Total Mixed Ration (TMR) has revolutionised Indian dairy farming and around the globe too, offering a multitude of benefits over traditional feeding practices. Here’s why dairy farmers should consider adopting TMR for their herds:
Balanced Nutrition
TMR ensures that each bite of feed contains a balanced mix of forage, grains, protein supplements, vitamins, and minerals. This uniformity guarantees that cows or buffaloes receive consistent nutrition, optimising their health, milk production, and reproductive performance.
Improved Digestibility and Efficiency
By mixing all components together, TMR enhances the digestibility of the feed. The balanced ration promotes better rumen function and nutrient absorption, leading to improved feed efficiency. This means cows can convert feed into milk more effectively, maximising the return on investment.
Reduced Selective Feeding
One of the main drawbacks of traditional feeding is the tendency for cows to select their favorite components, often leading to an imbalanced diet. TMR prevents this selective feeding behavior, ensuring that cows consume all necessary nutrients in the right proportions, which is crucial for their health and productivity.

Enhanced Milk Production and Quality
Cows or Buffaloes fed with TMR typically produce more milk of higher quality. The consistent and balanced nutrient intake supports higher milk yields and improves milk composition, including better fat and protein content. This not only boosts farm profitability but also meets the quality standards demanded by milk processors and consumers.
Simplified Feeding Management
TMR simplifies the feeding process by combining all ingredients into a single ration. This reduces labor and time spent on feeding, allowing farmers to focus on other essential aspects of herd management. It also enables more accurate control over the diet, making it easier to adjust rations based on the herd’s nutritional requirements.
Cost-Effectiveness
The long-term benefits far outweigh the feed costs. Improved feed efficiency, higher milk production, and better herd health lead to significant cost savings. Additionally, TMR can help in reducing feed waste, further enhancing its economic advantages.
Better Herd Health
A well-balanced TMR diet supports overall herd health, reducing the incidence of metabolic disorders, digestive issues, and other health problems associated with poor nutrition. Healthier cows mean lower veterinary costs and less downtime, contributing to the overall sustainability and profitability of the dairy operation.
Conclusion
Switching to TMR from traditional feeding practices can be a game-changer for dairy farmers. By providing balanced nutrition, improving feed efficiency, and enhancing milk production and quality, TMR offers a comprehensive solution that addresses many challenges faced in dairy farming. Investing in TMR not only boosts the productivity and health of the herd but also supports the long-term success and sustainability of the dairy farm.
For more information on how to implement TMR on your farm and the benefits it can bring, contact Truemeal Feeds at sales@fertilegreen.in and our team of experts is here to help you make the transition smoothly and effectively.