Among the many options available to farmers, corn is a staple in many feed mills. However, there are several problems associated with corn in dairy cow feed. The corn stalks contain high amounts of fiber, which is a problem because it slows passage and lowers dry matter intake. Generally, manufacturers recommend consuming no more than 20 percent of corn as a percentage of the forage ration for lactating dairy cows. This cheapening practice leads to decreased milk production and lower profitability.
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Processed corn
This study evaluated the effect of different types of processed corn on the dietary protein content of lactating dairy cows. They used milk from eight multiparous Holstein dairy cows and developed diets that contained steam-flaked corn and finely ground corn. The DM content was high in corn based on their respective protein content. The forage to concentrate ratio was 40:60, with forage components of chopped alfalfa and corn silage.
The protein level of steam-flaked corn was significantly higher than that of finely ground corn, while the dietary composition of both types of corn varied. These differences made the researchers determine which method of corn processing is most suitable for dairy cows. The dietary composition and cost of processing corn for dairy cows are the primary determining factors. The following are some characteristics of corn that should be avoided by dairy producers.
Steam flaked corn
The study tested the impact of different feed components on the milk yield and protein content in dairy cows. All feed components reduced dry matter intake, but only SFC significantly improved milk protein yield. Also, cows fed SFC showed increased peNDF and improved energy intake. But despite the advantages of SFC, the research also revealed a downside. While SFC is not a suitable feed for dairy cows, it is often used by producers in mixed-feed systems.
In feedlot cattle, steam flaked corn improves weight gain and milk yield and DM, as well as solid non-fat and fat-corrected-milk. Its increased starch digestibility, ruminal condition, and milk fat content are generally similar to that of fine-ground corn. The processing method may also improve milk production. However, cows may prefer longer fibrous particles as chewing them can help to buffer the pH of the rumen.
Corn silage
The nutrient composition of corn silage can influence milk fat and milk production. Depending on the degree of processing, corn silage contains varying amounts of starch, which affects the rumen microbes. There are two main categories of corn silage: coarse and finely chopped. Chopped corn silage has lower crude protein and high crude protein. Finely chopped corn silage has less fiber and contains larger pieces of the cob. It may lead to sorting and refusal.
The selection of the correct hybrid will greatly affect the quality of corn silage. Some hybrids are not as productive as others. Also, selecting stress-prone fields can result in higher butyric acid content and less productivity. However, this method is more effective if you plan to harvest the crop during the second summer. It is important to avoid harvesting corn silage that is less than 30% dry matter (DM) before it is fully mature.
Triticale/clover hay
Triticale/clover hay is one of the major components of a typical silage mix in dairy farming. It provides a high protein content for dairy cows and is also a good source of nitrogen. The combination of triticale and legumes in hay is an excellent source of protein for dairy cows. Despite its high protein content, triticale hay is also known to improve silage fermentation. The presence of legumes in silage enables dairy cows to get more dry matter into their digestive tracts, which leads to increased intake of dry matter and enhanced milk production.
Triticale/clover hay is produced from the hybrid of wheat and rye. It combines the productivity of wheat with the heat tolerance and hardiness of rye. It is usually harvested at the dough stage of maturity. It is good for dry cows and may also be good for replacement heifers. Moreover, it is good for lactating cows as well.
Alternatives to corn
For producers of dairy cows, alternative to corn feeding may be necessary to meet different energy requirements. HFLS (High-Fermentation Low-Starch) products are good options for replacing corn grain and forage. These products are often used as corn replacements for dairy cows, but their use depends on the ration and the cow’s specific needs. Low-protein HFLS can be used as a direct replacement for corn, while middle-protein HFLS can be used to supplement corn meal or oilseed meal.
Another option for dairy cows that have limited access to forage is cottonseed. However, cottonseed is relatively expensive and may not be as healthy as forage diets. Another alternative to corn is sorghum and Sudan grass. Some rye varieties are also used in dairy rations, although they might only offer medium-quality forage. Those looking for more affordable feed sources should work with a nutritionist.
