The average drop-off in milk quality seen through spring and summer could cut milk price by more than 3 pence per litre, unless action is taken to boost milk fat and protein production - according to KW nutritionist Dr Anna Sutcliffe.

She claims that although some milk quality decline is inevitable, it can be significantly reduced.

Dr Sutcliffe said: "Defra figures show average UK milk fat and proteins drop around 0.2 to 0.3 per cent from their winter peak.

"On some milk supply contracts, that can equate to a loss of up to 3.2 pence per litre.

"As well as the nutrient profile of the diet, any factor that alters feed access, quality or intake can also influence milk quality.

"So start by reviewing feed and herd management to minimise potential limitations, such as trough space, feed spoilage or sub-acute ruminal acidosis."

"In terms of ration changes, additional starch from sodawheat will boost microbial protein production and milk proteins with minimal sub-acute ruminal acidosis risk, whilst high sugar liquid feeds like Molale are an option for housed herds.

"Raise butterfats by increasing energy supply from digestible fibre, including feeds like soya hulls or Traffordgold moist feed and re-formulating rations to improve rumen function.

"Finally, top up with rumen-bypass fat and protein as needed to make sure both yield and milk solids production are fully supported."