Time of day influences MUN levels

The time of day when you collect a milk sample influences milk urea nitrogen concentrations. This can be a concern for herds that collect test-day milk samples at the morning milking one month and the afternoon milking the next month, explains Herb Bucholtz, extension dairy cattle nutrition specialist at Michigan State University. MUN values obtained from these samples can vary significantly, particularly for herds milked three times per day. “This needs to be considered,” Bucholtz says. “Otherwise, accurate and reliable MUN results will not be obtained to make informed decisions for diet formulation.” If possible, collect individual milk samples for MUN testing at the same time of day.

1. Ag markets mixed again Tuesday
2. Behold, the power of Greek yogurt’s whey
3. Milk and dairy product prices remain stable
4. Ag markets generally mixed around midsession on Tuesday
5. How China may keep Calif. dairies in business
6. Why commodity feeding?

1. Will Smith dethroned in latest Peterson Farm Bros. parody
2. Uncertainty hangs over milk futures market
3. Chobani pushes back against UK Greek yogurt ban
4. Cattle crush Calif. dairy worker
5. WASDE: Corn price outlook lowered
6. U.S. 2012/13 corn export prospects cut as global trade boosted

1. Commentary: Clueless consumers
2. Commentary: Why should we care about the farm bill?
3. Senate moves ahead with immigration reform bill