In milk production, every liter counts. That’s why, when we talk about efficiency, rumen health, and product quality, even small changes in diet can make a big difference. In this article, we share the results of a study conducted under real farm conditions, comparing the effect of Fortcell Feed® Livestock—a multi-strain microencapsulated probiotic—with traditional monensin sodium, widely used in bovine production systems.
What was evaluated?
The study was conducted over 300 days on a dairy farm in the high tropics of Antioquia (Colombia), with 20 cows divided into two groups: one fed with Fortcell Feed® and the other with monensin, both receiving equivalent diets. The following parameters were measured:
- Daily milk production
- Fat and protein percentages
- MUN levels (milk urea nitrogen), an indicator of nitrogen metabolism
Results
+9% in milk production:
The group that received Fortcell Feed® produced 321 liters more per lactation, compared to the group that received monensin.
+13.88% in milk fat content:
The fat percentage was significantly higher with Fortcell Feed® (4.02%) versus monensin (3.53%).
Better nitrogen balance:
MUN levels were 12.65% lower with Fortcell Feed®, suggesting more efficient nitrogen utilization by the animal and reduced waste.
What does this mean for the producer?
Greater profitability: More milk, better composition, without increasing dietary costs.
Greater sustainability: Lower nitrogen excretion, reduced environmental impact.
Better animal health: Optimal MUN levels are linked to lower risk of reproductive and digestive disorders.
This study reinforces what many producers are already seeing in the field: multi-strain probiotics like Fortcell Feed® are not only an alternative to monensin but an effective tool to improve productive efficiency, intestinal health, and the sustainability of dairy systems.
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