Michigan Dairy Gains from High Oleic Soybeans

By Andi Anderson

The Michigan Alliance for Animal Agriculture (M-AAA) has strengthened ties between Michigan’s animal agriculture industries and Michigan State University (MSU) for nearly a decade. By connecting producers with researchers, the group identifies industry needs and supports projects that deliver practical results.

One standout project focuses on high oleic soybeans and their effect on dairy cow performance. MSU professor Dr. Adam Lock has studied the role of dietary fatty acids in milk production for years. With funding from M-AAA, the Michigan Milk Producers Association, and the United Soybean Board, Dr. Lock tested whether feeding cows soybeans rich in oleic acid could improve milk fat and protein.

The findings were clear: high oleic soybeans increased milk yields and improved components while lowering feed costs. Michigan seed suppliers quickly sold out of the special soybean seed as farmers saw the value. Roasting the soybeans before feeding them provided even greater benefits, offering a simple way to boost production and profitability.

Industry professionals have witnessed the results firsthand. Former MSU doctoral student Dr. Alycia Bales, now with Caledonia Farmers Elevator, and Charlie Kunisch of Vita Plus guide producers in using these soybeans to enhance herd performance.

Fourth-generation farmer Brian Preston of Quincy, Michigan, planted the soybeans after learning about the research. His 1,000-cow Preston Dairy soon saw higher milk production and reduced feeding expenses, confirming the promise of this crop.

“High oleic soybeans offer a rare win-win: they improve milk components and reduce feed cost, while also supporting local crop production. That’s the kind of integrated impact we strive for in our research,” said Dr. Lock. “Continued support for applied research like this is essential. It’s how we turn promising ideas into real-world solutions for Michigan farmers.”

The success shows how cooperation among farmers, researchers, and industry can turn innovative ideas into real solutions. Michigan dairy producers now have a proven way to strengthen their operations and their bottom line through science-based practices.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski