partial replacement of vegetable protein with Optigen exhibited a consistent improvement in the liveweight gain and feed efficiency of beef cattle . The many positive effects included an average higher liveweight gain ( by 8 %) and better feed efficiency ( by 8 %), with the inclusion of corn silage enhancing the effects of Optigen .
A simulation analysis based on these benefits indicated that feeding Optigen to gain 440 lbs . in 1,000 cattle would :
• Reduce the time to slaughter by 9 days .
• Reduce feed costs by $ 18,000 .
• Support a reduction in the carbon footprint of the beef unit by 111 tons of CO2e . Those carbon savings are the same as taking 73 cars off the road or reducing 75 houses worth of electricity usage .
Sustainability does not have to come at a cost
Lowering the environmental impact of animal feed does not mean lowering revenues for food system stakeholders . From the
large dairy farms in the U . S . to the 300 million dairy cows predominantly spread across
small farms in India , Alltech has seen firsthand that sustainable solutions have become the nonnegotiable in animal nutrition . Profitable farming understandably leads this agenda . With animal feed typically representing the most significant variable cost in producing animal products , there is a business responsibility to ensure that we minimize food loss and waste .
SUMMER ISSUE – JUNE 2021
Animal feed production has humbly underpinned the food system that has enabled global population growth over the last 150 years . It is now time to recognize this unique contribution and how it also serves in the discovering and implemention of technologies that lower the environmental impact of animal products and supports the circular economy .
Considering sustainability efforts need to make both environmental and economic sense , don ’ t miss our related blog six
tips to stretch your protein supplies and lower your feed costs .
Neil Keane is the commercial director for the Alltech Rumen Function Platform across Europe . His primary interest is in supporting sustainability and profitability goals in ruminant production systems .
Neil first joined Alltech in 2005 as part of the Alltech U . K . team , responsible for Scotland and Northern England . His work there focused on joint projects to deliver optimal efficiencies for end-user clients .
Neil was promoted into the
Alltech European team in 2010 and , following several product , species and sales roles , moved into his current position in 2015 .
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EFFECTS OF
NUTRITIONAL
DEFICIENCY
IN PLANT
PRODUCTION
Like with all living things, there are many aspects that need to be taken into account when aiming for the best
possible crop growth and performance. Only when these factors are all accounted for can we begin to see optimal
plant production. Proper nutrition plays a key role here, giving the plant metabolism everything it needs to function
efficiently. But producers need to find the right balance, as having a deficiency in any of the crop’s essential nutrients
can leave the plant susceptible to disease and other debilitating issues.
In crop management, The production potential of every
plant depends solely on its genetic characteristics.
In order to reach this potential, plants have specific
requirements that must be met. Finally, we supply the specific nutritional quantities and
balances required for each phenological phase of the
crop and the productive potential of the chosen genetic
material.
These criteria include: There are several specific mineral elements considered
essential for plant nutrition. They participate in some
structural or physiological functions of the plant. Without
these elements, development and productivity are
compromised.
•
Temperature
•
Light
•
Water
•
Nutrients
Furthermore, each of these factors must be provided to
the plant in the quantities and proportions suited to each
stage of development, from germination to harvest.
In crop management, we use practices that provide the
best conditions for plant development. Among these, we
ensure that the plant is provided with:
•
•
•
•
Adequate irrigation
Phytosanitary and weed control
The physical preparation of the soil
The correct adjustment of fertility
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In terms of macronutrients:
•
•
•
•
Nitrogen provides more vigorous growth and boosts
productivity.
Phosphorus maximizes root development and plant
longevity.
Potassium, magnesium and sulfur intensify
photosynthesis and the transport of photoassimilates,
favoring a greater filling and maturation of fruits,
tubers, pods, stems and grains.
Calcium participates directly in the development and
growth of plant tissue structures.
THE FEEDING TIMES