Abstract

Steam flaking is the predominant means of processing grains in large commercial feedlots. Compared with dry rolling, steam flaking improves total tract digestibility and feed efficiency by 8 to 15%. In steam-flaked corn diets, alfalfa hay often is used as a source of roughage. A survey of industry consultants showed that the range of roughage levels used is between 4.5 and 13.5%. Roughages are commonly the highest-cost ingredient per unit of energy and are highly prone to shrink. Low roughage levels are desirable, but a modest level must be maintained to ensure rumen health. Cattle, like other species, can be selective in their eating. We proposed that we could achieve a greater level of grain processing with an extruded processed diet than with steam flaking. In addition, a complete extruded diet would ensure that all cattle received the desired ratio of concentrate and roughage.

Keywords: Cattlemen's Day, 2009, Report of progress (Kansas State University. Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service), 1010, Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station contribution , no. 09-168-S, Beef, Cattle, steam-flaked corn diets

How to Cite:

Strabler, R., Crisler, A., Depenbusch, B. E. & Drouillard, J. S., (2009) “Extruded complete feed for finishing cattle”, Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Reports 1(1), 54-61. doi: https://doi.org/10.4148/2378-5977.1491