Livestock farmers urged to monitor ingredients for accurate feed formulation

Premier Nutrition’s Eloise Lawlor explains that with overall yields above the five-year average, the Premier Nutrition harvest survey has confirmed the protein of wheat has decreased.

She says: “Our national survey results have shown an average 0.4 per cent drop in wheat protein levels, with energy also decreasing by 0.09MJ/kg.”

Ms Lawlor explains the reduction in energy levels is not surprising, as this summer’s changeable conditions have led to higher moisture content.

“To compensate for these deficits in protein and energy, soya and fat inclusions may increase in your diet formulations,” she says.

Ms Lawlor adds although the wetter conditions witnessed this year have influenced energy content, average mycotoxin levels across the UK remain low.

“Our report has highlighted regional variation and, therefore, I would strongly recommend ongoing local monitoring of cereal samples.”

Balancing

And while initial results for maize silage are encouraging, farmers are being warned later harvested crops will need careful monitoring.