INCREASING DAIRY PRODUCTIVITY OF COWS DUE TO THE INCLUSION OF FEED ADDITIVE "OPTIGEN II" IN THE DIET

This article presents a study of the effect of protected non-protein nitrogen on the productive characteristics of lactating cows. The composition of the feed additive includes urea encapsulated by a lipid membrane, which ensures its gradual and uniform release in the rumen. This contributes to a more efficient synthesis of microbial protein by the bacteria of the scar. Experimental data indicate a significant increase in cow productivity when this supplement is included in the diet. During the lactation period of 305 days, the milk yield of cows in the experimental group increased by 6.4% compared with the control group. The average daily milk yield of cows receiving Optigen II was also higher by 6.52%. The analysis of the chemical composition of milk showed a positive trend in the fat and protein content in the milk of cows of the experimental group. The fat level was 3.70% compared to 3.55% in the control group, and the protein content reached 3.14% compared to 3.04% in the control group. The dairy index in the cows of the experimental group was increased by 55.1%, which indicates a significant improvement in the efficiency of feed use. The organoleptic properties of the milk obtained from cows of the experimental group were characterized by the absence of sediment and flakes, a homogeneous consistency, a sweet taste without foreign flavors and a characteristic natural odor. The conducted studies demonstrate the absence of side effects and complications when using the Optigen II feed additive. The analysis of cow productivity revealed statistically significant differences between the control and experimental groups in terms of quantitative and qualitative indicators of milk. The results indicate the high effectiveness of the additive in increasing milk productivity and improving the quality of dairy products.