Related Experiment Videos
Recycled poultry bedding as cattle feed
Darrell L Rankins1, Matthew H Poore, Dawn J Capucille
1Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, 122 Upchurch Hall, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA. drankins@aces.edu
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Food Animal Practice
|September 19, 2002
Summary
Recycled poultry bedding (RPB) is a safe and economical feed for beef cattle when properly managed. Deep-stacking RPB ensures safety for cattle and consumers, offering a competitive edge to producers.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Animal Nutrition
- Food Safety
Background:
- Recycled poultry bedding (RPB) has been utilized as an economical feedstuff for beef cattle since the 1950s.
- Public awareness of agricultural issues, including bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), has increased scrutiny on feedstuffs.
- Current US regulations ban mammalian-derived protein in ruminant diets, necessitating producer affidavits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address concerns regarding the safety and nutritional aspects of feeding RPB to beef cattle.
- To investigate potential risks associated with RPB if poultry consumed ruminant meat and bone meal.
- To evaluate the safety of cattle grazing pastures fertilized with RPB.
Main Methods:
- Extensive studies conducted at experiment stations worldwide examining RPB's safety and nutritional value.
- Analysis of potential exposure routes of ruminant meat and bone meal to cattle through RPB and pasture fertilization.
- Evaluation of deep-stacking processing methods for RPB.
Main Results:
- Deep-stacking RPB under polyethylene sheeting produces a safe product for cattle.
- Processed RPB can form a complete diet for brood cows and stocker calves when supplemented.
- Feeding RPB is considered safe for both cattle and consumers.
Conclusions:
- The use of RPB requires advanced management expertise but offers financial benefits to informed producers.
- Potential issues can be mitigated by omitting ruminant meat and bone meal from poultry diets.
- Economic viability and public perception will shape the future utilization of RPB in beef cattle production.