Q. What are your thoughts on direct-fed microbials (DFMs) to improve rumen efficiency or reduce the chances of acidosis with today's high price of ingredients? Where do you think the price per head per day limit stands? D.F., WISCONSIN A. DFMs could be a possibility with several commercial products on the market. When you evaluate a DFM, ask to review their peer-reviewed and published research. Concerning price, less than 10-cent-per- cow-per-day range may be a target range. You may need a half a pound of milk increase to get that dime back. We'll hear more about the DFMs in the future. - M. F. Hutjens, University of Illinois Click here to return to the Dairy Probiotics E-Sources 110810_499