Interpretive Summary: Postbiotic yeast fermentation product supplementation to lactating goats increases the efficiency of milk production by enhancing fiber digestibility and ruminal propionate, and reduces energy losses in methane

By: Carlos Fernández, Tamara Romero, Ignacio Badiola, Jesús Díaz-Cano, Gregorio Sanzol, Juan J Loor

Although in vitro data with mixed ruminal fluid demonstrated positive effects of postbiotics from lactobacilli on measures of fermentation and microbial profiles, there is a paucity of in vivo data with lactating ruminants. We evaluated the effects of incorporating a postbiotic yeast fermentation product in diets of lactating goats on energy partitioning, carbon and nitrogen balance, and performance. The postbiotic led to greater ruminal propionate concentration and fiber digestibility, and decreased partitioning of energy to methane. Those changes were associated with greater milk production. Data suggested that postbiotics could enhance efficiency of nutrient use for milk production.