Application of Nonlinear Programming in the Field of Animal Nutrition : A Problem to Maximize the Milk Yield in Cow

Abstract

Dairy operations have a variety of resources and objectives, in which maximization of milk yield is an important one. A challenge exists in developing nutrition programs for this objective. The total yield of milk constitutes is influenced by the level of nutrition used in the diet. Thus the goal is to attain higher milk production by the efficient use of nutrient ingredients, which also satisfies National Research recommendations. A diet model based on NRC recommendations is significantly nonlinear for feed ingredients and milk yield of the animal. The nonlinear model is introduced to maximize the milk yield in cow by the optimal use of feed ingredients. Data from the national research Institute, Karnal (Haryana) is fitted to nonlinear objective function expression of milk yield of the cow in terms of feed ingredients. NRC requirements are introduced as constraints into equivalent equations. Thus the proposed study in this paper is an attempt to develop a nonlinear programming model for optimal planning and best use of nutrient ingredients for the maximization of milk yield in cow. Ration formulation principles and nutrient requirements were used in development of feeding programs. Optimizing DMI, DCP and TDN are key factors in meeting tissue nutrient demands in this formulation process.

Keywords : Nonlinear programming, Nutrient Ingredients, Milk Yield, Feed Formulation, Feeding Standards.

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