September 16, 2020
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Across many parts of the world, summer temperatures have been increasing, bringing on heatwaves and drought. These extreme weather patterns create problems for the dairy industry by impairing milk production and lowering cattle reproduction rates.
The outlook of the dairy industry may be complex, but there’s evidence that seaweed feed supplements can help as farmers deal with heat stress in dairy cows.
How Seaweed Alleviates Heat Stress in Dairy Cows
Brown seaweed is one proven way for dairy cattle to better regulate their body heat and stress during times of extreme temperatures. Studies of Ascophyllum nodosum show a variety of positive effects on cattle from higher milk production rates to improved temperature control.
In one trial, Kansas State University used 24 lactating Holsteins to determine how Acadian feed supplement helped with milk production during summer heat stress. Adding a small amount of brown seaweed to the standard feed regimen of corn silage, whole cottonseed, chopped alfalfa, sweet brain, and a mixture of grains contributed to greater milk production and milk protein production in the Acadian-fed group.
Other trials have shown the potency of seaweed in helping cattle to regulate their internal temperatures. Under trial conditions, 32 cows were randomly assigned to different feed ration groups, and those fed 0.25% Acadian seaweed had a reduced body temperature response when the ambient temperatures increased. This prevented a reduction of dry matter intake, which is more likely to occur in the blistering summer months, and maintained reliable milk production.
With the cost-effectiveness of seaweed compared to other feed supplements, dairy farmers can control the cost of the nutritional regimen for their reduced herd size. Maximizing yield during the stressful summer months shouldn’t be a problem.
Want to learn more about how seaweed can help overcome heat stress in dairy cows? Contact us to receive information about Acadian's trials in your region.