Alternative Fermented Feeds in Ruminant Nutrition: Effects on Rumen Fermentation and Milk Production (A Review)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17108/ActAgrOvar.2025.66.2.84Keywords:
fermented feed, FTRM, rumen fermentation, milk production, sustainabilityAbstract
The continuous rise in feed costs and the increasing competition for feed resources have made the search for innovative feeding strategies in ruminant production increasingly urgent. This paper reviews the effects of fermented feeds—including fermented total mixed rations (FTMR) and fermented concentrate ingredients such as soybean meal, corn gluten meal, yellow wine lees, and rapeseed by-products—on rumen fermentation, milk yield, and milk composition. Fermented feeds have received growing attention in recent years, as they have been shown to improve nutrient digestibility, enhance the activity of beneficial ruminal microorganisms, and positively influence fermentation processes. Evidence suggests that their inclusion not only improves milk yield and composition but also enhances feed efficiency and overall animal health indicators. Furthermore, some studies report increased profitability, although available data on cost-effectiveness remain limited. Overall, the use of fermented feeds represents a promising approach to addressing the challenges of modern livestock production and may contribute to the development of more economical and sustainable ruminant husbandry.
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