Does Cattle Treatment & Breed Really Matter for Quality Formula Milk?

Parents, we all know milk plays a crucial role in a child’s development – this is driven by the energy and protein content, as well as micronutrients present within milk. In terms of formula milk, while common choices are cow-milk based, there are variants that are soy-based and specialised formulas which cater to specific needs of children, such as allergies.

However, as the more common choice would be cow-based milk, have you properly looked into the quality of milk used in the formula before making your purchase? Yes, we are talking about the actual cattle that brands source from to produce these formulations. 

Did you know that different cow breeds and their diets affect the quality of milk produced? So, to better understand your formula milk’s journey, we have taken a deep dive into understanding how dairy cow breeds, as well as their treatment affect the quality of the milk within our tins.

Different Dairy Cattle Breeds Produce Different Milk

There are different breeds of dairy cows which differ slightly in terms of nutritional content and milk production. Each of these breeds is also favoured for specific dairy products.  

• Holstein-Friesian: Hailing from Holland and Friesland, this cattle breed remains one of the most sought after dairy qualities since 2000 years ago. They are known for their milk-producing abilities, which has a relatively low butterfat content. Their milk yield is between 7,200 and 9,000 kilograms, while on average they produce up to 25 litres of milk per day. 

• Ayrshire: Ayrshire milk is not too rich but yet, has an adequate amount of fat, as well as non-fat solids such as protein. It is usually used in drinking milk. These breeds are known as a moderate butterfat breed, where top producing Ayshires can produce more than 20,000 pounds of milk in their lactations.
• Brown Swiss: Brown Swiss cow milk is most ideal for cheese production due to the fat to protein ratio. This breed can produce over 22,000 pounds of milk during one lactation.
• Guernsey: Research has shown that 60% of Guernseys carry the Kappa Casein ‘B’ gene, which is a benefit in cheese-making as it provides a firmer curd. This breed is also known for their High Milk Flow.
• Jersey: The Jersey breed is known for their milk quality which is rich in protein, minerals and trace elements. Their bodies can also adapt to different climates, environments and management practices.

Proper Cattle Treatment Matters For Production of Quality Milk 

According to research, cattle treatment and diet, among other factors, affect the milk cows produce – cows that are fed a consistent diet within an ideal environment will, in turn, affect the overall performance, as well as quality of their milk production. 

Cows that are farmed specifically to produce milk are treated with a nutritional diet including fatty acids, minerals, vitamins and carbohydrates to ensure quality milk production.  

However, environmental changes such as seasonal periods also affect milk production, such as summertime where there is a reduction in milk, fat and protein concentration due to the hot weather. During these times, farmers may reduce heat stress on cattle with spaces where they can get away from heat exposure such as holding areas, feed bunks and loafing areas. 

Cows Need Monitored and Balanced Nutrition

Like humans, cows need balanced nutrition to ensure their nutritional needs are met and maintain their overall health. Their diet generally includes water, energy (carbohydrates, protein and fats), vitamins, as well as minerals. 

Water is especially crucial for dairy cattle as it helps breakdown the food it consumes and transport the nutrients throughout its body, while helping chemical reactions occur and maintaining their body temperature.

Meanwhile, energy is essential as cows require it for functions including producing milk, while carbohydrates and protein support functions such as digestion, absorption, plus metabolism. Protein, especially, helps supply amino acids, which are an essential component in milk production. 

However, at peak milk production, lactating cows might need between three to 10 times more protein and energy. Nevertheless, just like us, every cow has different needs and their feed values or amounts are specific according to factors such as their weight. 

In brief, cattle management by farmers is imperative as they would need close monitoring and customised feeds to ensure they maintain their health for quality milk production. 

Friso® Gold with NOVAS™ Signature Milk is sourced from Holstein-Friesian cows

The new Friso® Gold formulation uses NOVAS™ Signature Milk is sourced from specially selected premium Holstein-Friesian Cows that are housed in their own farms in the Netherlands. These cows are regularly evaluated on their health and milk composition to ensure they are able to produce the highest quality of milk. 

Moreover, they are fed a customised diet which includes naturally grown rye grass and maize to ensure each cow maintains optimal health in a bid for quality milk.

Additionally, the farmers utilise neck sensors to monitor each cow’s health throughout their daily activities including how many steps they have taken, how long they lie down and how much food they have consumed. With this, they are able to ensure the health of the cattle and produce the high quality NOVAS™ Signature Milk, which consists of small molecules and soft structure to ensure it is easy to digest for children. 

Friso® Gold with NOVAS™ Signature Milk goes through single processing to preserve the milk’s nutrients 

In addition to that, when looking for a formula milk brand, it is best to evaluate if the nutrients are well preserved. This is because a child’s digestive health is very delicate, especially in their early years. Nutrients in their most natural state are much easier to digest, while being less likely to stress your child’s stomach and cause constipation. 

This is why special technology such as Friso® Gold’s LocNutri™ Mild Heat Treatment Technology are used when processing their formula to retain as much nutrients as possible.

Friso® Gold goes through single processing to preserve 90 per cent of nutrients by using mild heat treatment to maintain the natural structures as best as possible.  

In total, there are over 50 essential nutrients in each Friso® Gold tin. These include DHA, AA and Omega-3 and Omega-6 to support fuel learning as well as mental growth, while calcium, protein, vitamins and minerals help your child’s muscle and bone growth. 

Meanwhile, the presence of GOS, Nucleotides and Bifidolactis supports a healthy gut flora to absorb key nutrients and promote a strong defense system. 

New upgraded Friso® Gold now contains no added sucrose or flavour, staying true to the brand’s purpose of providing naturally nutritious formula milk for children’s growth. 

Parents can even experience Friso® Gold’s full formula milk journey by scanning the TrackEasy QR code available at the bottom of their 900g tins. This state of the art application aims to provide parents peace of mind on the authenticity, safety and quality of Friso® Gold products.

So, if you are keen on trying out Friso® Gold with NOVAS™ Signature Milk, visit here for more information. 

Reference:

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