Podcast
Real Science Exchange-Dairy
Hosted by Balchem Animal Nutrition & Health · EN
Balchem Real Science Exchange isn’t just any old boring podcast. You’ll get to know top researchers like you’ve never known them before. Go behind the scenes and hear the conversations that take place over a few drinks with friends. Join us as we discuss the hot topics in animal science and share a range of new ideas.
31episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Applied Amino Acid Nutrition For Record Breaking Milk Solids with Dr. Mike VanAmburgh
Yesterday01:09:11Tap to summarizeThe discussion opens with a welcome to the Real Science Exchange and an introduction to the expert panel, followed by foundational context around amino acid nutrition and its growing importance in dairy production systems. Early in the episode, the panel introduces the concept of feeding the “one-ton” component cow, highlighting the nutritional intensity required for high-output animals and comparing genomic potential with real-world feeding practices. (0:00–2:53) As the conversation develops, the panel emphasizes the importance of challenging traditional scientific assumptions and pushing the boundaries of dairy nutrition research. Practical, on-farm insights are shared through examples from Sunnyside Dairy, including consulting experience, environmental considerations, and feed quality management. The group also addresses stocking density and heat abatement strategies, reinforcing the relationship between cow comfort and production efficiency. (6:59–11:28) A shift toward performance philosophy introduces a high input–high output approach to dairy production, setting the stage for a deeper dive into amino acid research. The panel explores histidine as a potentially limiting amino acid and discusses its bioavailability, supported by both U.S. and global research perspectives. The conversation also covers the role of low-protein diets and how they influence histidine responses in modern dairy systems. (13:16–18:34) Attention then turns to rumen function and feeding stability, with a focus on total mixed ration (TMR) consistency and its impact on production outcomes. The panel explains methods for evaluating amino acid bioavailability and rumen protection, bridging the gap between controlled research and practical application on commercial dairies. (20:10–21:16) During an extended audience Q&A, experts provide actionable strategies for managing high metabolizable protein diets in fresh cows, along with day-to-day feeding practices that support consistency. The discussion highlights ongoing challenges with maintaining accurate data and ensuring feeding precision, both of which are essential for optimizing herd performance. (23:23–31:49) The episode then transitions into performance measurement and economic considerations. Panelists examine the biological drivers of milk production and discuss how to evaluate feed additives and nutritional strategies in commercial settings. Emphasis is placed on maintaining economic discipline in on-farm research, with Milk Urea Nitrogen (MUN) presented as a valuable metric for assessing protein efficiency. (34:50–38:48) Further exploration of protein nutrition includes discussion on casein and whey contributions to high-yield production, amino acid interactions, and differences in European feeding limits and regulations. The panel also reviews the role of lysine in fat synthesis and de novo milk fat production, along with sourcing challenges related to histidine and variability in protein ingredients such as blood meal digestibility. (40:51–50:54) As market dynamics come into focus, the group evaluates the value proposition of different protein sources and how nutrition strategies must adapt to economic fluctuations. These insights highlight the importance of balancing cost, performance, and efficiency when formulating rations in a changing market environment. (54:21–55:30) In the closing portion of the episode, the panel addresses final audience questions and discusses the benefits of precision release methionine technologies in supporting production efficiency. The conversation wraps up with forward-looking insights into dairy nutrition, including opportunities in fresh cow management and the ongoing interaction between genotype and feeding strategies. (58:22–1:05:48) The episode concludes with key takeaways and additional resources for continued learning through Balchem ANH’s Real Science Exchange podcasts and webinars, providing listeners with access to further insights on dairy nutrition and innovation. (1:07:53) Please subscribe and share with your industry friends. Invite more people to join us at the Real Science Exchange virtual pub table. Please be sure to register for our upcoming Real Science Lecture Series webinars. Finally, if you want one of our Real Science Exchange t-shirts, screenshot your rating, review, or subscription. Then, email a picture to anh.marketing@balchem.com. Include your size and mailing address. As a result, we’ll mail you a shirt.
Transcribe →Nitrogen Efficiency and its Implications for Sustainable Dairy Nutrition with Dr. Kelly Nichols
1w ago00:59:37Tap to summarizeRecorded live at the Florida Ruminant Nutrition Conference, this episode of the Real Science Exchange explores how improving nitrogen efficiency can enhance both dairy performance and environmental sustainability. Featuring Dr. Kelly Nichols (UC Davis), Dr. Jonas de Souza (Perdue Animal Nutrition), and Dr. Ben Wenner (Feed Works), the conversation brings together leading perspectives on how nitrogen utilization continues to shape modern dairy nutrition programs.
Transcribe →Trace Mineral Requirements: A Practical Guide for Dairy Nutritionists with Dr. Bill Weiss
2w ago01:05:43Tap to summarizeThe episode opens with a welcome to the Real Science Exchange and introductions to the panel, including Steve Martin, Maria Spindola, Stephanie Hansen, and Dr. Bill Weiss, setting the stage for a deep dive into mineral nutrition. (00:00 – 02:19) The discussion begins by comparing NASEM requirements with practical feeding recommendations, emphasizing how minimum requirements are designed to prevent deficiency—not maximize productivity. The panel explores how nutritionists incorporate safety margins and manage risk in formulation, including considerations around mineral toxicity and environmental impact. (04:21 – 08:19) From there, the conversation shifts to real-world application, highlighting the challenges of measuring mineral absorption and translating formulation strategies into on-farm execution. The panel discusses feeding logistics and how variability in mixing, delivery, and intake affects outcomes in dairy nutrition programs. (08:19 – 09:58) Attention then turns to specific minerals, including copper and iodine, and the role of antagonists in reducing mineral availability. The speakers discuss the risks of overfeeding inorganic minerals and the dairy industry’s evolving approach to copper supplementation, along with the broader implications for animal performance and human health. (12:44 – 18:44) The panel also explores diagnostic tools and testing methods, including feed, water, and forage analysis, as well as more advanced techniques like liver biopsies. They highlight the importance of understanding molybdenum levels, ash content, and other factors that can influence trace mineral balance and absorption. (20:32 – 27:54) As the conversation continues, the focus shifts to optimization strategies—connecting mineral nutrition to health outcomes like hoof integrity, antioxidant status, and overall performance. The role of selenium, vitamin E, and structured testing approaches are discussed, along with practical tools nutritionists can use to evaluate and refine feeding programs. (31:14 – 41:45) The episode also examines water quality and background mineral contributions, emphasizing how often-overlooked sources can impact total mineral intake. A deeper dive into mineral requirements and sources follows, including emerging insights on manganese, differences between beef and dairy systems, and key areas for future research. (43:37 – 49:52) Finally, the panel tackles the ongoing debate around sulfate trace minerals and their potential effects on fiber digestibility and nutrient utilization. The episode closes with a discussion on alternative mineral sources, cobalt and vitamin B12 requirements, and key takeaways for building more precise, performance-driven mineral nutrition programs. (51:21 – 58:12) Please subscribe and share with your industry friends to invite more people to join us at the Real Science Exchange virtual pub table. If you want one of our Real Science Exchange t-shirts, screenshot your rating, review, or subscription, and email a picture to anh.marketing@balchem.com. Include your size and mailing address, and we’ll mail you a shirt.
Transcribe →Yeast Supplements Explained with Dr. Melina Bonato, ICC Animal Nutrition
3w ago00:41:51Tap to summarizeYeast supplements play a critical role in modern animal nutrition, gut health, and feed efficiency, but not all yeast products work the same way. In this episode of the Real Science Exchange, recorded live at IPPE in Atlanta, Dr. Melina Bonato of ICC Animal Nutrition breaks down the science behind yeast supplements, yeast cultures, and pure yeast products, and explains how different yeast types are produced, processed, and applied across species. The discussion covers yeast functionality in the gut microbiome, differences between autolyzed yeast, hydrolyzed yeast, and yeast cell walls, and how nutritionists and producers can select the right yeast solution for swine, piglets, and animals in high‑stress production phases such as reproduction and transition. The episode concludes with practical guidance on matching yeast supplements to production goals for improved animal performance and health. ⏱️ Episode Chapters 00:00 – Welcome and Guest Introduction Recorded live from IPPE, the episode opens with an introduction to Dr. Melina Bonato and her expertise in yeast research and animal nutrition. 01:06 – Dr. Bonato’s Academic and Professional Journey Dr. Bonato shares her education, research background, and career path in yeast-based nutritional solutions. 04:30 – The Evolution of Yeast in Animal Nutrition How yeast products have evolved over time and why their role continues to expand across species. 07:35 – Introduction of Graciella Valini Graciella Valini joins the conversation, adding perspective to the discussion. 09:27 – Yeast Functionality and the Microbiome An overview of how yeast interacts with the gut microbiome to support animal health. 10:54 – Defining Different Types of Yeast Key differences between yeast products used in animal nutrition and how they are classified. 13:09 – Processing Yeast: Autolysis and Hydrolysis How processing methods influence yeast structure, functionality, and application. 15:24 – Components of Yeast: Cytoplasm vs. Cell Wall What’s inside yeast cells and why different fractions play distinct nutritional roles. 17:24 – Yeast Culture vs. Pure Yeast Clarifying the differences between yeast cultures and pure yeast products. 18:48 – Identifying the Problem to Solve Why clearly defining the nutritional or production challenge is critical before selecting a yeast solution. 20:24 – Yeast Solutions for Swine and Piglets How yeast can support gut health and performance in young animals. 25:08 – Targeting Reproductive and Transition Phases Using yeast strategically during periods of higher stress and physiological change. 28:41 – Pure Yeast vs. Yeast Cultures in Challenging Conditions Comparing how different yeast forms perform under stress or disease pressure. 30:51 – The Future of Yeast Research Emerging research areas and what’s next for yeast in animal nutrition. 37:11 – Key Takeaways: Begin With the End in Mind Final insights on aligning yeast selection with specific production goals. 38:34 – Matching Yeast Products to Production Goals Practical considerations for choosing the right yeast product. Please subscribe and share this episode with your industry colleagues and invite them to join us at the Real Science Exchange virtual pub table. Be sure to register for upcoming Real Science Lecture Series webinars to continue the conversation. Finally, if you’d like a Real Science Exchange t‑shirt, screenshot your rating, review, or subscription and email it to anh.marketing@balchem.com with your size and mailing address, and we’ll send one your way.
Transcribe →Maternal Fed Choline: Game Changing Results for Beef x Dairy Calves with Dr. Heather White
4w ago00:45:49Tap to summarizeRecorded live at the Florida Ruminant Nutrition Conference, this episode of the Real Science Exchange features Drs. Heather White and Brad Johnson exploring the role of maternal choline nutrition and its emerging impact on beef × dairy calf performance. Maternal nutrition plays a powerful role in shaping beef quality outcomes. In this episode, Dr. Heather White explores how maternal choline supplementation influences fetal muscle development, marbling, feed efficiency, and tenderness—providing new insight into value creation for beef × dairy systems. ⏱️ Episode Chapters 0:00 – 2:18 | Unlocking Marbling: Why Maternal Nutrition Matters An overview of how maternal choline supplementation during gestation can influence carcass quality and marbling in offspring. 2:18 – 8:50 | The Science of In‑Utero Programming and Muscle Development How fetal programming affects muscle fiber formation, intramuscular fat deposition, and long‑term beef quality. 8:50 – 12:32 | The Economic Multiplier: Why Early Choline Investment Pays Off Connecting maternal nutrition to downstream economic returns through improved performance and carcass value. 12:32 – 21:33 | Boosting Feed Efficiency: Lessons from Argentina’s Receiving Trials Real‑world data showing how early nutritional strategies influence feed efficiency and growth during receiving and backgrounding. 21:33 – 26:59 | Muscle Physiology and Tenderness A deeper look at how muscle development impacts tenderness and eating quality. 26:59 – 33:33 | The Future of Branded Beef Programs How maternal nutrition insights may shape branded beef strategies and differentiated beef × dairy value chains.
Transcribe →Manure Evaluation: Cows and Their Rations LIVE with Dr. Mary Beth Hall and Dr. Stefano Vandoni
Apr 2801:09:33Tap to summarizeThis episode of the Real Science Exchange features Dr. Mary Beth Hall, founder of The Cows Are Always Right and former USDA‑ARS scientist, discussing her highly attended Real Science Exchange webinar, Manure Evaluation: Figuring Out What’s Going On Between Cows and Their Rations. Joining the pub‑table conversation are Dr. Clay Zimmerman, Dr. Stefano Vandoni, and Dr. Sion Richards. Dr. Mary Beth Hall explains why manure evaluation is one of the most reliable diagnostic tools in dairy nutrition, providing a direct biological response that may not appear in ration models or performance data. She emphasizes why manure must be evaluated alongside cow behavior and production metrics. (09:28) Mary Beth breaks down the science of fecal pH, including how to measure it correctly, why results can be misleading if done improperly, and what fecal pH reveals about digestion beyond the rumen. She explains why fecal pH does not directly reflect rumen pH and how fiber source influences hindgut fermentation. (14:46) The discussion shifts to practical manure screening on farm. Mary Beth explains what to look for when rinsing manure, how undigested fiber or grain can signal rate‑of‑passage and feed processing issues, and why screening is best used as a qualitative diagnostic tool rather than a strict numerical benchmark. (21:36) The panel compares manure evaluation with rumination monitors and emerging dairy technologies, highlighting why sensor data must be interpreted in context with manure consistency, cow behavior, intake patterns, and diet composition to accurately assess cow health. (28:16) Real‑world troubleshooting examples illustrate how ration and management issues—including spoiled silage, feed sorting, inconsistent intake, and water quality problems—often appear first in the manure. Variation within a pen is discussed as an early warning sign for nutrition challenges. (42:14) In closing, the group reinforces why manure evaluation remains underutilized despite being one of the clearest biological indicators of cow health. Integrating manure observation with cow comfort, rumination, feeding management, and overall herd behavior is critical for better nutrition decision‑making. (46:34) Please subscribe and share this episode with your industry colleagues and invite them to join us at the Real Science Exchange virtual pub table. Be sure to register for upcoming Real Science Lecture Series webinars to continue the conversation. Finally, if you’d like a Real Science Exchange t‑shirt, screenshot your rating, review, or subscription and email it to anh.marketing@balchem.com with your size and mailing address, and we’ll send one your way.
Transcribe →IFEEDER Research Submission Program with Lara Moody, Dr. Chad Risley, and Dr. Yan-Tai Hung of IFEEDER
Apr 2100:27:02Tap to summarizeThis episode of Real Science Exchange was recorded live at the 2026 IPPE Show and focuses on the newly formalized IFEEDER Research Submission Program and its role in advancing innovation across the animal feed and pet food industries. Lara Moody, Executive Director of the Institute for Feed Education and Research (IFEEDER), opens the discussion by outlining IFeeder’s mission to advance understanding and trust in a sustainable animal feed and pet food supply chain. Founded in 2009, IFEEDER has steadily expanded its scope of work, recently releasing key industry resources including feed ingredient consumption reports, a comprehensive pet food ingredient report covering more than 600 ingredients, and a strategic assessment of vitamins and amino acids related to U.S. food security. (0:46) Lara then introduces Dr. Yan‑Tai Hung, IFeeder’s Senior Research Manager, whose background as a swine nutritionist brings additional technical depth to the organization’s research efforts. Dr. Hung discusses his experience in applied nutrition research and how IFEEDER is expanding beyond individual ingredients to address the broader animal food production chain and food availability challenges. (2:05) The conversation turns to IFEEDER’s funding model and organizational growth, with Laura explaining how the foundation has diversified beyond industry funding alone. Over the past five years, IFeeder has shifted from relying almost entirely on industry contributions to securing significant support through grants and partnerships with organizations such as the USDA, commodity groups, and other stakeholders—allowing annual project funding to grow substantially. (3:24) Dr. Chad Risley, Research Committee Chair, shares his long‑standing involvement with IFeeder and reflects on how the organization has evolved from early educational initiatives to a more focused, impact‑driven research foundation. He highlights the importance of IFEEDER’s sustainability toolkit and strategic planning in helping the organization gain momentum and relevance across the industry. (4:29) A major focus of the episode is the new IFeeder Research Submission Program, which formalizes how research ideas move from concept to funded projects. Previously, projects originated informally through committees and the board. The new process provides clear submission guidelines and evaluation criteria to ensure proposed projects align with AFIA priorities and deliver practical value to the industry. (8:39) The panel explains that while the submission process is newly approved, outreach is already underway with AFIA committees and industry stakeholders to encourage future submissions. With 14 AFIA committees representing diverse areas of animal nutrition, IFEEDER aims to ensure broad participation across the feed and pet food sectors. (11:28) Dr. Risley discusses how IFEEDER‑supported research has already driven regulatory and policy wins, including data used to demonstrate the economic impact of delayed feed additive approvals—a project that helped secure additional FDA resources to improve regulatory efficiency. (12:04) The discussion then shifts to collaboration with universities, where Laura emphasizes IFEEDER’s role as a bridge between academic research, industry needs, and nonprofit funding. By partnering with universities, IFEEDER helps align research proposals with real‑world challenges while strengthening grant competitiveness and knowledge transfer. (13:26) Looking ahead, the panel outlines research priorities for 2026 and beyond, including sustainability, foreign animal disease prevention, biosecurity risks, and improving communication around animal health and nutrition. Sustainability is framed not only as environmental stewardship, but as the long‑term viability and profitability of the animal feed and pet food industries. (16:21) Lara highlights strategic wins over the past five years, including the development of a formal strategic plan, increased industry visibility, and the creation of tools and datasets that support foot printing, feed formulation decisions, and industry advocacy. (18:59) The episode wraps up with discussion of IFEEDER’s feed consumption reports, which quantify the economic impact of the feed industry at state and congressional district levels. These reports have become valuable tools for educating policymakers and supporting science‑based advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill. (21:52) Final remarks encourage listeners to stay engaged with IFEEDER, subscribe to its newsletter, share research ideas, and support the foundation’s work through contributions and participation in its annual Day of Giving. (24:41) Please subscribe and share with your industry friends to invite more people to join us at the Real Science Exchange. If you want one of our Real Science Exchange t-shirts, screenshot your rating, review, or subscription, and email a picture to anh.marketing@balchem.com.
Transcribe →Global Dairy Market Status and 2035 Perspectives with Andrea Lendewig and Philipp Goetz, IFCN Dairy and Lucas Fuess, Rabobank
Apr 1401:08:05Tap to summarizeThis episode features Andrea Lendewig, Head of Research & Development at IFCN, discussing her Real Science Exchange webinar presentation Global Dairy Market Status and 2035 Perspectives. Joining the conversation are Philipp Goetz, Head of Sales and Business Development at IFCN; Lucas Fess, Senior Dairy Analyst with Rabobank; and Jeremy Painter, Vice President of Global Commercial Operations for Animal Nutrition & Health at Balchem. Together, the panel examines current milk production trends, regional differences, butter and protein markets, exports, herd dynamics, and what the next decade may hold for global dairy. Andrea opens by outlining IFCN’s global dairy data network and explains how annual farm‑level data collection and monthly updates allow IFCN to monitor milk production, prices, and costs across major dairy regions. She highlights a major industry milestone: global milk production surpassing 1 billion tons, driven by growth across multiple regions. (04:40) The discussion then turns to recent production trends. The panel explains how the U.S. has shown consistent strength, while the EU experienced slower growth early before unexpected late‑season increases. China and parts of Latin America continue to grow production but remain dependent on international markets. Weather, animal health, and strong milk prices aligned to create production surprises in several regions. (17:30) Andrea and Lucas examine global milk price dynamics, focusing on the growing divergence between butter and cheese prices over the last decade. Butter prices have increasingly driven global milk price signals, influencing producer behavior and trade flows. One notable shift discussed is the U.S. becoming a net exporter of butter in 2025 after more than a decade as a net importer. (25:10) The panel also explores rising costs of milk production. IFCN data show that milk production costs have increased sharply over the last five years, with roughly 75% of countries now facing costs above $40 per hundredweight. These pressures are influencing farm investment decisions, particularly in regions with stricter environmental regulations. (28:30) Herd dynamics and beef‑on‑dairy economics are another key theme. Lucas and Jeremy describe how record beef prices have reshaped breeding decisions in the U.S., increased calf values, and encouraged producers to keep cows longer. This dynamic has contributed to U.S. herd growth and stronger-than-expected milk supply, raising the question of whether current production trends represent a new normal. (35:00) The conversation contrasts structural differences between Europe, and the U.S. European producers face tighter environmental regulations, land constraints, and aging farmer demographics, limiting expansion. In response, many EU farmers are diversifying income through solar energy, agri‑tourism, and land leasing rather than increasing milk output. Both IFCN and Rabobank suggest 2025 may represent peak milk production for the EU under current conditions. (45:00) Attention then shifts to exports and demand. Lucas outlines where U.S. dairy exports are growing—especially in Mexico, Asia, and emerging markets—and explains why exports will be critical as domestic consumption grows more slowly than production. The panel also discusses rising consumer interest in protein, from high‑protein milk and beverages to whey ingredients, and how this trend supports long‑term dairy demand. (51:00) Looking ahead to 2035, Andrea and Philip share IFCN’s long‑term outlook. The U.S. is expected to drive most global production growth, while Europe trends closer to self‑sufficiency and Oceania remains export‑focused. Demand growth—driven by population increases and more westernized diets in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East—is expected to outpace supply growth, supporting higher dairy prices over time. (57:30) In closing, the panel reflects on key takeaways: the importance of data‑driven decisions, diversification of farm income, continued productivity gains through genetics and technology, and strong long‑term fundamentals for dairy. While risks remain, the group agrees the global dairy sector is well positioned for the next decade. (01:02:00) Please subscribe and share with your industry friends. Invite more people to join us at the Real Science Exchange virtual pub table. Please be sure to register for our upcoming Real Science Lecture Series webinars. Finally, if you want one of our Real Science Exchange t-shirts, screenshot your rating, review, or subscription, and email a picture to anh.marketing@balchem.com. Include your size and mailing address, and we’ll mail you a shirt.
Transcribe →UK Seminar: Redefining Amino Acid Impact: New Research Unveiled
Apr 701:10:24Tap to summarizeDr. Mike Van Amburgh begins by outlining how amino acid nutrition has historically been viewed almost exclusively through the lens of milk protein. He explains that emerging research clearly shows amino acids play far broader roles in the cow, influencing milk fat synthesis, energy metabolism, and overall efficiency. As genetic potential has increased, amino acids are now supporting many biological pathways beyond simple milk protein yield. (05:50) The discussion quickly expands to nitrogen efficiency and environmental sustainability. Dr. Van Amburgh explains that dairy systems across Europe and North America are under increasing pressure to reduce nitrogen losses. By formulating more precise diets that better match amino acid requirements, cows can excrete significantly less urinary nitrogen while maintaining—or even improving—milk production, creating both environmental and economic benefits. (09:30) An audience question shifts the conversation toward the challenge of quantifying amino acids in forages. The panel discusses the robustness of current CNCPS model libraries and explains why forage amino acid profiles tend to be relatively conserved. While management factors like heat damage or poor fermentation can alter availability, microbial protein ultimately supplies a large and consistent portion of metabolizable amino acids to the cow. (12:15) Building on this, the panel explores where required amino acids actually come from. Dr. Van Amburgh emphasizes that microbial protein should supply roughly half of total amino acid needs, making rumen efficiency critical. However, as production levels rise, microbial protein alone is no longer sufficient—creating a clear role for rumen‑protected amino acids to close growing nutritional gaps. (16:20) Dr. Usman Arshad then leads a deep discussion on choline and methionine in transition cows. He explains why these two nutrients are not interchangeable, despite both acting as methyl donors. Choline has a unique lipotropic role in supporting liver fat export and reducing fatty liver risk during early lactation, while methionine primarily supports milk production and protein synthesis. Research shows that choline supplementation during the transition period alone can generate lasting carryover improvements in milk yield later in lactation. (29:00) The panel addresses a common industry question: how much choline is enough? Dr. Arshad reviews decades of research, including meta‑analyses showing a largely linear response between choline ion intake and milk production. While 12–13 g/day of choline ion remains the standard recommendation based on most available studies, data suggest additional benefits may exist at higher levels—even though more research is still needed. (34:00) Attention then turns to amino acid nutrition in close‑up and fresh cows. Dr. Van Amburgh explains that recent infusion and feeding studies demonstrate much higher metabolizable protein requirements than traditionally assumed, driven in part by the important role of non‑essential amino acids. These nutrients support energy generation, glucose synthesis, and tissue metabolism during early lactation—contributing to substantial gains in energy‑corrected milk when requirements are met. (44:30) The panel also discusses whether amino acid balancing can help cows cope with heat stress. While amino acids do not eliminate heat stress, improving metabolic efficiency appears to reduce wasted heat production and support immune function and gut integrity, potentially helping cows better navigate stressful conditions. (54:45) From science to economics, producers raise questions about return on investment. The group shares real‑world examples showing that improving amino acid balance often increases milk components without increasing intake, frequently delivering returns of 2:1 or greater, depending on milk pricing and market structure. (58:00) Dr. Van Amburgh then offers candid insights into rumen‑protected amino acid bioavailability, explaining that products on the market are not created equal. Independent testing has shown efficiencies ranging from as low as ~10% to as high as ~80%. The panel stresses that transparent, published bioavailability data are essential for accurate formulation and for maintaining credibility across the industry. (01:01:30) A technical discussion follows on measuring amino acid bioavailability, comparing isotope dilution, selenium‑methionine, and in vitro approaches. The group agrees that no method is perfect, but understanding assumptions and applying methods consistently can produce reliable, actionable data. (01:06:00) In the final phase of the episode, the panel examines modern high‑starch diets, monensin use, and intake regulation. Dr. Van Amburgh suggests many systems may now be producing excessive propionate, potentially limiting intake through chemical fill. He argues that rebalancing starch and NDF—rather than simply adding more concentrate—may unlock better efficiency and performance. (01:10:00) The episode concludes with final audience questions and a call to rethink traditional nutrition paradigms. The panel emphasizes that precision amino acid nutrition—supported by sound science, verified bioavailability, and thoughtful diet structure—is becoming essential for meeting the production, economic, and environmental demands facing dairy systems today. (01:20:29) Please subscribe and share with your industry friends to invite more people to join us at the Real Science Exchange virtual pub table. If you want one of our Real Science Exchange t-shirts, screenshot your rating, review, or subscription, and email a picture to anh.marketing@balchem.com. Include your size and mailing address, and we’ll mail you a shirt.
Transcribe →Rethinking Immunity in Transition Cows: Are They Truly Suppressed with Dr. Lance Baumgard, Iowa State University, and Dr. Robert Fry, Atlantic Dairy Consulting
Mar 3100:55:42Tap to summarizeDr. Baumgard opens by explaining the origin of the “immune suppression” theory in transition cows. Research dating back to the late 1970s showed slower neutrophil infiltration into the mammary gland in early lactation, which led to the assumption that cows are immunosuppressed after calving. This idea has shaped industry thinking for more than 40 years. (10:43) He outlines two primary mechanisms traditionally blamed for immune suppression: the cortisol surge at calving, which may impair neutrophil migration, and the metabolic changes of early lactation—high NEFAs, ketones, and low calcium—which appear to reduce neutrophil function in laboratory settings. (13:16) Dr. Baumgard then challenges the central assumption: are cows truly immunosuppressed, or are they simply exposed to greater pathogen loads and stressors during a narrow window around calving? He argues that morbidity may reflect increased environmental and physiological challenges rather than a dysfunctional immune system. (15:25) Dr. Fry shares field data from three herds representing over 100,000 calvings. After implementing management changes—primarily building a well-designed transition barn with lower stocking density, improved hygiene, and better cow flow—metritis rates dropped from 21.3% to 9.7%. Nutrition and innate immunity remained unchanged, suggesting management and environment were key drivers. (21:29) The panel discusses the role of stress stacking during the transition period. Dr. Baumgard explains that multiple simultaneous stressors, such as overcrowding, heat stress, hygiene challenges, social stress, and nutritional shifts, may overwhelm cows. He emphasizes growing evidence that stress compromises gut integrity (“leaky gut”), potentially triggering systemic inflammation and increasing susceptibility in tissues like the mammary gland. (27:27) Heat stress provides another example. While mastitis rates often increase during humid Midwest summers, they decline in arid regions like Arizona and Israel despite severe heat stress. Dr. Baumgard suggests environmental pathogen load—not immune suppression—is the primary driver. (27:43) The conversation shifts to ketosis and hyperketonemia. Dr. Baumgard and Dr. Pralle discuss how elevated BHB and NEFAs may not always indicate disease but instead reflect normal metabolic adaptation to support milk production. The key distinction is productivity: cows milking well with high ketones may not require intervention, while cows with high ketones and poor milk production warrant deeper investigation into underlying causes such as metritis, mastitis, hypocalcemia, gut inflammation, or environmental stress. (37:13) Dr. Fry reinforces the importance of whole-cow and whole-environment evaluation rather than treating metabolic markers in isolation. Monitoring milk yield, rumination, activity, and cow demeanor—along with assessing stocking density, pen hygiene, hoof health, and stockmanship—are critical to identifying true problems. (44:00) The group emphasizes reducing pathogen load through simple, practical management: minimizing manure accumulation, maintaining clean and dry bedding, improving calving hygiene, and lowering stocking density—especially for close-up and fresh cows. (33:39) Looking ahead, Dr. Baumgard describes his lab’s focus on modeling “stacked stressors” to better replicate the real-world transition period. Rather than studying stressors in isolation, his team is investigating how combined stressors influence physiology, particularly gut health. (47:11) In closing, the panel encourages industry professionals to reconsider the immune suppression paradigm. Instead of trying to “fix” the immune system at calving, the emphasis should shift toward removing stressors and minimizing environmental challenges that create excessive pathogen exposure. (53:01) Please subscribe and share with your industry friends to invite more people to join us at the Real Science Exchange virtual pub table. If you want one of our Real Science Exchange t-shirts, screenshot your rating, review, or subscription, and email a picture to anh.marketing@balchem.com. Include your size and mailing address, and we’ll mail you a shirt.
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