The use of a mathematical programming model for determining optimal nutritional strategy for a dairy cow is described. Mixed Integer Programming (MIP) may be used to fit curvilinear functions, such as the changes in the nutrient requirements of the cow, into a standard mathematical programme. The model determines the optimum level of production and the corresponding feed that should be offered to the cow, under a particular production system. The model showed that the nutritional strategy applied is dependent upon the availability, price and quality of farm-produced roughage or purchased concentrates. Under certain conditions a change in the milk or purchased concentrate price may result in a revised nutritional strategy.