Our objective was to determine the effects of increasing dietary inclusion of HOS expeller meal on yields of milk and milk components, and milk income. Our hypothesis was that as the amount of HOS expeller meal increased in the diet, the yields of milk fat and protein would increase. Increasing dietary inclusion of HOS expeller meal up to 18% of the diet linearly increased production responses of high-producing dairy cows by increasing yields of milk, milk fat, and milk lactose, although the magnitude of responses in the current study were less than those observed in our dose response with roasted HOS.

Resultsfrom this study enable us to positively impact dairy cow production efficiency and farm income by gaining insight on strategies to increase milk component yields. Importantly, our original research findings are having immediate application by providing valuable knowledge for use by farmers and nutritionists to better appreciate and develop feeding strategies designed for increasing the yields of milk and milk components. Results will continue to be presented at local, regional, and national dairy nutrition meetings to further the impact of this work.