DairyTalk 332: Lower crude protein, higher margins: rethinking dairy ration strategies - by Helmut Demmelhuber

This episode draws on a technical article analyzing protein
efficiency as a key lever for profitability in dairy herds. It
demonstrates that commonly used “safety margins” in crude protein
levels can drive unnecessary feed costs and nitrogen losses. By
adjusting rations toward lower protein levels, farms can
significantly improve economic outcomes while maintaining milk
production. Milk urea nitrogen serves as a central indicator to
monitor nitrogen utilization and avoid inefficiencies. The
article emphasizes that better ration formulation and rumen
function deliver greater returns than relying on costly feed
additives. With comments on a "The Bullvine"-article (March 18th,
2026) by Andrew Hunt: https://www.thebullvine.com