Comparing the protein source and frequency of supplementation of forage intake, competitive feeding interactions, and nutrient utilization for beef cattle fed low-quality forages
Researcher: Dr. Gregory Penner, Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan
Project Code: CUP NSERC-CRD 2017-202
Final Report: July 2021
Summary: Researchers wanted to determine if canola meal could be a suitable protein source for beef cattle. The main objectives of this study were to compare distillers' grains and canola meal as protein supplements for beef cattle consuming low-quality forage, and to evaluate if the frequency of protein supplementation affected nutrient utilization and feeding behaviour. Overall, the study showed that protein supplementation of heifers grazing low-quality forages does increase forage DMI, heifer ADG and other factors, and that feeding double the amount of protein supplements every second day was sufficient. The study showed that canola meal is a high-quality protein source and may be more economically favourable than distillers' grains.
Click the links below to download a short version of the report, the full detailed long version of the report, or the related Canola Digest PDF.
- Short Report: Comparing the protein source and frequency of supplementation of forage intake, competitive feeding interactions, and nutrient utilization for beef cattle fed low-quality forages
- Full Report: Comparing the protein source and frequency of supplementation of forage intake, competitive feeding interactions, and nutrient utilization for beef cattle fed low-quality forages
