While no ruminant can live entirely on alfalfa pellets, it is often an ideal supplement. Depending on the age and type of animal, up to 50 percent of the average grazing amount can be supplemented with alfalfa pellets, without compromising the nutritional value. What are the best benefits of alfalfa pellets? Here’s a closer look at some of them.
Contents
Protein
Providing livestock with a high-quality, nutritious diet can be an important way to boost milk production and reduce feed costs. Alfalfa pellets have been the staple of cattle for many years, and its protein content is among the highest in the world. Its nutritional value also varies according to the stage of growth and maturity. In a voluntary intake trial, it provided 17.6% crude protein and 1.26% calcium. It was also well-digested, with a digestibility of 50.8%.
Fiber
Alfalfa is a forage crop that is widely grown throughout the world. It is particularly popular in the United States, where over 30 million acres of alfalfa are planted each year. Alfalfa is cut three to four times a year, but can grow as long as 12 times in Arizona. Alfalfa pellets contain a high content of fiber, making them an excellent choice for livestock feed. These pellets can be fed in small amounts or mixed with fresh forage.
TDN
TDN alfalfa pellets provide high-quality protein and energy to livestock. Alfalfa hay is a high-protein feed with an amino acid profile of about 70 percent digestibility. Alfalfa contains approximately twice as much TDN (total digestible nitrogen) as corn and two-thirds the amount of protein in soybean meal. Feeding cattle pellets with TDN will help cattle gain weight faster, produce more milk, and maintain better condition.
Vitamins
Adding vitamin supplements to cattle’s diet is not as expensive as you may think. Alfalfa is widely grown in many countries, with the majority being in the United States and Europe. In 2009, alfalfa was grown on about 30 million hectares, and it is harvested approximately three to four times a year. In Arizona, alfalfa can be harvested as often as twelve times per year. Alfalfa is highly nutritious, and the added vitamins and minerals help cattle remain healthy and productive.
Minerals
Minerals in alfalfa pellet for cattle should be fed in appropriate amounts. The recommended amount is 8 ounces daily, or four ounces plus four ounces of salt. However, if a particular mineral does not seem to be well absorbed, it may be best to feed a different mineral. It is important to monitor the mineral consumption in cattle to determine the cause of low mineral levels.
Economic value
The market for alfalfa pellets for cattle is driven by increasing demand for dairy products, declining animal grazing land, and the increase in bred and high-yield cattle. Several global and regional players are present in the market. In addition to these, several new players are trying to enter the market. Some of them are strengthening their businesses and expanding their production facilities.
Health benefits
Alfalfa is one of the most common forage crops in the world. It is grown on about 30 million hectares worldwide, most commonly in America and Europe. It is typically cut three to four times a year, but it can be harvested as much as twelve times in Arizona. Alfalfa is an excellent fodder, and is available year-round and is a high-quality source of protein and nutrients. Alfalfa pellets provide nutrients and are easy to digest, making them a highly beneficial addition to your cattle’s diet.
