Interpretive Summary: Development of a dynamic model for prediction of energy in milk protein, lactose, fat, and enteric methane emissions in goats based on energy balance and indirect calorimetry studies

By: Carlos Fernández, Juan J Loor

The present model using mixed diets with different by-products to obtain macronutrient balance, methane emission, and milk performance during mid lactation could be an interesting tool to help farmers, without the costs of running animal experiments. The dietary change from grain-based to partial replacement with agro-industrial-byproducts in mid-lactation dairy goats was accompanied by transformations in carbohydrate and fat energy transfer to support production. The output underscored that both oxidation of carbohydrate and fat interact to maintain milk energy output.