Economic values for milk production and composition traits in the South and Southeast regions of Brazil

Abstract Text:

Economic values (EV) for milk, protein and fat productions, (MY, PY, FY, respectively) were obtained to compose an economic index to be used in an international genetic evaluation program of Holstein cattle used in the commercial dairy population in Brazil, taking into account the main milk production systems (MPS) prevailing in the South and Southeast regions. Seven MPS were defined based on the feeding management and production level of herds. EV were calculated from the marginal differences between revenues and costs, for the interest of maximizing profit, assuming a stabilized herd. Average economic values (US$) for MY, PY and FY were, 0.28, 3.54 and 1.07, respectively. Changes observed in the last years in the milk market in Brazil have made selection for milk components economically advantageous. 

Keywords:

Dairy cattle

Economic values

Production circumstances