Feed Additives

Summary

This module explores the role of feed additives in dairy farming, emphasizing the importance of understanding their expected responses, cost-effectiveness, and research-backed efficacy. The four R's—Response, Return, Research, and Results—serve as a framework for evaluating these additives. Farmers should aim for a minimum two-to-one cost-benefit ratio and rely on controlled studies to assess effectiveness. Ultimately, measuring real-world outcomes on their farms is crucial for justifying the use of feed additives and optimizing herd performance.

Takeaways

• 😀 The acceptance of feed additives varies among dairy farmers, with some being optimistic and others cautious.
• 😀 High-producing dairy herds often utilize feed additives, with sodium bicarbonate being the most common.
• 😀 Understanding the expected response from an additive is crucial before its inclusion in the diet.
• 😀 A cost-benefit ratio of at least 2:1 is desirable for feed additives to ensure profitability.
• 😀 Targeting specific cows (e.g., fresh cows) can enhance the effectiveness of certain additives like niacin.
• 😀 Non-economic returns, such as improved cow health, should also be considered when evaluating additives.
• 😀 Research studies should be controlled, unbiased, and statistically significant to validate the effectiveness of additives.
• 😀 Mistakes in using or not using an additive can lead to substantial financial losses for dairy farmers.
• 😀 Monitoring and measuring outcomes, such as milk production and health metrics, is essential for assessing additive effectiveness.
• 😀 Different additives serve multiple functions and should be used at the recommended levels to achieve desired results.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the module on feed additives?

The module discusses the use of feed additives in dairy farming, examining their effectiveness and economic impact on milk production.

What historical data is referenced regarding the use of feed additives?

Surveys from the University of Kentucky in 1983 and Texas A&M in 1992 show changes in the usage of feed additives among high-producing dairy herds, with notable increases in yeast culture and zinc methionine.

What are the four R's used to evaluate feed additives?

The four R's are Response, Return, Research, and Results, which help farmers assess the effectiveness and economic viability of feed additives.

How should dairy farmers define expected responses from feed additives?

Farmers should identify specific outcomes such as increased milk yield, improved feed efficiency, or better health indicators before using an additive.

What is considered a good cost-benefit ratio for feed additives?

A 2:1 cost-benefit ratio is ideal, meaning that for every dollar spent on an additive, at least two dollars in returns should be expected.

What types of studies should be considered when evaluating the effectiveness of feed additives?

Farmers should look for controlled, unbiased research studies that compare cows receiving the additive to those that do not, ensuring statistical significance in the results.

What are the potential consequences of not using a beneficial feed additive?

Not using an effective additive can lead to greater financial losses compared to using one that shows no response, as the opportunity cost of missed gains can be significant.

How are feed additives classified in the module?

Additives are categorized based on their function, recommended levels, economic return, and the status of research, helping farmers make informed decisions.

What does the classification 'not recommended' indicate about a feed additive?

A 'not recommended' classification means that the additive fails to meet one of the four R's, usually indicating a lack of economic return.

Why is it important to track the results of feed additive use on a farm?

Tracking results is essential to measure the actual impact of additives on milk production, health, and overall farm efficiency, ensuring that investments are justified.