Beef Livestock Feeding, Nutrition & Supplements

Mole Valley Farmers’ rationing programme, Precision Nutrition Beef looks at a number of unique nutrients which are at the heart of efficient beef production. Ultimately, optimal animal performance is dependent on the balance between these nutrients. By delving into these nutrients in detail, the team can help you improve performance efficiencies and ultimately, margins.

Some of the nutrients include:

• Gluco TN – This looks at the precursors to glucose which an animal uses for energy and growth.
• Rapidly Fermentable Carbohydrates (g/kgDM) – This provides a more detailed look at energy supply.
• Total Fermentable Carbohyrates (g/kgDM) – The combination of fast and slow energy.
• Structural Fibre Index – The amount of physical fibre in the diet.
• Acid Load (g/kgDM) – This is an indication of rumen health.

Analysis of a sample of beef diets has shown that high Gluco TN levels are positively related to growth rate. At the same time, too much fibre – leading to a high Structural Fibre Index – is negatively related.

The appropriate ration balance will be dictated by individual farm growth rate targets and rumen health. For example, a farmer wanting stock to grow at 1.2kg per day will require a diet with a different balance compared to one aiming for 1.7kg per day.

Our team will work with you to design an appropriate diet depending on your system, target growth rates, market outlet and forage supplies.

Forage forms the foundation of any cost effective beef diet, so we routinely test forages and balance rations accordingly. We can also provide tips on how to improve forage management.