NEWS 16 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE January 2026 Environmental variables, global trade volatility and changing consumer preferences have made forecasting future dairy production a fast-moving target. According to Dr. Richard Kirkland, Global Technical Manager for Volac Wilmar Feed Ingredients, rumen-protected fat supplements, which have long been included in lactation rations as an energy source, are a valuable tool when fed strategically for dairy producers needing to remain agile to hit individual milk contract premiums. “This all comes down to the fatty acid composition and the effect an individual fatty acid has on a specific area of cow performance based on where she is in the lactation cycle,” Dr. Kirkland explains. “Unlike other feed ingredients, rumen-protected fat supplements are not a one-and-done nutrient – they are multi-purpose and can realise a significant return on investment.” While there are five main fatty acids commonly found in ruminant diets, C16:0 (palmitic acid) and C18:1 (oleic acid) typically have the highest inclusion rate in rumen-protected fat supplements, with varying ratios of each one to target specific effects in the dairy cow. C16:0 induces insulin resistance to increase the partitioning of nutrients to milk, which in turn improves milk and milk fat production, says Dr. Kirkland. This makes it ideal for mid to late lactation. In contrast, C18:1 increases insulin, which increases the partitioning of nutrients to improve body condition. C18:1 also improves the digestibility of total diet fat, which increases energy supply and feed efficiency. This fatty acid has also been proven to boost fertility by promoting egg and embryo development, making it beneficial in early lactation, says Dr. Kirkland. Read more>> World Finance announced that VetosEurope was named 'Best Company for Decarbonisation in the Beef Industry' in the World Finance Carbon Awards 2025. The recognition highlights the company's position in advancing sustainable livestock agriculture through its pioneering initiatives in methane mitigation and carbon credit development. VetosEurope was adjudged the winner for demonstrating outstanding leadership in decarbonisation within one of the world's most emissions-intensive industries. World Finance praised the company's combination of scientific rigour, proven impact, commercial traction, and next-generation innovation, making VetosEurope a benchmark for methane reduction in livestock systems. Central to the award decision was VetosEurope's flagship solution, Anavrin, which has reportedly delivered measurable and verifiable methane reduction. Peer-reviewed trials confirmed that Anavrin achieved a 13 percent decrease in methane yield in ewes and in dairy cows, and up to 17 percent in beef cattle, compared to control diets. This result was applauded by the panel for its significance and real-world applicability. VetosEurope also earned recognition for its partnership with Rete Clima and Climit, strengthening industry-wide efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the livestock supply chain. According to the announcement, the collaboration demonstrates the company's commitment to both scientific excellence and sustainable impact. Read more>> Dr. Kirkland: Right rumen-protected fat offer new opportunities for dairy farmers VetosEurope awarded for methane reduction initiatives Photo: Volac Wilmar Feed Ingredients Photo: Freepik
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