Randomised Complete Block Design on Biyinzika Dairy Meal Supplementation and Physicochemical Properties of Milk Quality in Uganda’s South-Western Cattle Corridor

Background Milk produced in Uganda’s South-Western Cattle Corridor (SWCC) is often of low quality due to reliance on nutritionally poor natural pastures. Despite the potential benefits, feed supplementation remains uncommon in this region. This study aimed to assess the effect of Biyinzika Dairy Meal (BDM) supplementation on physicochemical parameters of milk quality and dairy cow body condition scores. Results A total of 60 dairy cows were randomly assigned to three treatment groups in a randomised complete block design and fed varying amounts of BDM for 30 days. Physicochemical milk parameters and body condition scores (BCS) were measured before, during, and after supplementation. Baseline BCS did not differ significantly between groups, but supplemented cows showed significant improvement during and after the trial (p < 0.05). Milk fat, solid non-fat content, density, and protein levels increased significantly with supplementation (p < 0.05), while lactose, salts, and pH showed no significant changes. Conclusions Feed supplementation with BDM improved selected physicochemical properties of milk and enhanced body condition scores of dairy cows in the SWCC. These findings highlight the potential of formulated feed supplements to improve the quality of milk and support farmer livelihoods in regions dependent on natural pastures. Wider adoption of supplementation and exploration of local feed alternatives may further enhance physicochemical milk quality parameters and market value.