Researchers in UW–Madison’s Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences identified a critical gap in research infrastructure: the lack of an advanced rumen simulation system capable of replicating the digestive environment of dairy cattle. Without this technology, researchers have had to rely on costly, time-intensive animal trials or simpler laboratory methods that cannot fully capture the complexity of rumen fermentation. This limitation reduced opportunities to conduct early-stage testing of feeds, additives, and nutritional strategies designed to improve dairy cow health, productivity, and sustainability.

Through Dairy Innovation Hub funding, UW–Madison acquired a Rumen Simulation Technique (RUSITEC) platform, creating the university’s first dedicated artificial rumen research system. The equipment allows researchers to study digestion, feed efficiency, methane production, nutrient use, and microbial activity under controlled conditions before moving to animal trials. This investment strengthens research focused on improving dairy cow health and welfare, reducing environmental impacts, enhancing feed efficiency, and supporting the development of innovative nutrition technologies that will benefit Wisconsin dairy producers and the broader dairy industry.