What is MCP?

Intestinal digestible Microbial Protein (MCP) is the fraction of microbial protein that can be digested in the small intestine. This protein originates from microbes in the rumen and is an essential source of amino acids for ruminants. The amino acid profile of microbial protein closely matches the requirements for milk protein synthesis, making MCP highly valuable in dairy production..

Why it matters

MCP plays a critical role in meeting the animal’s protein needs. It provides high-quality amino acids that support growth, maintenance, and milk production. Because microbial protein is efficiently utilised by the animal, it is a cornerstone of the intestinal digestible protein system. Accurate estimation of MCP ensures balanced rations and optimal feed efficiency.

Calculation

The amount of MCP is calculated based on:

• The microbial protein synthesised in the rumen
• The digestibility of that microbial protein

In the current intestinal digestible protein system (2007), it is assumed that:

• Microbial protein consists of 75% amino acids
• 85% of these amino acids are digested

MCP is part of the overall intestinal digestible protein formula:

Intestinal digestible protein (DVE)= Intestinal digestible bypass protein + MCP – MFP

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