Application of an automated enzymatic technique for the determination of non-esterified fatty acids in bovine blood.

An enzymatic method for the measurement of non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations in blood was applied to samples from dairy cows. The method was carried out on a discrete analyser and showed considerable savings over other methods, particularly in time. The precision of the method was very high and the accuracy was good within normal concentration ranges when compared with an extraction reference method. Using this enzymatic method, it is possible to measure NEFA concentrations in bovine serum or plasma on a routine basis. The results will be of particular value in assessing the metabolic and nutritional status of cows in the post parturient period.