Milk Quality
Cows & Buffaloes
Low SNF in Milk — Causes and Feed Correction
Updated 08 Jul 2026 • By Falah Nutrition Desk, Animal Nutrition Advisor
SNF (Solids-Not-Fat — mainly protein, lactose and minerals) is the other major factor dairies test and pay for, alongside fat. Low SNF quietly reduces income even when milk volume looks fine, and it usually points to a protein or energy gap in the diet.
Common Signs
- SNF test consistently below the dairy's or your usual benchmark
- Good milk volume but lower overall payment due to quality deductions
- Animal in good body condition but milk composition still weak
- SNF dropping alongside — or independent of — a milk fat change
Possible Causes
- Insufficient protein or energy in the overall ration relative to milk output
- Poor-quality or overly mature fodder low in digestible protein
- Underfeeding concentrate relative to the animal's actual milk yield
- Water dilution issues at the farm level (less common, but worth ruling out)
What the Farmer Should Check
- Is concentrate feed quantity matched to the animal's actual milk yield, or underfed?
- Is the fodder base reasonably good quality, or old/overly fibrous and low in protein?
- Has milk yield increased recently without a corresponding increase in feed?
- Is the milk being diluted or contaminated with water anywhere in handling?
Feed Guidance
SNF responds well to adequate, correctly-dosed protein and energy feeding — the standard rule of 1 kg concentrate per 2.5 litres of milk plus 1 kg maintenance is the starting point; underfeeding relative to yield is a common cause of low SNF. GOKA Challenger 8000 and GOKA 8000+ are formulated with solids production in mind for mid-to-high yielders, while GOKA Amrit suits higher producers needing stronger overall milk composition. Pair whichever feed matches the animal's yield with reasonable-quality fodder — very old, overly fibrous fodder contributes little usable protein even in large quantities.
Relevant GOKA Products
Dairy Cows & Buffaloes
Cows 20-25 L/day, Buffaloes 12-15 L/day
Bypass protein power for high yielders
High Milk-Yielding Cows & Buffaloes
More than 25 liters/day
High TDN feed for fresh & heavy milkers
Dairy Cows & Buffaloes
15-22 liters/day
Peak milk with high FAT & SNF
When to Contact a Veterinary Doctor
For serious symptoms, consult a qualified veterinary doctor. Feed support can help overall nutrition and recovery but should not replace veterinary treatment.
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