Archives of Current Research International

Inadequate nutrition adversely affects growth, leads to delayed puberty, decreases reproductive efficiency, and results in lower milk production. The early stages of lactation typically involve a negative energy balance (NEB) due to increased nutrient requirements for milk production. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of palm stearin (PS) supplementation, alone and in combination with sodium bicarbonate, on milk production, milk composition, and serum biochemical and lipid profiles of post-partum crossbred lactating cows. The study was carried out on 120 post-partum lactating crossbred Vrindavani cattle using palm stearin (PS)-supplemented feed at the Livestock Production and Management Section, ICAR-IVRI, Izatnagar. Three dietary treatments were formulated: control (T₀), concentrate containing 8% palm stearin (T₁), and concentrate containing 8% palm stearin along with 1% sodium bicarbonate (T₂), offered with wheat straw and green fodder. Data were analysed by two-way ANOVA to compare the main effects of treatment and period and their interaction on the serum biochemical profile.  Results indicated that palm stearin supplementation significantly improved milk yield, fat yield, and milk fat percentage,  with the highest values observed in T₂. Serum biochemical parameters remained within normal physiological limits across treatments, indicating no adverse metabolic effects. Serum total cholesterol was significantly higher in the palm stearin-supplemented groups, while other lipid fractions remained unaffected. Overall, palm stearin supplementation, particularly in combination with sodium bicarbonate, enhanced lactation performance without compromising metabolic health in post-partum crossbred lactating cows.