Meta-analysis: Effect of forage and concentrate ratio on reproduction, quality, and quantity of milk in dairy cows

Abstract

Dairy cows require a balanced intake of nutrients from forages and concentrates to support rumen health and optimize milk production. This study used to identify the ideal ratio between forages and concentrates varies depending on the parameters measured. This meta-analysis research used methods by utilizing scientific publications in the form of journals with reproduction parameters including service per conception, calving interval, conception rate, and production parameters including milk production, milk protein, milk fat, milk lactose, and dry matter intake (DMI). This research was completed in April 2025. For milk production, milk fat, lactose, and S/C, a 50:50 ratio is considered most effective, while to increase milk protein content, CI, and CR, a 70:30 ratio is more recommended. The 60:40 ratio increases DMI of dairy cows. The right feed balance is not only important for digestive health but also affects energy efficiency, which in turn impacts milk production and cow reproduction. The study results revealed that applying the 50:50 ratio further improves the production and reproduction parameters of dairy cows.