The effects of feed types on milk quality in the Malta cow dairy industry

Abstract

This dissertation was based on the analysis of feed and milk of two different farms which feed different nutritional value to their cows. The main aim was to compare both nutritional value of the two farms and compare them with an ideal well balance diet of a dairy cow. Two farms were chosen, one from Malta and the other one from Gozo. These two farms were selected as the feeds and forages vary between them. Both farms raise the same breed which is the Holstein Frisian. This breed is selected as it has the highest yield of all milking cows, but the milk is low in fat. With different nutritional value the properties of milk such as fat and protein can be increased. These analyses were done so as to compare the different nutritional value of each farm and analyze the outcome production and milk quality. From this study it was noted that by improving the nutrition and good quality forages, Fat in milk can be improved. It was also observed that protein in milk is barely affected by feeding different nutrition to the dairy cows.