Economic gains from consumption of legumes in dairy farming

Abstract

In many countries research investigations into protein sources have been conducted, as a high protein content feedstuff is the most expensive component of a feed ration. Faba beans and peas are highly productive crops and their economic role is large, seeds are prime quality feed concentrate for poultry and agricultural animals, as they comprise 22-35 % protein. The difference in the protein content of feedstuffs can considerably affect the cost of the feedstuffs. In this context the research aim is to identify economic gains from the consumption of legumes in dairy farming. Tackling problems with regard to opportunities to reduce milk production costs, a feeding experiment on dairy cows was carried out, replacing soybeans present in the diet with domestically grown legumes - faba beans and peas - to the extent of 22-24 % of the total amount of feed concentrate. An analysis of the effects of the use of faba beans and peas in the dairy cow diet on feed cost and productivity in the experimental period revealed that the daily feed ration cost decreased, the average milk yield was significantly higher and the feed cost per kg milk produced was lower than for the control group.