Effect of Mannan Oligosaccharides Supplementation on Milk Production, Composition, and Udder Health in Crossbred Lactating Cattle

Author: Gautami Sarma, Jyoti Palod, Anita Arya, S. K. Singh, Shive Kumar, Sanjay Kumar, R.K. Sharma, Sumit Gangwar and Gyan Deepak Kumar

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Abstract

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of Mannan Oligosaccharides (MOS) supplementation on milk production, composition, and quality in crossbred lactating cattle. Twelve mid-lactation crossbred cows (second to fourth parity) were randomly divided into two groups (n=6): T₀, receiving a basal diet (control), and T₁, receiving a basal diet supplemented with MOS at 12 g/cow/day. The trial was conducted for 90 days, with individual milk yield recorded daily and milk samples collected on the 45th and 90th day for analysis of fat, protein, SNF, total solids (TS), lactose, density, freezing point, pH, and somatic cell count (SCC). Results indicated that MOS supplementation significantly (P<0.01) increased milk fat percentage and significantly (P<0.05) improved milk protein and total solids compared to the control. SCC was significantly (P<0.01) reduced in the MOS-supplemented group, indicating improved udder health. However, milk yield, SNF, lactose, density, freezing point, and pH remained statistically non-significant (P>0.05). These findings suggest MOS as a beneficial natural feed additive for crossbred lactating cattle.

Keywords

Crossbred Cattle, Mannan Oligosaccharides, Milk Production, Milk Composition, Somatic Cell Count

Conclusion

Supplementation of MOS at 12 g/cow/day positively influenced milk composition and udder health in crossbred lactating cows. It significantly increased milk fat, protein, and total solids, thereby enhancing overall milk quality, and reduced SCC, indicating improved mammary gland health. However, MOS supplementation did not significantly affect milk yield, SNF, lactose, density, freezing point, or pH, suggesting that the fundamental physicochemical properties of milk remained stable. Overall, MOS can be considered an effective natural feed additive for improving milk quality and supporting udder health without altering the intrinsic milk characteristics.

References

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How to cite this article

Gautami Sarma, Jyoti Palod, Anita Arya, S. K. Singh, Shive Kumar, Sanjay Kumar, R.K. Sharma, Sumit Gangwar and Gyan Deepak Kumar (2025). Effect of Mannan Oligosaccharides Supplementation on Milk Production, Composition, and Udder Health in Crossbred Lactating Cattle. Biological Forum, 17(11): 01-04.