Nutritional Aspects of Bovine Somatotropin (BST)

Abstract

As milk production increases 2 to 3 percent annually, nutrient demands for high producing cows will continue to be a major management challenge. Minnesota DHI data illustrate the shift in feeding programs and strategies as milk yield increases (Table 1). Bovine somatotropin (BST) is biotechnology that could increase milk yield 5 to 15 percent in the future. Mix (1987) predicted in the year 2000, average milk yield could be 16,335 pounds without BST or 20,418 pounds if BST was used by U.S. dairy farmers. Meeting the nutritional needs of BST treated cows must be understood by dairy farmers, dairy nutritionists, veterinarians, and agri-business personnel. By examining current feeding strategies in high producing herds, three-times-a day milking, and BST research, BST feeding strategies can be anticipated.