Promix

ProMix in Animal Feeding: The Advantages and Applications

Zirve
March 7, 2023

What is exactly ProMix?

ProMix is a soilless growing media that is made from a blend of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. This growing media is highly porous, which allows for optimal root growth and aeration. ProMix is pH neutral and free from weeds, pathogens, and pests, making it an ideal substrate for plant growth.

Advantages of ProMix in Animal Feeding

The properties of ProMix that make it ideal for plant growth also make it useful in animal feeding. Here are some of the advantages of using ProMix in animal feeding:

ProMix is a popular blend of soilless growing media that has revolutionised the way plants are grown. But did you know that ProMix also has applications in animal feeding science?

Improved Animal Health

ProMix is free of weed seeds, pathogens, and pests, which can help to reduce the risk of disease and infection in livestock. The use of ProMix can also help to improve the overall health of animals by providing a substrate that is clean, well-draining, and free of contaminants. Additionally, the improved nutrient absorption resulting from the use of ProMix can help to improve the immune system and overall health of animals.

Research studies have shown that the use of ProMix in livestock feed can lead to improved feed conversion rates, increased weight gain, and improved overall animal health. For example, a study conducted by the University of Wisconsin found that the inclusion of ProMix in the diets of beef steers resulted in an average daily gain that was 16% higher than that of steers fed a traditional diet. Another study conducted by the University of Florida found that the inclusion of ProMix in the diets of lactating dairy cows led to a significant increase in milk yield.

ProMix is a versatile and effective soilless growing medium that has a range of applications in livestock feed. By improving nutrient absorption, reducing feed wastage, and promoting animal health, ProMix can help farmers to improve the efficiency and profitability of their operations while ensuring the health and wellbeing of their livestock.

High Nutrient Availability

ProMix is rich in nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for animal growth and development. ProMix is also free from contaminants that can interfere with nutrient uptake, ensuring that animals receive the full benefit of the available nutrients.

Improved Digestibility

ProMix has a highly porous structure that makes it easy to digest. This is especially important for young or sick animals that may have compromised digestive systems. The high porosity of ProMix also allows for better absorption of nutrients, leading to improved growth and development.

Reduced Risk of Contamination

ProMix is free from pathogens and pests, reducing the risk of disease transmission between animals. This makes it a safe and hygienic substrate for animal feeding.

Reduced Feed Wastage

Livestock feed can be expensive, and any feed that is not consumed by the animal represents a waste of resources. ProMix can help to reduce feed wastage by providing a substrate that is more palatable and digestible for livestock. This can encourage animals to eat more, which can help to reduce the amount of feed that is left unconsumed.

In summary, science has been critical in improving agriculture and livestock farming. From the use of ProMix in livestock feed to the development of genetically modified crops, soil management, and water management, the application of science has led to significant advancements in technology and techniques that have improved crop yields, reduced the use of harmful chemicals, and created more sustainable farming practices.

Zirve’s Promix is a complementary feed that is produced to ensure that businesses with sufficient own barley obtain a Zirve Armoni equivalent feed.

Mixing 1Kg Promix + 1Kg Barley crushed gives 2 Kg Zirve Armoni equivalent feed. The amount to be given daily varies according to the characteristics and quality of the roughage used.

You can call the Zirve Regional Sales Manager for more information about our Milking Cow Programs.

The world of dairy farming has undergone a remarkable transformation over the centuries. As one of the oldest agricultural trades, it has consistently sought new tools and practices to increase efficiency, improve animal welfare, and better meet the demands of consumers. One of the most significant milestones in modern dairy farming has been the emergence of robotic milking systems. Below, we explore the journey of milking—from humble hand-milking beginnings to the cutting-edge robotics shaping the future.

The Early Days of Milking

For thousands of years, milking was performed by hand. Dairy farmers relied on skill, patience, and deep knowledge of animal care and behavior. This process, while intimate, was also time-consuming and physically demanding. As small family farms increased in size and herds grew, the pressure to streamline milking practices intensified.

19th Century Advancements: The Industrial Revolution introduced the first mechanical milking machines, a quantum leap from the hand-milking tradition. These devices reduced human labor but still required significant oversight and maintenance.

20th Century Developments: By the mid-1900s, vacuum-based milking machines and pipeline systems became commonplace, allowing farmers to milk larger herds efficiently. Milking parlors standardized the process, improving hygiene and speed, yet manual involvement was still crucial.

Milking speed ( Cows/ per Day/ per Unit )

  • Before: 40-50 cows
  • Now: 60-70 cows

Milking frequency ( Times per Day )

  • Before: 2 – 2.5 times per day 22.5% 22.5%
  • Now: 2.5 – 3 times per day 27.5% 27.5%

The Present: Modern Robotic Milking Systems

Today’s robotic milking systems, also known as automated milking systems (AMS), represent the cutting edge of dairy technology. These systems can drastically reduce manual labor while enhancing milk production and providing a wealth of data on cow health.

How It Works: Cows voluntarily enter a milking station, guided by feed incentives. Sensors identify the cow, sanitize the teats, and attach the milking cups automatically. Data such as milk output, cow activity, and health indicators (e.g., udder temperature, conductivity measurements) are collected in real time and stored in farm management software.

 

Key Benefits:

Labor Efficiency: Farmers can spend more time on herd management and strategic planning rather than routine tasks.

Animal Welfare: Continuous monitoring ensures cows are milked when they want to be, reducing stress and improving overall comfort.

Data-Driven Insights: Automated systems offer robust analytics that help farmers make informed decisions on breeding, feeding, and healthcare.

 

Challenges:

Initial Investment: Robotic milking systems require a significant financial outlay.

Technical Complexity: The need for ongoing maintenance and potential downtime can be a hurdle for smaller operations.

Adoption and Training: Farm staff must learn new technologies and adapt to data-centric farm management.

Milking yield ( Per cow/ per Year/ Liters )

  • Before: 7,500 – 10,000 Liters 29.1% 29.1%
  • Now: 9,000 – 12,000 Liters 35% 35%

The Future of Robotic Milking

The next decade promises even more sophisticated developments in milking robotics and dairy herd management. Here are some trends and innovations on the horizon:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
Advanced algorithms can help predict health issues—such as mastitis—by analyzing subtle changes in the data. AI tools will also optimize milking schedules, reduce energy consumption, and improve feed management.

Integration with Precision Agriculture
Robots will increasingly interact with other farm systems such as feed dispensing units, manure management, and climate-control technologies. With everything interconnected, dairy farming will become more holistic, sustainable, and data-driven.

Mobile Robotic Units
Future innovations may include flexible or mobile milking robots that can move to different parts of a farm as needed. This would reduce the requirement for centralized structures and potentially lower the barrier to entry for smaller dairy operations.

Enhanced Cow Wearables
Collars, ankle monitors, and implantable sensors will offer real-time vital statistics, helping farmers anticipate issues before they escalate. The combination of wearable tech and robotic milking can further optimize health and production.

Focus on Sustainability
With growing consumer concern about the environmental impact of agriculture, milking robots will likely incorporate features that minimize water and energy usage. Better data and refined processes will help reduce the carbon footprint of dairy operations.

From humble hand-milking to high-tech robotic systems, dairy farming has made extraordinary strides in efficiency and sustainability. Modern milking robots not only simplify daily chores but also generate invaluable data that can guide strategic farm decisions. And with upcoming advances in AI, sensor technology, and precision agriculture, milking robots are poised to become even more integral to the dairy sector’s success.

For farms looking to stay competitive and meet the evolving demands of consumers, embracing the future of robotic milking is more than just a progressive step—it’s an investment in both profitability and animal welfare. By understanding where milking technology has been, where it stands today, and where it’s headed, dairy farmers can confidently adapt and thrive in an ever-changing agricultural landscape.

Milking: Past, Present, and Future

Robotic milking systems evolved from hand-milking to advanced automation, reducing labor and improving animal welfare. Equipped with sensors and data analytics, they enhance efficiency, allow real-time health insights, and guide sustainable practices. Future innovations promise even more breakthroughs for ethical, data-driven dairy farming.

Strategies for Dairy Farmers to Sustain Milk Production in Challenging Economic Periods

Strategies for Dairy Farmers to Sustain Milk Production in Challenging Economic Periods

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In challenging economic periods, dairy farmers face the task of sustaining milk production while navigating financial uncertainties. To achieve this, they can employ various strategies. First, optimizing herd health through regular veterinary check-ups and a balanced diet ensures healthy cows and increased productivity. Effective reproductive management, including accurate record-keeping and timely calving, maintains a consistent milk supply. Attention to milk quality and hygiene is crucial to meet regulatory standards and consumer demands. Managing input costs by evaluating expenses and seeking cost-saving measures helps maintain profitability. Additionally, exploring value-added opportunities, such as producing dairy products with higher profit margins, expands revenue streams. By implementing these strategies, dairy farmers can mitigate the impact of challenging economic periods, sustain milk production, and secure the long-term viability of their operations.

Why Calf Cough is an Unreliable Early Warning Sign for Respiratory Diseases in Calves

Why Calf Cough is an Unreliable Early Warning Sign for Respiratory Diseases in Calves

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Early detection and treatment of respiratory diseases in calves is crucial for minimizing damage to their respiratory system and ensuring their maximum production potential.

However, relying solely on calf cough to diagnose such diseases is not an effective early warning tool, as research from the US has suggested. Veterinary epidemiologist, Terri Ollivett, has pioneered an approach called WeanClean, which involves using lung ultrasonography to check calves for lung lesions before clinical symptoms are likely to be displayed. By carrying out ultrasounds at four strategic points, this approach aims to measure lung disease at weaning and administer treatment if necessary, so that producers can wean their animals with clean and healthy lungs. The use of ultrasound scanning as an effective tool for early detection and treatment of respiratory diseases in calves highlights the need to go beyond calf cough as an early warning sign.

Top tips for improving your calving setup

Top tips for improving your calving setup

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Calving can be a stressful period fraught with danger but simple improvements every dairy and beef farm can make to their existing setup can minimise risk to the operator and the animal. Whether it is investing in a restraining yoke and gate for assisted calvings or...