Effect of organic acid salts supplementation on milk production, milk composition and blood parameters in early lactation dairy cows N

This study aims to evaluate the effects of organic acid salts supplementation on early-lactation Montbéliarde (MO) and Normande (NO) dairy cows. Seventy cows (36 MO, 34 NO) were allocated to two groups (n = 35 each). The supplemented group (OA) received 50 g/cow/day of calcium and sodium malate and propionate salts from calving to 65 days postpartum, while the control group (CON) received no additives. Daily milk production was recorded for each cow, and milk composition (protein, fat, lactose) was analyzed on Days 7, 35, and 65 postpartum. Blood samples were collected on Days 7, 14, and 21 postpartum to determine biochemical parameters. Organic acid salts supplementation significantly increased milk yield and improved milk fat, protein, and lactose yields and concentrations. A significant interaction between supplementation and breed was observed for both milk yield and lactose. Significant effects were also found for blood glucose, triglycerides, albumin, total protein, and calcium concentrations. Higher blood glucose levels suggest enhanced energy status, potentially reducing the risk of hepatic steatosis by lowering triglyceride and non-esterified fatty acid accumulation. Increased plasma protein and albumin levels indicate improved liver function and protein synthesis, supporting milk production. Higher blood calcium concentrations suggest better metabolic adaptation to lactational demands. Overall, organic acid salts supplementation may help maintain health and productivity during early lactation, reducing production losses and improving dairy farm profitability.