Role of Feed Additive in Reducing Feed Consumption in Steers

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A recent trial conducted by INTA Valle Inferior and INTA Concepción del Uruguay, in collaboration with a private sector company, has yielded promising results in transforming feedlot steers finishing. The use of a multifactorial additive in the diet has shown to reduce feed intake per kilogram of weight gained by 31-35%, a significant improvement over traditional practices.

The study focused on Polhed Hereford steers weighing around 250 kg and was conducted over 90-100 days in feedlot finishing systems. Four feeding regimens were tested, including two with the multifactorial additive and two traditional diets.
The results showed that animals fed with the additive achieved a feed conversion efficiency of 5:1, compared to the 7:1 ratio typical of conventional protocols. This represents a significant productive and economic advantage, given the high cost of feed in cattle finishing diets .

 

The new feed additive offers several benefits for intensive livestock production, particularly in simplifying the adaptation process to grain-rich diets. Here’s a breakdown of the advantages:

  • Simplified Adaptation Process: The additive could eliminate the 20-25 day controlled transition period typically required to avoid acidosis and digestive disorders, making it easier to manage feedlot operations.
The implications of this innovation are significant:
  • Cost Reduction: A 35% decrease in feed intake per kilogram gained translates to substantial savings in feeding costs, which can account for up to 90% of finishing expenses.
  • Optimized Productivity: By reducing intake without compromising weight gain, feed conversion efficiency (FCE) improves, positively impacting final economic margins.
  • Operational Facilitation: Eliminating the adaptation period frees up labor and simplifies logistics in feedlots, making management easier.
  • Animal Welfare: Digestive risks associated with dietary changes are minimized, reducing health setbacks and losses.

Next Steps:
While the results are promising, further studies are needed to validate the additive’s consistency across breeds, weights, and production conditions. The production cost and commercial scalability will also be evaluated.

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https://nutrinews.com/en/steers-consume-up-to-35-less-feed-with-new-additive/?swcfpc=1