Production and economic analysis of milk from goats fed with double-distilled glycerin

Abstract The objective of this research was to evaluate the production, milk quality, consumption and financial analysis of milk from goats consuming diets with different levels of double-distilled glycerin. Twelve multiparous Saanen goats, weighing 40 ± 6 kg and 30 ± 5 days of lactation, kept in a confinement system for 60 days were used. The goats were randomly distributed in a Latin square (4 x 4), according to the levels of double-distilled glycerin. The ingredients used were tifton hay, ground corn grain, soybean meal, vitamin/mineral supplement, urea, and double-distilled glycerin levels (0, 6, 12 and 18%) to replace corn in the diets. The milk fat of goats fed with double-distilled glycerin in the diet showed a decreasing linear regressive effect (P = 0.001). Dry matter intake showed a quadratic regressive effect (P = 0.033). Evaluating the total cost of each diet, it was observed that the level containing 0% glycerin was the diet with the lowest cost per kilogram. The use of double-distilled glycerin in the feeding of dairy goats can be recommended up to the level of 18% of corn replacement without harming milk production, however, it is necessary to verify the economic viability, considering that there will be losses in the quality of the milk produced.