The Value of Kelp Meal in Rations for Dairy Cattle

Abstract

Summary Feeding experiments have been completed with 39 pairs of heifers to determine the value of adding kelp meal to dairy rations. Kelp meal was fed at the rate of four per cent of the concentrate mixture to one animal of each pair. Under the conditions of this investigation, the addition of kelp meal to normal rations for dairy heifers showed no particular benefits for growth, breeding efficiency, general health, physical condition, appetite, and size and condition of calves at birth. Continued feeding of kelp meal through a second gestation showed no favorable effects on breeding efficiency, feed consumption, and milk production.