Diamond V announced Jan. 4 the launch of its next-generation dairy technology: NutriTek, an advanced nutritional health product for all dairy animals.

NutriTek provides a new level of support for optimal digestive health and balanced immune function, which translates into healthy cows performing to their genetic potential, the company said. NutriTek works with the natural biology of the dairy cow to support:

* Rumen health;

* Dry matter intake in early lactation;

* Maintenance of bodyweight;

* Efficient feed utilization, and

* Milk production over the entire lactation.

"Milk production requires a vast amount of energy and nutrients," Diamond V ruminant product manager Dr. Julia Hamann said. "The cow's body naturally coordinates the use of these resources to support her genetic potential for milk production."

Hamann noted that cows also experience production challenges year-round. These challenges include pregnancy, calving, milk production and environmental stressors, like heat stress.

"Optimal rumen fermentation, digestibility and antioxidant capability make more energy and nutrients available to support milk production and immune health," Hamann said. "By working in synergy with the cow's biology, NutriTek supports her capacity to initiate and manage an appropriate response in the face of any production challenge."

Dr. Curtis Harms, director of North America Dairy at Diamond V, pointed out that advances in dairy genetics, management and nutrition continue to increase the potential for naturally higher milk production.

"However, to reach this potential, dairies need new solutions designed to optimize digestion, stabilize the gastrointestinal environment and help maintain a balanced immune system," Harms added.

Diamond V began developing NutriTek more than five years ago. Purina Animal Nutrition, a key research and business partner of Diamond V, began animal studies in 2011 and was instrumental in bringing the new product to market.

"Today, NutriTek is the newest addition to the Diamond V’s Dairy 365 Program," Harms said. "This next-generation product joins Original XPC and Original XP, which are supported by decades of research validating the benefits of feeding Diamond V Original products and proven every day on dairy farms worldwide."