaining treatments being intermediated and similar. This study demonstrated little calf growth performance and health benefits when feeding a BE or EX alone or in combination compared with calves fed control.

Relative merits of offering a milk replacer, glucose-electrolyte, or whey-based diet on the blood composition and health of unweaned calves after transport

The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to assess the relative merits of offering unweaned calves 3 different types of diets to meet energy and water deficits that can occur during journeys. A total of 6 young unweaned male Holstein calves were randomly selected from within 2 body weight ranges (median 48 and 42 kg) from each of 29 loads (total n = 174 calves) transported from an auction market or a collection center to a calf sorting center before transport to a veal unit. The calves were then randomly allocated to one of 3 dietary treatments (n = 58 calves/dietary treatment). They were offered either a milk replacer diet (M), a glucose-electrolyte diet (G) or a whey-based diet with added electrolytes (W). The ability of these diets to provide sufficient nutrient energy to restore vigor, and avoid hypoglycemia and clinical signs of dehydration without increasing the risk of diarrhea was assessed. A clinical assessment of dehydration, health, and vigor was made, and the calves were blood sampled before feeding and at 2 h and 4 h after feeding. The plasma glucose concentration was increased 2 h and 4 h after feeding the M and W diets. The increases in plasma glucose concentration were greater 2 h and 4 h after (1) feeding the M than after the W diet and (2) feeding the M and W diets than after the G diet. Back-transformed means and 95% CI for the ratio of the plasma glucose concentration at 4 h compared with 0 h for the M, G, and W diets were 1.2 mM (CI = 1.21, 1.35), 0.95 mM (CI = 0.92, 0.97), and 1.09 mM (CI = 1.06, 1.14), respectively. We found no effect of diet on the change in serum total protein concentration between before feeding and 2 h and 4 h after feeding. The serum osmolality was lower 2 h after feeding the G diet. The fall in serum osmolality was greater 2 h after feeding the G diet than after feeding the M and W diets. The changes in the serum osmolality between before feeding and 2 h after feeding for the milk replacer, glucose-electrolytes and whey-based diets were -0.68 mOsmol (CI = -3.27, 1.91); -5.23 mOsmol (CI = -7.82, and -2.64); and -0.13 mOsmol (CI = -2.77, 2.51), respectively. The diet offered at the sorting center had no effect on subsequent growth on the veal-rearing farm between arrival and slaughter (milk replacer, 1.22 kg/d [CI = 1.17, 1.28]; glucose-electrolyte diet, 1.23 kg/d [CI = 1.18, 1.28]; whey-based diet 1.28 kg/d [CI = 1.23, 1.33]). The M diet provided the calves with nutrients and water to replace energy and water deficits that had accumulated before arrival at the sorting center, and these dietary benefits were still apparent 4 h after feeding. The benefits of the W diet were similar to those of the M diet, but the M diet was better able to assist the calves in maintaining their plasma glucose concentration 4 h after feeding than the W diet. The G diet had some short-term benefits in providing energy and assistance to the calves to recover from dehydration, as indicated by a decrease in serum osmolality. However, the G diet was clearly inferior to the M and W diets in providing sufficient energy to assist the calves in recovering from the effects of transport and fasting. During the 4 h after feeding, no adverse effects of offering the calves the M or W diets were observed. The benefits of the W diet in replacing energy and water deficits were similar to those of the M diet, but the M diet was better able to assist the calves in maintaining their blood glucose concentration 4 h after feeding than the W diet.

Soy protein particles as stabilizers of heat-stable O/W emulsions with 20% protein content

In response to the increasing demand for nutritionally rich foods, consumer preference for protein-enriched beverages has grown. However, heat-induced protein aggregation and gelation significantly hinders the production of high-protein drinks. In this study, oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions with exceptional thermal stability were formulated using modified soy protein particles (MSPs). These MSPs effectively resisted gel formation, even at a protein concentration of up to 20% (w/v). In contrast, emulsions prepared with untreated soy proteins (SPs) experienced pronounced gelation under identical conditions. The compact structure of MSPs, in comparison to SPs, imparted resistance to heat-induced denaturation and aggregation. Additionally, the emulsion displayed heightened heat processing insensitivity, due to the enhanced hydrophobicity of MSPs and their rapid adsorption at the oil-water interface, resulting in a denser, more elastic, and resilient interfacial film. These findings provide practical insights for the formulation of protein-rich milk alternatives, meeting the evolving market demands.

Nutritional, anti-nutrient, stability and organoleptic characterisation of plant-based milk alternatives derived from adzuki bean (Vigna angularis) and mung bean (Vigna radiata)

Adzuki bean (Vigna angularis) and mung bean (Vigna radiata) were investigated for their potential as plant-based milk alternatives. Their nutritional, anti-nutrient, stability, and organoleptic characteristics were compared with commercial soymilk and bovine milk. Results showed that both adzuki bean milk (ABM) and mung bean milk (MBM) demonstrated lower protein (ABM: 2.19 ± 0.10 %; MBM: 1.63 ± 0.05 %) and carbohydrate contents compared to soymilk. Additionally, they exhibited magnesium contents similar to bovine milk and iron levels comparable to both soymilk and bovine milk. While total amino acid content was lower in ABM and MBM, their phytic acid and purine contents were significantly lower than in soymilk. Fewer volatile compounds associated with beany flavours were also present in ABM and MBM, and ABM emerged as a palatable choice from the sensory analysis. These findings suggest that ABM and MBM have the potential to offer diverse and palatable plant-based milk options for consumers.

Development and Evaluation of Vegan Yogurts and Sour Milk Alternatives from White Lupin (Lupinus albus L.)

Cow milk allergy (CMA) triggers a clinically abnormal immunological response to cow milk proteins. To address this issue, extensive studies have explored milk alternatives from various animal and plant sources. This study introduces a method for producing white lupin milk, resulting in fermented dairy-like products (vegan yogurt and sour milk alternatives). Four commercial yogurt cultures, including two mesophilic (CHN-11, CHN-22) and two thermophilic (YC-380, YC-X11) mixed bacterial cultures, were tested, with thermophilic ones yielding superior sensory outcomes for lupin-based yogurt alternatives. Incorporating inulin (2%) enhanced sensory appeal, particularly evident in strawberry and peach-flavoured variants, which achieved sensory scores comparable to cow milk yogurts. Furthermore, white lupin-based yogurts demonstrated superior water-holding capacity (up to 47.11 g/100 g in comparison with 42.35 g/100 g measured for cow milk yogurt), influencing texture and mouthfeel. They also exhibited favourable fatty acid profiles, notably rich in beneficial unsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic and linolenic acid (up to 10.15% and 8.43%, respectively), indicating potential health benefits. Sensory evaluation underscored the impact of starter cultures on product attributes, with certain cultures yielding more favourable results. In conclusion, white lupin emerges as a promising alternative protein source with the potential to produce high-quality dairylike products. While white lupin-based products hold promise as functional foods for individuals with specific dietary needs, further research is necessary to address potential allergenic concerns associated with white lupin proteins.

Understanding the influence of end-users on the acceptance of gene edited foods and sensitivity to information

Consumer acceptance of gene edited foods varies significantly, with this variability increasing when consumers learn about the technology and its advantages. Yet, drivers of this heterogeneity remain mostly unclear. Focusing on milk from gene edited cows, we used data from a survey of U.S. consumers to examine the impact that the end-user (i.e., the individual consuming the good) has on purchaser’s (i.e., the person buying the products) preferences and response to information.We find substantial differences in respondents’ willingness to pay (WTP) depending on who the end-user is, with the impact varying notably depending on whether the gene edited milk is compared with organic or conventional alternatives. We find that while respondents generally show a higher WTP for all milk alternatives when the product is purchased for children, their valuation of gene edited milk differs significantly when contrasted with organic versus conventional milk. Relative to organic milk, the subgroup purchasing for children showed a considerably lower average marginal WTP for gene edited products than those purchasing for themselves or other adults. This contrast was less pronounced when gene edited milk was compared with conventional milk. The subgroup purchasing milk for children also showed the least pronounced difference across respondents who received information versus those that did not. Again, this was particularly the case when looking at the WTP for organic milk. Together our results highlight the importance of considering the purchase context including the end-user in trying to understand purchasers’ preferences and behavior.

Effects of probiotic-supplemented milk replacer on growth, blood biochemistry, fermentation, digestibility, and carcass traits in lambs

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of feeding cow's milk replacer and probiotic supplementation on growth performance, blood metabolites, ruminal fermentation parameters, and nutrient digestibility in male lambs, with ewe's milk serving as the control treatment. Eighteen male lambs with an average initial body weight of 5.0 ± 1.2 kg and age of 15 ± 4 days were randomly assigned to three experimental groups: ewe's milk, cow's milk replacer, and cow's milk replacer with probiotic supplementation. The experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design. Lambs fed ewe's milk showed significantly higher average daily gain (218.4 g/day) compared to those fed cow's milk replacer (183.7 g/day) or cow's milk replacer with probiotic (209.1 g/day). Similarly, dry matter intake was highest in the ewe's milk group (585.6 g/day) compared to the cow's milk replacer (435.9 g/day) and cow's milk replacer with probiotic (510.5 g/day) groups. Blood glucose levels were higher in the ewe's milk group (75.3 mg/dL) compared to the cow's milk replacer (70.3 mg/dL) and cow's milk replacer with probiotic (72.1 mg/dL) groups. Probiotic supplementation resulted in increased blood urea nitrogen (15.6 mg/dL) and total protein (7.3 g/dL) levels compared to the other groups. Furthermore, the ewe's milk group showed higher apparent dry matter (76.1%) and crude protein (68.5%) digestibility compared to the other treatments. The fecal score on day 30 was higher in the cow's milk replacer group (2.34) compared to the ewe's milk (1.24) and cow's milk replacer with probiotic (1.45) groups. There were no significant differences in the carcass traits of the experimental lambs. In conclusion, based on the results of this study, it seems that feeding cow's milk + probiotic as a replacement for ewe's milk did not significantly affect the performance, carcass traits, and blood and fermentation parameters in infant lambs.

Analysis of physicochemical properties of nut-based milk and sweetened condensed milk alternatives

This study analyzed the physicochemical properties of nut-based milk and sweetened condensed milk (SCM) alternatives. Four types of nuts (almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, and walnuts) were roasted at 140 °C for 15 min, followed by the preparation and analysis of milk and SCM alternatives. During the production of SCM by heating with adding sugar, the pH, moisture, and L* decreased, while the carbohydrates, viscosity, and browning index increased significantly (p < 0.05). Oleic acid, linoleic acid, and linolenic acid contents were comparable among all samples (p > 0.05). Volatile compounds were analyzed using HS-SPME-GC–MS to determine changes due to roasting and heating, and a total of 54 volatile compounds were identified. These findings to show the importance of the physicochemical characteristics of milk and SCM alternatives, provide practical information for the development of improved-quality dairy alternatives.

Industrially Produced Plant-Based Food Products: Nutritional Value and Degree of Processing.

The plant-based food market is rapidly growing, offering innovative options to meet consumer expectations. However, a comprehensive analysis of the nutritional quality of these foods is lacking. We aimed to characterize industrial plant-based food products' nutritional value and degree of processing. A cross-sectional study was conducted on two market-leading Portuguese food retail chains by assessing the nutritional composition of all the available pre-packaged plant-based food products (n = 407). These products were categorized into meal alternatives, dairy alternatives, and other products containing dairy/meat alternative ingredients including ready meals and desserts. The products' nutritional quality was assessed according to the cut-offs established by the Portuguese Directorate General of Health [DGS] on total fat, saturated fat, sugar, and salt, and considering the degree of processing using NOVA classification. One-tenth of the products were classified as having a high total fat, saturated fat, sugars, or salt content. In some sub-categories, half of foods were classified as high in saturated fat, and over two-thirds were considered high salt products. Less than one-third exhibit a good nutritional profile based on the national cut-offs. A total of 84.3% of plant-based food products were ultra-processed. These findings emphasize the need to improve the nutritional profile of plant-based options.