Milk fatty acid profile in dairy cows during a negative energy balance in early lactation and feed-restriction in mid-lactation

Besides diet, mainly lactational stage along with energy balance in dairy cows have an impact on fatty acid (FA) profile in cow’s milk. During the first couple of weeks after parturition, the occurrence of a negative energy balance (NEB) is a common phenomenon observed in dairy cows. The deficiency of nutrients and energy is compensated by mobilization of body reserves, predominantly adipose tissue associated with the release of FA. During insufficient supply and quality of feed, a NEB may also occur later in lactation.