Healthy milk from healthy cows: a genetic analysis of quantity and trace element concentrations in the milk and serum of dairy cows

摘要

Nutrient levels in milk and blood of dairy cows are significantly influenced by both diet type and genetics which can help inform industry solutions to improve these for the benefit of the cow and the value of milk for human health.Nutrients are essential inorganic substances (i.e., not synthesised by living organisms) in the diet of all animals. Originating from the soil (intake comes from consumption of plants and animals) they are required in order to maintain normal body function and remain healthy (FAO and WHO, 2004). Dairy products contribute substantially to nutrient intake and are an important source of P, Ca, I and Mg (~ 60%, 60%, 55% and 10% of RNI respectively; Kliem and Givens, 2011). Here we aim to (1) determine the effect of genetic background and diet on circulating nutrient concentrations (conc.) in dairy cow milk and blood serum; and (2) carry out a genetic analysis of milk and serum nutrient conc.