Comparative Evaluation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Saccharomyces siccum as a Feed Supplement on Production Performance of Crossbred Cows

-A feeding trial was conducted in eight cows to compare the effect of supplementing commercial yeast species Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Saccharomyces siccum on milk yield and its composition. Cows were randomly assigned to one of the two treatment groups consisting four animals each. Commecial yeast granules were added at the rate of 25 g /cow / day to the concentrate feed in the afternoon for a period of one month. Daily milk yields were recorded and milk samples were analysed for its composition from five days before supplementation until five days after withdrawing the supplementation. A significant increase (p<0.05) in milk yield, mean milk fat, protein and total solids content was observed in both the treatment groups during supplementation of yeast when compared to the pre supplementation value. Both the treatments showed positive effect on milk yield, fat, protein and total solids content of milk. The positive effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae was noted even after withdrawal of supplementation indicating the colonization and establishment of the yeast in the rumen environment. Whereas the milk yield and other positive effects of Saccharomyces siccum was seen only during the period of supplementation and after withdrawal of yeast supplementation all the parameters returned to pre supplementation value, thus the effect of Saccharomyces siccum is only temporary. It is concluded that supplementation Saccharomyces cerevisiae to cows in early lactation have more beneficial effect in terms of higher yield and total solids in milk than Saccharomyces siccum.