B8444 - Milk Production and Composition

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, the student: knows the differences in milk composition among various livestock species, as well as between milk and colostrum; knows the patterns and shapes of lactation curves in different livestock species and categories, and the primary factors that influence these variations; is able to assess colostrum quality, is able to read and interpret lactation curves in practical contexts.

Course contents

This course is part of the Integrated Course Reproduction and Lactation.

Specific contents:

Milk and Colostrum (2 hours)

• Composition of milk and colostrum in different livestock species.
• Factors affecting milk and colostrum quality.

Lactation Performance (2 hours)

• Lactation curves in different livestock species.
• Factors affecting milk production and lactation performance.

Milking Systems (2 hours)

• Conventional and automatic milking systems.
• Milking management and its effects on milk quality.

Practical Applications (2 hours)

• Colostrum management (collection, quality assessment, storage and feeding).
• Interpretation of lactation curves and production records.

The practical session will focus on the assessment of milk quality and milking procedures and will take place at the AUB dairy farm and the DIMEVET laboratories.

Readings/Bibliography

The professor will make the teaching materials presented during lectures available to students.

Teaching methods

The course includes both theoretical lectures and practical sessions (breeding establishments, training centres and animal shows).

Considering the types of activities and teaching methods adopted, attendance for this course requires the successful completion of Modules 1 and 2 via e-learning, and Module 3 on health and safety training in study environments. Information about the schedule and access to Module 3 is available in the dedicated section of the Degree Program website.

Participation in practical and laboratory sessions requires wearing a lab coat and appropriate footwear. Suitable personal protective equipment (PPE), such as disposable latex gloves, will be provided as needed.

Assessment methods

Assessment methods

The assessment for the Integrated Course “REPRODUCTION AND LACTATION” consists of a written examination including 40 multiple-choice questions, distributed as follows:

10 questions (2 CFU) on Systematic and topographical veterinary anatomy of the male and female reproductive system and mammary gland;

10 questions (2 CFU) on Physiology of reproduction, mammogenesis, lactogenesis and galactopoiesis;

10 questions (2 CFU) on Imaging of the male and female genital tract and mammary gland, andrology and semen evaluation, estrous and pregnancy monitoring;

5 questions (1 CFU) on Obstetrics, first care of the newborn, and passive transfer of immunity;

5 questions (1 CFU) on Milk production and composition.

Each correct answer is worth 1 point. No points are deducted for incorrect or unanswered questions. A minimum score of 24/40 is required to pass the examination.

No supplementary materials or electronic devices (e.g., calculators, tablets, smartwatches, or computers) may be used during the examination, except for those explicitly authorized by the instructor.

The final grade is awarded according to the following conversion scale:

scoring 24: grading 18

scoring 25: grading 19

scoring 26: grading 20

scoring 27: grading 21

scoring 28: grading 22

scoring 29: grading 23

scoring 30: grading 24

scoring 31: grading 25

scoring 32: grading 26

scoring 33–34: grading 27

scoring 35–36: grading 28

scoring 37–38: grading 29

scoring 39: grading 30

scoring 40: grading 30L

Negative results are not graded numerically but are recorded as "withdrawn" or "failed" in the AlmaEsami electronic transcript and do not affect the student's academic record.

Grades will be published on the AlmaEsami platform within 5 working days after the examination.

Students may reject once the final grade (University teaching regulations ART. 16, paragraph 5) by informing the course examiner via email within 5 working days.

The designated course contact for this course is Prof. Maurizio Mazzoni

Students can register for exams through the AlmaEsami platform (http://almaesami.unibo.it/ ). Exams are scheduled during the designated periods in the academic calendar. Additional sessions are available for students beyond the standard program duration.

Students with learning disorders and/or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

With regard to the learning assessment, the use of AI is prohibited. Any use of AI constitutes a breach of academic integrity.

The recording teacher is Prof. Maurizio Mazzoni.

Teaching tools

PC slides, internet, AUB dairy farm and the DIMEVET laboratories.

The professor is always available to provide further clarification. Students are kindly requested to arrange an appointment by email.

Office hours

See the website of Giovanna Martelli