The Noble Method in the dairy sector as a sustainable production system to improve the nutritional composition of dairy products: A review

Abstract

Sustainable production systems in line with consumer expectations are attractive for the dairy sector. The objective of this review is to examine the benefits of an Italian method, named the Noble Method ('Metodo Nobileâ'), in order to improve the nutritional properties of milk and environmental sustainability. The prohibition of silage and the use of polyphite pastures are some of the rules established by the Noble Method. The greater amount of unsaturated fatty acids and other beneficial compounds found in milk and dairy products produced by using milk from animals fed on wellmanaged pasture could have positive implications on consumers' health.

The “Noble Method®”: A One Health Approach for a Sustainable Improvement in Dairy Farming

“…Furthermore, highly productive dairy cows, resulting from genetic improvements, can no longer rely exclusivelyT on grazing to provide the nutrient supply needed to satisfy milk production [87]. If the pasture is of high quality, the proportion of additional feed decreases, while productivity remains unchanged [88], with the additional benefit of obtaining an improvement in the chemical and nutritional composition of milk [89]. Grazing protects the soil from erosion thanks to the strong root system, so there is a benefit of preserving the eco-systems of permanent meadows and pastures [90].…”

“…Balivo et al [89] reported the health implications of Noble Milk ® consumption for humans. In particular, in this review the importance of the conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) that are principally present in milk and meat of ruminant is analyzed.…”

Veterinary, Economic and Social Aspects of Cattle Welfare: A Review

“…Animal products give energy and are important sources of high-quality proteins, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, and bioactive compounds necessary for human nutrition. Milk, in particular, is called a complete food, with dairy products as a valuable component of a well-balanced diet (Balivo et al, 2023).…”

“…A one-factor animal welfare assessment (such as measuring plasma levels of cortisol and serotonin or measuring heart rate variation) does not cover all aspects of animal welfare. Therefore, the use of multi-indicator evaluation protocols is recommended that include a lot of indicators originally developed and conducted for intensive farming systems (Balivo et al, 2023).…”