The present invention relates to polymorphisms indicative of altered milk fatty acid composition in female milk-producing cattle. In particular, the present invention provides methods for selecting a cattle which possesses a genotype which in female milk-producing cattle is indicative of a desired milk fatty acid composition and cattle selected by said method. Further, the present invention provides milk produced by the female milk-producing cattle, methods for selective breeding and non-human gametes. Use of a nucleic acid molecule or an oligonucleotide in an in vitro method for determining the presence of at least one allele, which in a female milk-producing cattle is indicative of a desired milk fatty acid composition, is also part of the present invention.

Methods for using water-soluble salts of fatty acids alone, or in chosen combinations with chelating agents, antifreeze compounds, and water for improving the processing of feed materials including whole grains or finely-divided ingredients, which may contain grain, that are mechanically processed, are described. The fatty acid salts may be added to water or to steam prior to application to feed materials, and may be applied directly to the feed materials, or added to grain conditioners known in the art to improve their performance. Treated feed materials have improved lubricity, and thin, strong durable flakes having less bulk density, and durable hard pellets, may be generated with reduced fines. Addition of an anti-freeze material permits the resulting compositions to remain fluid under freezing conditions, while oxidation or spoilage, may be reduced by adding a chelating agent. The solutions are basic and are non-corrosive.