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Feed additives.
1Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois College of Agriculture, Urbana.
Summary
Dairy feed additives can boost profits, with economic returns ranging from $2 to $12 per dollar invested. Veterinarians need to understand additive use, benefits, and monitoring for optimal dairy herd management.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Dairy Nutrition
- Agricultural Economics
Background:
- Feed additives are commonly used in dairy cattle rations to improve performance and health.
- The cost of these additives can significantly impact daily feed expenses, ranging from $2 to $65 per animal.
- The economic benefits derived from feed additives vary widely, with benefit-to-cost ratios reported between $2.00 and $12.00 per dollar invested.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the economic impact of feed additives in dairy cattle rations.
- To provide guidance for dairy veterinarians on the strategic use of feed additives.
- To discuss methods for objectively evaluating the efficacy and economic response of feed additives.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing research and field data on dairy feed additives.
- Analysis of economic response (benefit-to-cost ratio) of various additives.
- Discussion of practical considerations including inclusion levels, strategies, and limitations.
Main Results:
- Feed additives represent a variable cost in dairy rations, from $2 to $65 per animal daily.
- The economic return on investment for feed additives can range from $2.00 to $12.00 for every dollar spent.
- Understanding additive specifics is crucial for maximizing economic benefits.
Conclusions:
- Dairy veterinarians play a critical role in selecting and implementing effective feed additive strategies.
- Objective evaluation of additive performance and economic returns is essential for profitable dairy farming.
- Knowledge of additive roles, benefits, limitations, and monitoring is key to successful dairy nutrition management.