Brix for Milk Replacer Solids?
Questions about Accuracy with MR
In this article posted online on January 29 in Progressive Dairyman
click HERE
Dr. Vermeire presents findings that suggest significant bias when using a Brix refractometer to estimate solids content of milk replacer.
He notes that variations in protein sources as well as in added fats from batch to batch of milk replacer can lead to unpredictable solids values.
His advice is to be sure to have a really good mixing protocol - especially measuring the milk replacaer powder accurately - he suggests weighing when mixing in volumes other than whole bags.
I will watch carefully in the next few months to see if additional data become available to support those presented by Dr. Vermeire.
By the way, the author makes a point to assure us that this technology, Brix refractometer, continues to be a reliable method of estimating solids in both colostrum and whole milk.
No comments:
Post a Comment