Fatty Acids & Reproduction Insights to Take into 2026
With reproduction continuing to be the driving force behind herd success and long-term profitability, fatty acid balance is playing an even larger role in supporting the outcomes that matter most. At Virtus Nutrition, we remain focused on providing research-backed clarity around how EPA/DHA omega-3s influence uterine recovery, embryo development, IVF success, and whole-herd performance. These top five pieces from 2025 highlight the insights and conversations that shaped the year and the strategies worth carrying into 2026.
1. Improving Pregnancy Rate Beyond 30 — Is It Worth It?
Today, every time a heifer or cow does not get pregnant the first time, the result is fewer $1000+ beef calves to sell…leaving significant opportunity cost on the table with every failed pregnancy. Read more on improving pregnancy rate here.
2. Dr. Douglas Waterman: Fresh Cow Uterine Recovery Tips
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Dr. Doug Waterman from Virtus Nutrition explains how management and nutritional strategies influence uterine involution and overall reproductive success in dairy cows. He discusses key factors like inflammation control, calving management, and omega-3 supplementation to improve cow health and future productivity. Listen to the full episode here.
3. Feeding EPA/DHA Omega-3 for Improved IVF
This article explores the current data on how EPA/DHA omega-3 improves embryo development and how this essential nutrient can be utilized to improve IVF results for both donor and recipient cattle. Read the full blog here.
4. Victoria Ramos: Fatty Acids in Dairy Cow Diets
In this episode of The Dairy Nutrition Blackbelt Podcast, Victoria Ramos from Cornell University shares the results of a study evaluating the effects of dietary fatty acids on methane emissions and milk production in dairy cows. She explains how different fat sources interact with fiber and starch in both isoenergetic and non-isoenergetic diets. Listen to the full episode here.
5. Top 5: What Embryos Need to Thrive
Whether you’re focused on filling in a gap in your reproductive program, chasing after additional beef x dairy revenue, or creating more replacements to sell, understanding what embryos need is a great step toward improving early embryo development and reproductive outcomes for your herd. Read the full blog here.
