ISSUE FOCUS 38 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE February 2026 with adequate methionine, metabolizable protein, and EAA, energy-corrected milk was 1.6 kg greater in the ration adequate for methionine, metabolizable protein, and EAA (Higgs et al., 2022). This indicates that it is not sufficient to only add in rumen-protected methionine, but instead to have a comprehensive supply of all EAA. Though it is important to note there was a 1.3 kg increase in energy-corrected milk yield when methionine was adequate compared to the base ration that was only adequate in metabolizable energy and was inadequate in metabolizable protein, methionine, and rumen nitrogen. This indicates that there can be a small response when only RPM is added, but a larger response when all metabolizable EAA are adequately supplied, alongside rumen nitrogen. CONCLUSION Precision nutrition represents a powerful opportunity for dairy producers striving for efficiency, sustainability, and optimized performance. Central to this approach is shifting from crude protein-centric feeding to amino acid based formulation, especially through targeted use of rumen protected lysine and methionine. As data technologies advance, ingredient analysis becomes more refined, and nutritional models continue to evolve, the industry will continue moving toward a future where every nutrient counts and every cow receives precisely what she needs to thrive and more fully express her genetic potential. Reference Higgs, R. J., L. E. Chase, C. G. Schwab, B. Sloan, D. Luchini, P. A. LaPierre, M. E. Van Amburgh. 2023. Balancing dairy cattle diets for rumen nitrogen and methionine or all essential amino acids relative to metabolizable energy. J Dairy Sci. 106:1826-1836. About Dr. Laura Niehues Living in the United States in Florida, Dr. Laura Niehues obtained her Bachelors degree in Animal Science from University of Florida and went on to complete a Masters in Equine Nutrition from Kansas State University and a PhD in Dairy Cow Nutrition from University of Illinois. During her PhD, Niehues focused on amino acids during the transition period of dairy cows, specifically rumen-protected lysine. After completing her PhD, she worked as a Technical Services Manager for Novita, working specifically with bypass protein for dairy cows, and for Native Microbials working with rumen microbes and on farm technical support. Currently, Laura Niehues is the Technical Services Specialist for the Eastern United States and Canada at Balchem. She greatly enjoys providing technical support for balancing for amino acids in modern dairy cow rations. Photo: Ground Picture | Shutterstock
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