Abstract

Heifers (756 lb, 312 head) were used in a finishing study to evaluate the effects of peroxide-treated feather meal on animal performance and carcass characteristics. Diets contained 3.0% of peroxide-treated or untreated feather meal, and were fed ad libitum. Treatment of feather meal with hydrogen peroxide increased in situ protein degradabilities by 56%, but did not significantly alter feed intake or feed efficiencies. Although not statistically different, gains were 2.1% greater for heifers fed peroxide-treated feather meal. Hot carcass weights also averaged 6 pounds heavier for heifers fed diets containing peroxide-treated feather meal. Marbling tended to be lower, but carcasses grading USDA Choice tended to be higher for heifers fed diets containing peroxide-treated feather meal.

Keywords: Cattlemen's Day, 2002, Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station contribution, no. 02-318-S, Report of progress (Kansas State University. Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service), 890, Beef, Peroxide, Feather meal, Finishing cattle

How to Cite:

Löest, C., Coetzer, C., Titgemeyer, E. C. & Drouillard, J. S., (2002) “Peroxide treatment of feather meal for finishing cattle”, Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Reports 1(1), 40-42. doi: https://doi.org/10.4148/2378-5977.1700