Coopernova, a dairy cooperative based in the northern region of Mato Grosso, Brazil, is setting a new standard in milk production by incorporating dried distillers grains (DDG) into the feeding regimen of its herds. This innovative practice, implemented in 2017, has yielded remarkable results, according to Milton Dalmolin, the vice president of Coopernova.
With approximately 1,000 dairy producers under its umbrella, Coopernova collects an impressive 40-49 million litres of milk annually in the Terra Nova do Norte municipality. The cooperative’s decision to introduce dry and wet DDG into animal feed, sourced from FS company, has proven to be a game-changer with a 20% inclusion rate in the herd’s total diet.
### DDG Positive Impact
The benefits of incorporating DDG into the feed are manifold, with a significant reduction in production costs being one of the key advantages, especially during periods of fluctuating soybean and maize prices. As part of its ongoing efforts, Coopernova has initiated a direct delivery program of wet DDG to producers’ properties. In the years 2022-2023 alone, an impressive 7,500 tonnes of wet DDG were distributed for dairy cows, alongside 1,800 tonnes of dry DDG, amounting to a total of 9,000-10,000 tonnes annually.
According to Dalmolin, the use of wet or dried DDG has had a profound impact on milk production, nearly doubling the output from 10 to 18 litres per animal per day. The effectiveness of this supplement varies based on factors such as the stage and breed of the animals, with the Girolanda breed being predominant, complemented by Jersey and Holstein varieties.
### Feed Management
Aside from the evident increase in production, the practicality of handling DDG is another significant benefit highlighted by Dalmolin. Wet DDG, in particular, can be easily stored on the property, covered with a tarp, and maintained in optimal condition for up to six months. This ease of storage ensures that even producers without dedicated warehouses can adopt this practice seamlessly.
The proximity to the industry plays a crucial role in enhancing efficiency, with the cost of wet DDG standing at €0.06 per kg, significantly lower than the expenses incurred in procuring soybean and maize meals, with superior performance to boot. Moreover, wet DDG comes enriched with maize oil, offering a high energy content that benefits the animals’ overall health and productivity.
### The Road Ahead
Looking ahead, Dalmolin envisions a bright future for dairy farming with the widespread adoption of DDG/DDGS among producers. He believes that this innovative approach has the potential to reignite interest among farmers who had previously abandoned dairy farming due to cost constraints.
Coopernova has carved a niche for itself in the dairy industry, boasting a daily milk production of 200,000 litres earmarked for cheese and other dairy product manufacturing. Additionally, the cooperative holds the distinction of being the sole entity in Mato Grosso dedicated to powdered milk production, churning out 300,000 litres per day to cater primarily to markets in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais.
In conclusion, Coopernova’s success story stands as a testament to the transformative power of innovation and strategic decision-making in the dairy sector. By embracing new feeding practices like DDG, the cooperative has not only improved its production efficiency but has also opened up opportunities for farmers to thrive in a competitive market landscape. As the dairy industry continues to evolve, it is evident that embracing change and staying ahead of the curve are crucial for long-term sustainability and growth in this dynamic sector.
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