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Intensive breeding for high milk production can weaken dairy cows’ immune systems and increase the risk of mastitis. Vitamin E is added to support metabolism, but it is partially broken down in the rumen and is less effectively absorbed in the small intestine. Since biochar is known for its particularly high adsorption capacity and is approved as a feed ingredient in the EU, its role as a carrier for vitamin E is being investigated.
The project investigated biochar as a carrier for vitamin E. First, its use was tested in vitro, and based on its adsorption capacity, a type of biochar approved as a feed ingredient in the EU was selected for the in vivo test. The effect on the animals was studied at the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover on German Holstein dairy cows over a period of 98 days; the DIL analyzed the effects on the food produced. The hypothesis is that biochar improves vitamin E supply and thereby positively influences animal health and food quality. The status of vitamin E supply is assessed based on vitamin E levels in blood and feces, as well as in raw milk, butter, and adipose tissue. In addition, product-specific quality parameters are evaluated: the components of raw milk, processing characteristics for butter production, and the textural and sensory characteristics of butter and meat.
DIL German Institute of Food Technologies
Prof.-von-Klitzing-Str. 7
49610 Quakenbrück
+49 (0) 54 31 183 - 0
info@dil-ev.de
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