Growth and carcass evaluation of Holstein steers fed liquid acid whey

Thirty Holstein steer calves, 96.5 kg, were assigned to three groups. Two groups received liquid acid whey, and one was the water control. Grain was fed either restricted or ad libitum to the whey groups and ad libitum to the water control group over three 14-wk growth periods. Hay, up to .4% body weight, reduced symptoms of bloat. Period 1: Calves started on a 20% crude protein dry ration for 7 wk and then changed to a 16% crude protein dry ration for 7 wk gained faster and were heavier than calves statred on a 30% crude protein dry ration for 7 wk and then changed to a 20% crude protein dry ration for 7 wk. Period 2: Body weights among groups were not different by the end of the period. Intakes of whey were 33.6 kg daily with grain ad libitum and 49.7 kg daily with restricted grain feeding. Water intake was 22.2 kg daily. The steers obtained 28% of their total dry matter intake from acid whey under ad libitum feeding, and 48% from acid whey under restricted feeding. Period 3: Final body weights were decreased by restricted feeding, but acid whey intake increased to 55.6 kg daily. These steers obtained 57% of their total dry matter intake from acid whey. Acid whey treatment resulted in lower carcass dressing percent, rib fat cover, and loin eye area. Grades averaged Standard for acid whey, restricted grain feeding and Low Good for acid whey, ad libitum grain feeding. Lower panel scores were given for aroma and quantity of juice for restricted grain feeding. Acid whey treatment did not change tenderness, shear values, or overall carcass desirability.