Milk Replacer – The Perfect Mix

When it comes to mixing a batch of milk replacer, consistency is highly important. Following these tips will help ensure you do not run into any mixing issues such as clumping:

1. It is recommended to measure milk powder using a scale for each feeding OR at a minimum each new skid or product lot should be measured to be sure you are not over or under feeding young animals – consistency is key.
2. Be sure to have proper cleaning protocols in place for mixing and feeding equipment to decrease bacteria load within the drinking environment.
3. Pay attention to mixing temperature. Excessively high temperatures can lead to proteins migrating away from the fat droplets causing the fat particles to join together, rising to the top of the mixture. Another possible scenario would be that proteins remain attached to the fat droplets but aggregate together in high temperatures causing clumping of the protein/ fat globules. See recommended temps below.

On the flip side, using too low of a temperature can lead to reduced solubility of the milk powder.

4. It is recommended to measure milk powder using a scale for each feeding OR at a minimum each new skid or product lot should be measured to be sure you are not over or under feeding young animals – consistency is key.
5. Be sure to have proper cleaning protocols in place for mixing and feeding equipment to decrease bacteria load within the drinking environment.

Manual Mixing Instructions for Mapleview Agri milk replacer products:

1. First determine the total number of litres of milk to be fed.
2. Measure half of this volume as hot water (50-60 degree C max).
3. To determine the total amount of powder needed: use a scale and weigh 130g or 150g times the number of litres of milk to be fed. (eg.15L of milk requires 15 x 130g which equals 2kg of powder.)
4. Add this milk replacer to the hot water and mix until dissolved.
5. Add the remaining water to obtain the total desired volume, aiming for a final drinking temperature of 40-44 C. Re-mix prior to feeding. It is helpful to mark the number of litres on the side of the pail or mixing barrel to measure the water volume.

Note* 150g per L is the recommended winter feeding rate, however some producers find they have better results feeding 150g all year long.