Rice bran is a useful, energy-dense feed for cattle when it is stabilized and fed in moderation. It adds fat, fiber, and protein at a competitive price, but it is high in phosphorus and can go rancid if it is not processed correctly. Here is how to use it well.
What Is Rice Bran?
Rice bran is the outer layer removed when rice is milled. Stabilized rice bran has been heat-treated to stop its natural enzymes from turning the oil rancid, which makes it safe to store. Defatted rice bran has had much of the oil removed. Rice polish and rice hulls are different products, and hulls are low in nutrition, so check what you are buying.
Benefits for Cattle
- Energy from fat. Full-fat bran is often around 15 to 20 percent fat, which helps cattle hold condition on pasture or hay.
- Protein and fiber. Typically in the low teens for protein, plus moderate fiber.
- B vitamins and antioxidants. Rice bran contains natural plant compounds such as gamma oryzanol, though the benefits for cattle are modest.
- Palatability. Most cattle like it, especially in a mixed ration or pellet.
- Cost. Often cheaper than grain in rice-growing regions.
Risks and Limits
- Phosphorus. Rice bran is high in phosphorus and low in calcium. Without extra calcium, the ratio can go wrong; see the ideal calcium-to-phosphorus ratio in cattle.
- Too much fat. Total dietary fat above about 6 to 7 percent of dry matter can hurt fiber digestion, so count the fat in rice bran along with other feeds.
- Rancidity. Unstabilized bran spoils within days to weeks. Buy stabilized product, store it dry and cool, and discard anything that smells sour or paint-like.
- Quality variation. Hulls or sand can dilute the product. Ask for a feed analysis.
How Much to Feed
Rice bran is normally a minor part of the ration. Nutritionists commonly keep it to roughly 10 to 15 percent of the diet dry matter or less, but the right amount depends on the rest of your feed, the stage of production, and the product. Introduce it over one to two weeks, mix it thoroughly into the feed, and keep good hay or pasture available. Have a livestock nutritionist or your extension office balance the whole ration.
Related Reading
Compare other feed options: which grains are best for cows, brewers grains, and cattle mineral blocks.
Bottom Line
Stabilized rice bran is a good fat and energy supplement for cattle when it makes up a small share of the ration and calcium is balanced. Watch for rancidity, ask for a feed analysis, and check with a livestock nutritionist or veterinarian before changing the diet.
