T. Angelova1*, K. Nedelkov2, D. Yordanova1, V. Karabashev1, J. Krastanov1

1Agricultural Institute, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
2Department of Nutrition, dietetics and veterinary expertise of feed, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, 6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria

(Manuscript received 26 October 2020; accepted for publication 22 April 2021)

Abstract. The objective of this experiment was to investigate the effects of liquid organic mineral complex (MultiMix®) on the milk yield, composition and cheesemaking capacity of milk in dairy cows. Thirty Holstein cows (8 primiparous and 22 multiparous) were used in a randomized complete block design experiment with 15 cows per treatment. Feeding was ad libitum targeting 5% refusals. Milk yield data and samples for fat, true protein, solids not fat (SNF), lactose content and parameters characterizing the milk’s coagulation properties were collected throughout the experiment. Data suggested that MultiMix® administered through the cows’ drinking water had a positive effect on the milk productivity with a high degree of significance (p<0.001). A positive effect on the indicators characterizing the quality composition of milk has also been observed (p<0.001). Additionally, the cheesemaking capacity of milk was enhanced by supplementing animal water with MultiMix® (p<0.001). Overall, the new liquid organic mineral complex used in the present experiment showed promising results for improvement of milk production and composition in dairy cows but further studies are needed to unveil the physiologic mechanisms underlying these beneficial effects.