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For more information, please contact the FeedLine on
01278 444829 or email info@molevalleyfarmers.com.

Nutrition

Required levels of performance is a vital part of planned beef production.

Effective rationing depends on accurate estimates of energy, protein, mineral and vitamin requirements, the nutrient content of feeds and feed intake. The challenge is to meet the animal’s requirements for a particular phase of growth at the optimum feed cost. Nutrient supply is critical.

Key considerations are as follows:

  • Determine the metabolisable energy (ME) requirement Ensure adequate ME is supplied
  • Predict the dry matter intake (DMI) DMI is influenced by many factors
  • Maximise rumen microbial protein production.  Ensure a balanced supply of fermentable carbohydrate (e.g. molasses, cereals) and rumen available protein (e.g. rape meal, urea)
  • The requirement for digestible undegradable protein is highest in rapidly growing young cattle.  Consider specialist protected protein sources and feed products specified to this nutrient
  • An adequate supply of structural fibre (e.g. straw) is necessary.  Consider the physical composition of the diet carefully
  • Feed the appropriate level of starch (e.g. cereals) according to the growth phase and breed.  Consider the impact on rumen function and dry matter intake
  • Adequate mineral, trace element and vitamin supply is crucial. Some attempts to reduce inputs can be costly

 


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