Role of feed acids and buffers in ruminant diets; name common buffers.

• A. Stabilize rumen pH to prevent acidosis.
• B. Provide vitamins.
• C. Digest starch.
• D. Increase energy density.

Answer: (A)

Rumen health hinges on keeping the fermentation environment from becoming too acidic. Feed acids and buffers work to stabilize rumen pH by neutralizing the excess hydrogen ions produced during microbial fermentation, especially when high-grain diets push acid production upward. This stability supports the rumen’s microbial population and fiber digestion, reducing the risk of acidosis.

Common buffers are compounds that resist pH changes in the rumen, typically bicarbonate- or phosphate-based. Examples include sodium bicarbonate, sodium carbonate, calcium carbonate, magnesium oxide, and phosphate buffers like disodium phosphate. These substances release basic ions that offset the acidity from volatile fatty acids and lactic acid, helping maintain a healthier pH range (roughly around 6 to 7).

The other options don’t capture this primary role. Vitamins are nutrients for metabolic functions, starch digestion is a direct digestive process, and increasing energy density relates to feed energy content, not the pH-stabilizing action of buffers.