Summary
This controlled trial in Holstein dairy cows evaluated the substitution of alfalfa hay with amaranth hay at two replacement levels (50% and 100% on a dry matter basis). A 50% replacement did not compromise milk production or dry matter intake whilst improving serum antioxidant markers (glutathione peroxidase and reduced malonaldehyde), though 100% replacement reduced milk yield and crude protein digestibility. The findings suggest amaranth hay may offer antioxidant benefits as a partial forage alternative in temperate dairy systems.
Regional applicability
Amaranth is not widely cultivated as a forage crop in the United Kingdom, and its production economics and agronomic feasibility under UK climatic conditions would require assessment before practical application. However, the methodology and biomarker approach may inform broader UK research into alternative high-protein forages to reduce reliance on alfalfa imports.
Key measures
Dry matter intake, milk yield, milk fat concentration, rumen ammonia nitrogen and acetate, crude protein and neutral detergent fibre digestibility, serum glutathione peroxidase, malonaldehyde activity, serum urea nitrogen
Outcomes reported
The study assessed production performance, rumen fermentation, nutrient digestibility, serum biochemical parameters and antioxidant markers in Holstein dairy cows fed diets with 0%, 50% or 100% alfalfa hay replaced by amaranth hay over 60 days.
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