Production and Composition of Ewe’s Milk. Effects of Protected Fat Supplementation

Abstract

A database on the effects of protected fat supplementation [calcium soap of fatty acids (CSFA)] was developed to analyze these effects on milk production and composition in dairy ewes. On the whole, CSFA supplementation does not affect the quantity of milk marketable, it increases milk fat content (+ 21%) and decreases milk protein content (– 4%). Results greatly vary depending on the quantity of fat supplemented, and the ewe lactation stage. The best responses are observed with an addition of CSFA close to 150 g/day/ewe at the onset of lactation. The composition of milk fatty acids is almost always modified by protected fats, as percentages of short and medium chain fatty acids are reduced, and those of long chain fatty acids are increased. Including CSFA in the concentrate of dairy sheep does not improve lamb growth during the suckling period.