Alternatives to soya for dairy cows: What are the alternatives to soya for dairy cows?

Soybean meal is considered the gold standard for supporting high milk yields in dairy cows. However, it is falling out of favour with milk processors, consumers and dairy farmers for many reasons. Environmental concerns around how imported soybean is produced, a desire to reduce the carbon footprint of milk, and pressure from milk buyers means that farmers are looking at alternatives. This practice note discusses the reasoning behind seeking alternatives and the nutritional considerations to bear in mind when formulating dairy cow rations without soya.