A Comparison of Alfalfa Silages Prepared by the A.I.V. and Molasses Methods

Abstract

Summary Alfalfa silages prepared by the A.I.V. and molasses methods were compared during three years. The comparison was based upon chemical analysis of the product and the quantity and quality of milk produced in feeding trials. Chemical studies showed no pronounced differences, although protein and carotene were better preserved by the A.I.V. method. Good preservation of alfalfa containing 20 to 25 percent of dry matter was obtained by both methods. Carotene and protein losses were somewhat larger when the forage contained 30 percent dry matter. Rations containing either A.I.V. or molasses alfalfa silage, or corn silage and linseed meal, were equally satisfactory for milk production. The carotene and vitamin A contents of the butterfats produced on the legume silage rations were high but only in 1937 appreciably different from those produced upon the control ration. It is probable that under average farming conditions the vitamin A potency of the butterfat can be greatly increased by the use of legume silages. The milks from the three lots had approximately the same growth promoting properties when tested on rats. All of the milks in 1936 were superior to most winter milks. None of the milks in 1937 would support growth of guinea pigs. Molasses alfalfa silage appears to be equal to A.I.V. alfalfa silage, and conditions of farm practice probably make molasses silage more suitable for general use.