Metabolic diseases are often the indirect cause of high costs in dairy husbandry. Sub-clinically infected animals are not able to achieve their full performance potential, yet appear to be healthy. Around 100 practicing veterinarians listened to the possibilities of early detection in herd management described by the 16 invited speakers. Frank Menn was invited by the responsible manager, Prof. Manfred Fürll, to present the topic „What is ER stress and how can it be influenced?“. In his speech Frank explained about the stress of the endoplasmic reticulum and how it can be influenced positively through feeding. Various trials have proven that plant-derived polyphenols in particular, such as those in Spicemaster CP alpha, show positive effects during periods of high metabolic load. The discussion showed that there is a high level of interest in this topic and corresponding products, but also that there is still need for further research on this exciting subject.