Effect of Partial Substitution of Corn with Whole-Grain Wheat in Fattening Lamb Diets on their Growth Performance

Abstract

Summary Wheat grain is commonly used for animal feeding in some regions while it is rarely used in others. Its nutrient composition is quite similar to more commonly used corn grain, but there are some concerns regarding its effect on animal performance and health. However, it appears that usage of wheat grain in animal feeding is dominantly affected by economic rather than nutritional reasons. When used with caution, wheat can be a good alternative to corn. In order to test this, 20 Wurttemberg lambs, three months old, were randomly separated in two groups and fed diets containing 600 g of corn grain, or 300 g of corn grain and 300 g of wheat grain, for a period of one month. The used grains were whole, non processed grains. Two diets contained the same commercial protein supplement and alfalfa hay was offered ad libitum. Both groups accepted their experimental diet well and readily consumed the amounts offered. No health problems were observed. Growth rate was higher in male than in female lambs, but was not affected by wheat inclusion.