Feeding mixed corn plant and different levels of tomato pomace silage and its effect on performance of Holstein cows

In this research, chemical composition and effect of feeding mixed corn silage with different levels of tomato pomace on performance of Holstein dairy cows were investigated. Nine multiparous Holstein cows (DIM 65±19 d and 31.3±3.5 milk production Kg/d) were allocated in a 3*3 change over design. The experiment was consisted of three periods of 21 days and each experimental period was consisted of 14 days for adaptation and 7 days of sampling. Treatments were 1) control (containing corn silage without tomato pomace, 2) containing corn silage with 7.5% tomato pomace, 3) containing corn silage with 15% tomato pomace. Dry matter intake was not affected by treatments. The addition of tomato pomace to corn on ensiling decreased apparent digestibilities of crude protein and NDF (P<0.05). Digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, ADF, rumen pH, BUN and blood glucose were not affected by treatments. However, blood total protein were different between treatments (P<0.05). Also, by increasing the level of tomato pomace in corn silage, milk production, milk protein and fat percentages, MUN and milk NPN and milk production efficiency were not affected by treatments. In conclusion, adding tomato pomace up to 15% to corn on ensiling, due to its nutritive value, decreases the costs of production without any negative effect on dairy cattle performance.