Concentrated Separator By-product Research Articles

Influence of corn supplementation to beef cows during mid- to late-gestation: Supplementation decreases placental microvascular surface density but does not alter uterine blood flow or neonatal performance1

Gestating cows fed low-quality forage diets are often at risk of nutrient restriction, including energy, protein, or both. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing corn to gestating beef cows fed low-quality forage by tracking uterine and mammary hemodynamics and neonatal performance. We hypothesized that mid- to late-gestating beef cows receiving corn supplementation would have enhanced uterine and mammary hemodynamics and increased placental microvascularity. At d 100 of gestation, multiparous cows, predominantly of Angus breeding, and carrying male calves were assigned randomly to the following treatments: supplementation (SUP; n = 24) at the level of 0.2% (dry matter basis) of body weight (BW) or basal diet without supplement (CON; n = 23). All cows were fed the same basal diet (60% hay, 30% wheat straw, and 10% concentrated separator by-product). Intake was monitored individually with Insentec feeders from d 100 of gestation through calving. Every 28 days from the beginning of supplementation at d 100 until d 240 of pregnancy, uterine and mammary hemodynamics were monitored using Doppler ultrasonography, and jugular blood samples were obtained to determine hormone concentrations. At birth (CON: 277.6 ± 3.1 days; SUP: 275.5 ± 2.8 days; mean ± stdev), cow and calf BW, colostrum samples, and placental tissues were collected. Representative cotyledons were excised from fetal membranes and histological image analysis of placental vascularity with hematoxylin and eosin staining was conducted. All measurements and data collected were analyzed with the MIXED procedure and means were separated using the LSMEANS statement in SAS. Hemodynamics, placental weight, and colostrum variables were not altered by supplementation (P ≥ 0.13). Placental microvascular surface density was suppressed (P < 0.01) by maternal corn supplementation. The differences in nutrient intake were not great enough to elicit differences in uterine or mammary hemodynamics, even though placental vascular surface density was decreased by corn supplementation in multiparous beef cows. Moreover, the few alterations in the maternal endocrine profiles due to corn supplementation did not translate into negative endocrine or early developmental changes in the offspring. Corn may be a good substitute for hay when costs and availability are economically advantageous to the producer.

Influence of corn supplementation to beef cows during mid- to late-gestation: maternal feed intake, body condition, plasma metabolites, and calf growth

To determine the effect of supplementing dry-rolled corn during mid- to late-gestation in cows fed low-quality forage on feed intake, body weight (BW), and body condition score (BCS), plasma metabolites, and neonatal growth, 47 multiparous cows (661 ± 7.8 kg BW, 5.2 ± 0.1 BCS, 7.5 ± 0.2 yr of age) predominately of Angus breeding and carrying male calves were assigned randomly to supplement treatments: 0% (unsupplemented; n = 24) or 0.2% of BW of dry-rolled corn (supplemented; DM basis; n = 23) from d 110 to 265 of gestation. All cows were fed the same basal forage consisting of grass hay, wheat straw, and sugar beet concentrated separator byproduct. Feed intake was monitored individually from d 110 of gestation until d 21 post-calving. Cows on the supplemented treatment were individually allowed access to 1 Insentec feeder containing corn per pen. Body weight and BCS were determined every 28 d until d 240 of pregnancy, at parturition, and at 3 wk postpartum. Jugular blood samples also were collected every 28 d during the gestation period. Calves were weighed at birth, 3 wk postpartum, and at weaning (d 168). Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS. Corn supplementation increased (P ≤ 0.008) BW and BCS change during gestation and tended (P = 0.07) to decrease gestation length. Corn supplementation decreased (P = 0.002) dry matter intake (DMI) of the basal forage but did not influence (P = 0.84) total DMI (forage + corn) during gestation. Plasma glucose was not influenced (P = 0.12) by supplemental treatment and plasma urea N and non-esterified fatty acids were greater (P ≤ 0.02) in unsupplemented than supplemented cows. Body weight and BCS change, and DMI in cows from birth until 21 d of lactation were not influenced (P ≥ 0.27) by supplementation treatment. Corn supplementation during gestation did not affect (P = 0.76) calf birth weight. At 3 wk postpartum calves from supplemented cows were heavier (P = 0.04) but corn supplementation did not influence BW (P = 0.76) at weaning. Overall, supplementation of dry-rolled corn at 0.2% of BW during mid- to late-gestation likely did not elicit large enough differences in energy status to have lasting effects on calf BW. However, corn supplementation at low levels during gestation may be useful as a substitute for forage to improve energy status of the cow while decreasing the need for forage.

Effects of distillers dried grains with solubles on growing and finishing steer intake, performance, carcass characteristics, and steak color and sensory attributes1

Seventy-two crossbred and purebred beef steers (296 +/- 9 kg initial BW) were used in a completely randomized design to determine effects of 30% distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS; 29.2% CP, 9.7% fat, DM basis) inclusion during the growing or finishing period on DMI, performance, carcass, and meat quality traits. The resulting treatments were 0:0, 30:0, 0:30, and 30:30 (diet DDGS percentage fed during growing and finishing periods, respectively). Steers were individually fed a growing diet (65% concentrate) for 57 d, then acclimated to and fed a finishing diet (90% concentrate) for 80 or 145 d. Dietary ingredients included dry-rolled corn, corn silage, grass hay, concentrated separator by-product, and supplement. Diets included 27.5 mg/kg of monensin and 11 mg/kg of tylosin and were formulated to contain a minimum of 12.5% CP, 0.70% Ca, and 0.30% P. During the growing period, DMI was not different (P >or= 0.63; 10.22 +/- 0.23 kg/d; 2.42 +/- 0.06% of BW). Steer performance, including ADG (1.75 +/- 0.05 kg/d) and G:F (174.1 +/- 6.8 g/kg), was not affected (P >or= 0.14) by treatment during the growing period, and final BW at the end of the growing period was not different (425 +/- 7 kg; P = 0.99). During the finishing period, DMI was not different (P >or= 0.54; 8.47 +/- 0.66 kg/d; 1.57 +/- 0.09% BW). During the finishing period, no differences (P >or= 0.22) were observed for ADG (1.54 +/- 0.07 kg/d) or G:F (202.4 +/- 28.3 g/kg). As a result, final BW was not different (P >or= 0.28; 551 +/- 15 kg). Longissimus muscle area (77.8 +/- 3.3 cm(2)), 12th-rib fat thickness (1.26 +/- 0.10 cm), and KPH (2.48 +/- 0.16%) were not different (P >or= 0.16). There were no differences (P >or= 0.35) in yield grade (3.33 +/- 0.17) or marbling (431 +/- 21; Small(0) = 400). Results from the trained panel indicated no differences (P >or= 0.16) in tenderness, which averaged 6.03 +/- 0.16 (8-point hedonic scale); however, steaks from steers fed 0:30 or 30:30 tended (P = 0.10) to be juicier and more flavorful than steaks from steers fed 0:0 or 30:0 (6.01 vs. 5.83 +/- 0.11; 6.02 vs. 5.89 +/- 0.08, respectively). Inclusion of 30% DDGS in the growing period tended to reduce L (P = 0.08; 48.6 vs. 48.9 +/- 0.2) and b (P = 0.01; 8.24 vs. 8.65 +/- 0.18) of steaks. Feeding DDGS during growing or finishing reduced b (P = 0.02; 8.35 vs. 8.74 +/- 0.18) compared with 0:0. Feeding DDGS during the finishing period reduced a (P < 0.001; 20.1 vs. 22.0 +/- 0.24) of steaks. Furthermore, feeding DDGS during growing or finishing reduced a (P < 0.001; 20.9 vs. 21.7 +/- 0.24) compared with 0:0. Feeding 30% DDGS did not affect any performance or carcass characteristics but did influence steak sensory attributes and color.

Effects of increasing level of corn distillers dried grains with solubles on intake, digestion, and ruminal fermentation in steers fed seventy percent concentrate diets1

Five ruminally and duodenally cannulated steers (500 +/- 5 kg of initial BW) were used in a 5 x 5 Latin square to evaluate effects of increasing level of corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) in growing diets (70% concentrate) on OM intake, site of digestion, ruminal fermentation, and microbial efficiency. Diets consisted of 30% grass hay, 6% concentrated separator by-product, 4% supplement, and 60% dry-rolled corn, sunflower meal, urea, or DDGS (DM basis). Treatments consisted of increasing DDGS at 0, 15, 30, 45, or 60% of diet DM replacing a combination of dry-rolled corn, sunflower meal, and urea. Diets were balanced for growing steers gaining 1.22 kg/d and included 0.25% (DM basis) chromic oxide as a digesta flow marker. Diets were offered to the steers for ad libitum intake each day (10% above the intake of the previous day). Each period consisted of 14 d for adaptation and 7 d for collections. Intake of OM responded quadratically (P = 0.004) with greatest intakes at 15% DDGS and least at 60% DDGS. No differences (P >or= 0.14) were observed in CP intake or duodenal flow of OM, CP, and NDF. Apparent and true ruminal OM digestibilities decreased (linear; P <or= 0.009) with increasing DDGS inclusion. Total tract CP digestibility increased (linear; P < 0.001) with increasing DDGS, but total tract OM digestibility was not different (P = 0.74). Microbial efficiency (g of microbial N/kg of OM truly fermented) was not affected (P = 0.22) by treatment. As DDGS increased, ruminal pH increased (linear; P = 0.004), whereas ammonia concentration remained unchanged (P = 0.42). Acetate proportions decreased (linear; P < 0.001) with increasing DDGS, whereas propionate and butyrate were not affected (P >or= 0.19). A cubic (P = 0.02) effect was observed for total ruminal fill (as is basis) with the greatest fill at 0% DDGS and the least fill at 45% inclusion. Replacing dry-rolled corn with up to 60% DDGS in 70% concentrate diets resulted in no adverse effects on total tract OM digestion, although OM intake was reduced at 60% DDGS inclusion.

Influence of pressed beet pulp and concentrated separator by-product on intake, gain, efficiency of gain, and carcass composition of growing and finishing beef steers

The objectives of this experiment were to determine a NE value for pressed beet pulp and the value of concentrated separator by-product (de-sugared molasses) as a ruminal N source in growing and finishing diets for beef cattle. One hundred forty-four cross-bred beef steers (282 +/- 23 kg of initial BW) were used in 2 experiments (growing and finishing). A randomized complete block design was used, with a 3 x 2 factorial arrangement of treatments (level of pressed beet pulp and inclusion of concentrated separator by-product) for both studies. Steers were blocked by BW and allotted randomly to 1 of 6 treatments. In the growing study, the control diet contained 49.5% corn, 31.5% corn silage, 10.0% alfalfa hay, and 9.0% supplement (DM basis). Pressed beet pulp replaced corn at 0, 20, or 40% of dietary DM, and concentrated separator by-product replaced corn and urea at 10% of dietary DM. The growing study lasted for 84 d. Initial BW was an average of 2-d BW after a 3-d, restricted (1.75% of BW) feeding of 50% alfalfa hay and 50% corn silage (DM basis), and final BW was an average of 2-d BW after a 3-d, restricted (1.75% of BW) feeding of 31.5% corn silage, 10.0% alfalfa hay, 25.0% dry-rolled corn, 20.0% pressed beet pulp, 5.0% concentrated separator by-product, and 8.5% supplement (DM basis). After the growing study, the steers were weighed (415 +/- 32 kg), rerandomized, and allotted to 1 of 6 finishing diets. The control diet for the finishing study included 45% dry-rolled corn, 40% high-moisture corn, 5% brome hay, 5% pressed beet pulp, and 5% supplement. Pressed beet pulp replaced high-moisture corn at 5.0, 12.5, and 20.0% of the dietary DM, and concentrated separator by-product replaced high-moisture corn and supplement at 10.0% of diet DM. Steers were slaughtered on d 83 or 98 of the study. In the growing study, the addition of pressed beet pulp to growing diets linearly decreased (P = 0.001) DMI and ADG and inclusion of 10% concentrated separator by-product decreased (P = 0.001) G:F. Increased levels of pressed beet pulp in the finishing diets caused a linear decrease (P = 0.001) in ADG and tended (P = 0.06 and 0.07 for kg/d and % of BW, respectively) to quadratically decrease DMI, whereas addition of concentrated separator by-product increased (P = 0.02 and 0.001 for kg/d and % of BW, respectively) DMI. Apparent NEg of pressed beet pulp was 94.2% of that of corn in the growing study and 81.5% of that of corn in the finishing study.

Evaluation of ruminal nitrogen availability in liquid feeds

A method to assess N availability in liquid feeds was evaluated. Microbial protein mass produced in vitro, estimated using cytosine as a marker, was assumed to be a function of available N. Samples were incubated with rumen fluid, McDougall's buffer, and an excess amount of starch for 12 h. In Experiment 1, graded levels of casein, urea, and a mix of casein and urea were added to fermentation tubes to assess the effect of protein source. Microbial mass was linearly related to added protein, but it was independent of protein source. In Experiments 2–4, products were manufactured from different base ingredients (cane molasses; steep liquor; distiller's solubles; concentrated separator byproduct; sucrose; a mixture of sucrose, glucose, and fructose; soluble starch; hydrolyzed starch) by adding either casein or urea to study the effect of different processes on ruminal N availability. In Experiment 2, the effects on ruminal N availability of adding 20 g/kg NaCl or 40 g/kg phosphoric acid to the aforementioned liquid feeds were measured. Addition of NaCl reduced N availability by 21%, and phosphoric acid reduced N availability by 50%. In Experiment 3, the effect of heating was measured in products containing 20 g/kg NaCl. Heating at 100 °C for 15 min reduced N availability (P<0.0001), and the response was dependent on the N source. Heating reduced N availability for products made with casein more than for products made with urea. In Experiment 4, the effect of storage (0, 2, or 8 weeks) on N availability was measured for products containing phosphoric acid. Storage reduced N availability for products stored for 2 weeks by 7%, whereas for products stored for 8 weeks the N availability returned to that observed for samples immediately frozen. Experiment 5 was conducted to evaluate the N availability of various liquid ingredients used in feed manufacturing. There were differences among products for N availability; steep liquors averaged 0.38, but cane and beet molasses and separator byproduct were essentially 0. Measuring N availability by using cytosine as a marker for microbial growth in a protein-limited fermentation appears useful. Caution must be taken when processing liquid feeds to ensure ruminal availability of N.

Effects of concentrated separator by-product (desugared molasses) on intake, site of digestion, microbial efficiency, and nitrogen balance in ruminants fed forage-based diets1

In Exp. 1, 4 ruminally and duodenally cannulated beef steers (444.0 +/- 9.8 kg) were used in a 4 x 4 Latin square with a 2 x 2 factorial treatment arrangement to evaluate the effects of forage type (alfalfa or corn stover) and concentrated separator byproduct (CSB) supplementation (0 or 10% of dietary DM) on intake, site of digestion, and microbial efficiency. In Exp. 2, 5 wethers (44 +/- 1.5 kg) were used in a 5 x 5 Latin square to evaluate the effects of CSB on intake, digestion, and N balance. Treatments were 0, 10, and 20% CSB (DM basis) mixed with forage; 10% CSB offered separately from the forage; and a urea control, in which urea was added to the forage at equal N compared with the 10% CSB treatment. In Exp. 1, intakes of OM and N (g/kg of BW) were greater (P < 0.01) for steers fed alfalfa compared with corn stover. Steers fed 10% CSB had greater (P < 0.08) OM and N intakes (g/kg of BW) compared with 0% CSB-fed steers. Total duodenal, microbial, and nonmicrobial flows of OM and N were greater (P < 0.01) for steers fed alfalfa compared with corn stover. Steers fed 10% CSB had increased (P = 0.02) duodenal microbial flow (N and OM) compared with 0% CSB-fed steers. Forage x CSB interactions (P < 0.01) existed for total tract N digestibility; alfalfa with or without CSB was similar (67.4 vs. 69.5), whereas corn stover with CSB was greater than corn stover without CSB (31.9 vs. -23.9%). True ruminal OM digestion was greater (P < 0.09) in steers fed alfalfa vs. corn stover (73.0 vs. 63.1%) and in steers fed 10 vs. 0% CSB (70.3 vs. 65.8%). Microbial efficiency was unaffected (P > 0.25) by forage type or CSB supplementation. In Exp. 2, forage and total intake increased (linear; P < 0.01) as CSB increased and were greater (P < 0.04) in 10% CSB mixed with forage compared with 10% CSB fed separately. Feeding 10% CSB separately resulted in similar DM and OM apparent total tract digestibility compared with 10% CSB fed mixed. Increasing CSB led to an increase (linear; P < 0.02) in DM, OM, apparent N digestion, and water intake. Nitrogen balance (g and percentage of N intake) increased (linear; P < 0.08) with CSB addition. Feeding 10% CSB separately resulted in greater (P < 0.01) N balance compared with 10% CSB fed mixed. Using urea resulted in similar (P = 0.30) N balance compared with 10% CSB fed mixed. Inclusion of CSB improves intake, digestion, and increases microbial N production in ruminants fed forage-based diets.

Effects of concentrated separator by-product (desugared molasses) on intake, ruminal fermentation, digestion, and microbial efficiency in beef steers fed grass hay1

Concentrated separator by-product (CSB) is produced when beet molasses goes through an industrial desugaring process. To investigate the nutritional value of CSB as a supplement for grass hay diets (12.5% CP; DM basis), 4 ruminally and duodenally cannulated beef steers (332 +/- 2.3 kg) were used in a 4 x 4 Latin square with a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Factors were intake level: ad libitum (AL) vs. restricted (RE; 1.25% of BW, DM basis) and dietary CSB addition (0 vs. 10%; DM basis). Experimental periods were 21 d in length, with the last 7 d used for collections. By design, intakes of both DM and OM (g/kg of BW) were greater (P < 0.01; 18.8 vs. 13.1 +/- 0.69 and 16.8 vs. 11.7 +/- 0.62, respectively) for animals consuming AL compared with RE diets. Main effect means for intake were not affected by CSB (P = 0.59). However, within AL-fed steers, CSB tended (P = 0.12) to improve DMI (6,018 vs. 6,585 +/- 185 g for 0 and 10% CSB, respectively). Feeding CSB resulted in similar total tract DM and OM digestion compared with controls (P = 0.50 and 0.87, respectively). There were no effects of CSB on apparent total tract NDF (P = 0.27) or ADF (P = 0.35) digestion; however, apparent N absorption increased (P = 0.10) with CSB addition. Total tract NDF, ADF, or N digestion coefficients were not different between AL- and RE-fed steers. Nitrogen intake (P = 0.02), total duodenal N flow (P = 0.02), and feed N escaping to the small intestine (P = 0.02) were increased with CSB addition. Microbial efficiency was unaffected by treatment (P = 0.17). Supplementation with CSB increased the rate of DM disappearance (P = 0.001; 4.9 vs. 6.9 +/- 0.33 %/h). Restricted intake increased the rate of in situ DM disappearance (P = 0.03; 6.4 vs. 5.3 +/- 0.33 %/h) compared with AL-fed steers. Ruminal DM fill was greater (P = 0.01) in AL compared with RE. Total VFA concentrations were greater (P = 0.04) for CSB compared with controls; however, ammonia concentrations were reduced (P = 0.03) with CSB addition. At different levels of dietary intake, supplementing medium-quality forage with 10% CSB increased N intake, small intestinal protein supply, and total ruminal VFA.

Grain source and processing in diets containing varying concentrations of wet corn gluten feed for finishing cattle

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate combinations of wet corn gluten feed (WCGF) and barley, as well as the particle size of dry-rolled barley and corn, in finishing steer diets containing WCGF. In Exp. 1, 144 crossbred steers (initial BW = 298.9 +/- 1.4 kg) were used to evaluate barley (0.566 kg/L and 23.5% NDF for whole barley) and WCGF combinations in finishing diets containing 0, 17, 35, 52, or 69% WCGF (DM basis), replacing barley and concentrated separator byproduct. A sixth treatment consisted of corn (0.726 kg/L and 11.1% NDF for whole corn), replacing barley in the 35% WCGF treatment. In Exp. 2, 144 crossbred steers (initial BW = 315.0 +/- 1.5 kg) were used to evaluate coarse or fine, dry-rolled barley or corn (0.632 and 0.699 kg/L; 26.6 and 15.9% NDF for whole barley and corn, respectively) in finishing diets containing WCGF. A factorial treatment design was used; the factors were grain source (corn or barley) and degree of processing (coarse or fine). The diets contained 50% WCGF, 42% grain (corn or barley), 5% alfalfa hay, and 3% supplement (DM basis). In Exp. 1, DMI and ADG responded quadratically (P < or = 0.03), peaking at 35 and 52% WCGF, respectively. The efficiency of gain was not affected (P > or = 0.42) by dietary treatment. Steers fed dry-rolled corn and 35% WCGF had heavier HCW, lower DMI, greater ADG, increased G:F, increased s.c. fat thickness at the 12th rib, and greater yield grades compared with steers fed dry-rolled barley and 35% WCGF (P < or = 0.04). The apparent dietary NEg was similar among the barley and WCGF combinations (P > or = 0.51); however, the corn and 35% WCGF diet was 25% more energy dense (P < 0.001) than was the barley and 35% WCGF diet. In Exp. 2, no grain x processing interactions (P > or = 0.39) were observed. Particle size was 2.15 and 2.59 mm for fine- and coarse-rolled barley and was 1.90 and 3.23 mm for fine- and coarse-rolled corn. Steers fed a combination of corn and WCGF had increased ADG, greater G:F, heavier HCW, larger LM area, more s.c. fat thickness at the 12th rib, greater yield grades, increased marbling, and more KPH compared with steers fed a combination of barley and WCGF (P < or = 0.03). Fine-rolling of the grain increased fat thickness (P = 0.04). The addition of WCGF to the barley-based diets increased DMI and gain. Decreasing grain particle size did not greatly affect performance of the steers fed the 50% WCGF diets; however, carcasses from the steers fed the fine-rolled grain contained more fat.

Field pea ( Pisum sativum) inclusion in corn-based lamb finishing diets

Two hundred crossbred lambs were used to determine energy value and optimum inclusion level of field pea ( Pisum sativum) in corn-based diets. In experiment one (Exp. 1), 100 crossbred lambs (33.9±1.3 kg initial BW) were blocked by weight and sex (two blocks of ewe lambs per treatment; three blocks of ram lambs per treatment) and fed for 89 days. In experiment two (Exp. 2), 100 crossbred ram lambs (39.1±0.2 kg initial BW) were blocked by weight (five pens per treatment) and fed for 63 days. Treatments for each experiment were similar; field pea replaced corn at 0, 150, 300, or 450 g/kg of the diet (DM basis). Diets contained 750 g/kg corn and/or field pea, 100 g/kg alfalfa hay, 50 g/kg concentrated separator byproduct (CSB), 60 g/kg soybean meal (SBM), and 40 g/kg supplement. In Exp. 2, a fifth treatment was added to evaluate if field pea can replace corn and SBM in high-grain diets (450−SBM); this diet consisted of 450 g/kg field pea, 350 g/kg corn, 100 g/kg alfalfa, 50 g/kg CSB, and 50 g/kg supplement. Diets contained 28 mg/kg lasalocid and a minimum 149.6 g/kg CP, 7.6 g/kg Ca, 4.4 g/kg P, and 12.2 g/kg K. Only carcass data from ram lambs were recorded. Data for each experiment were analyzed separately with GLM procedure of SAS and linear, quadratic, and cubic effects of field pea were determined. In Exp. 1, a cubic ( P=0.02) response for DMI occurred, greater intake of 150 g/kg than 300 g/kg diet. No other performance measurements were affected by treatment. In Exp. 2, lambs fed 450−SBM tended to be more efficient ( P=0.10) than lambs fed 450+SBM. Carcass characteristics were not affected by treatment ( P>0.10). Based on lamb performance (Exp. 1) there was a tendency for a linear ( P=0.10) increase in dietary net energy. In Exp. 2, no difference in dietary net energy occurred with increasing level of field pea. Dietary net energy was greater for 450−SBM compared with 450+SBM. Average calculated NE m and NE g for field pea were 2.75 and 2.02 Mcal/kg, which was 14% greater than corn. Field pea is a suitable replacement for corn in lamb finishing diets and is at least equal in energy density to corn.

Influence of steam-peeled potato-processing waste inclusion level in beef finishing diets: effects on digestion, feedlot performance, and meat quality.

Inclusion of potato-processing waste (PW) from the frozen potato products industry in high-grain beef cattle finishing diets was evaluated in two studies. In a randomized complete block design, 125 crossbred yearling heifers (365 +/- 0.3 kg initial BW; five pens per treatment; five heifers per pen) were used to evaluate PW level on feedlot performance and meat quality. Heifers were fed for 85 (two blocks) or 104 d (three blocks). In a digestion study, four ruminally, duodenally, and ileally cannulated Holstein steers (474.7 +/- 26.6 kg initial BW) were used in a 4 x 4 Latin square design to evaluate effects of PW level on ruminal fermentation, site of digestion, and microbial protein synthesis. The control diet for both studies contained 80% corn, 10% alfalfa hay, 5% concentrated separator by-product (CSB), and 5% supplement (DM basis). Potato waste replaced corn and separator by-product (DM basis) in the diet at 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40% in the feedlot study, and at 0, 13, 27, and 40% in the digestion study. In the feedlot study, DMI decreased (linear; P = 0.007) with increasing inclusion of PW. Increasing PW decreased ADG and feed efficiency from 0 to 30% and then increased at 40% (quadratic; P < 0.01). Calculated dietary NEg concentrations did not differ among treatments (P = 0.18). Hot carcass weight decreased as PW increased from 0 to 30% and then increased at 40% PW (cubic; P < 0.01). Fat thickness and longissimus muscle area decreased with increasing PW (linear; P < 0.05). Level of PW did not affect marbling or liver scores (P > 0.30). No difference (P > 0.20) was observed for Warner-Bratzler shear force at 0, 10, 20, and 30% PW levels; however, 40% PW resulted in lower (P = 0.05) shear force values. Taste panel scores for juiciness and flavor intensity did not differ with increasing PW (P > 0.30). Steaks from cattle fed 0% were scored less tender than 10 and 40% PW (cubic; P < 0.05). In the digestion study, DMI decreased (quadratic; P < 0.01) with increasing PW. Ruminal pH and total VFA concentration increased (linear; P < 0.05) and true N disappearance from the stomach complex and apparent total-tract N disappearance decreased with increasing level of PW (linear; P < 0.01). Starch intake and ruminal disappearance decreased with increasing level of PW (quadratic; P < 0.05). Inclusion of PW decreased feedlot performance, with little effect on carcass characteristics or meat quality. Optimal inclusion of PW in finishing diets may depend on the cost of transportation and other dietary ingredients.

Comparison of concentrated separator byproduct and cane molasses for finishing heifers (2003)

We compared concentrated separator byproduct (CSB) to cane molasses on feedlot performance and carcass merit of 394 crossbred yearling beef heifers fed for 148 days. Sugar beet molasses undergoes a process in which approximately half of the sugar is removed, concentrating protein and mineral in CSB. Compared with cane molasses, CSB has more crude protein, ash, and moisture. Two diets based on steam-flaked corn containing either CSB or cane molasses at 5% (dry matter basis) of the diet were fed. Feedlot performance was similar between heifers fed the two diets (P>0.23). Apparent dietary concentrations of net energy for gain (NEg), calculated from performance, were similar (P=0.21) for the CSB and cane molasses diets. The apparent NEg for cane molasses and CSB were not statistically different (P=0.20); the NEg concentrations of cane molasses and CSB were 0.21 and 0.50 ± 0.15 Mcal/lb, respectively. Carcass characteristics were similar between diets. Based on our data, CSB and cane molasses have a similar feeding value and energy content in beef finishing diets that are based on steam-flaked corn.

Supplemental betaine and peroxide-treated feather meal for finishing cattle1

These studies evaluated the effects of betaine, provided either as feed-grade betaine or as concentrated separator by-product (CSB; desugared beet molasses), on performance and carcass characteristics of finishing cattle. In Exp. 1, 175 steers (410 kg initial BW) were fed a finishing diet based on steam-flaked and dry-rolled corn, and treatments included 10.5 and 21 g/d feed-grade betaine and 250 and 500 g/d CSB (supplying 15.5 and 31 g/d of betaine, respectively). Steers fed feed-grade betaine had greater (linear and quadratic effects, P < 0.1) DMI than control steers, but ADG and gain efficiencies were not affected by treatment. Dressing percent and backfat thickness was greater (P < 0.1) for steers that received feed-grade betaine than for controls. Longissimus muscle area was lower (P < 0.1) for steers supplemented with either feed-grade betaine or CSB than for control steers. Yield grades were higher for cattle receiving feed-grade betaine (quadratic effect, P < 0.1) than for control steers. Marbling scores were not affected by supplemental betaine, but the percentage of carcasses grading USDA Select was lower (linear and quadratic effects, P < 0.1) for steers fed feed-grade betaine than for control steers, predominantly due to a greater percentage grading USDA Choice. In Exp. 2, 312 heifers (343 kg initial BW) were used in a finishing study to evaluate the effects of graded levels of feed-grade betaine and peroxide-treated feather meal on performance and carcass characteristics. Treatments included two finishing diets (containing peroxide-treated or untreated feather meal) and four levels (0, 4, 8, and 12 g/d) of feed-grade betaine arranged in a 2 × 4 factorial. No significant interactions occurred between treatment of feather meal and betaine. Treatment of feather meal with hydrogen peroxide (5% wt/wt) increased in situ protein degradability but did not alter DMI, ADG, gain efficiencies, or carcass characteristics of heifers when it replaced untreated feather meal in the diet. Top-dressing feed-grade betaine to the diets had no effect on DMI, ADG, and gain efficiencies. Marbling scores were greater (cubic effect, P < 0.05) for heifers fed diets top-dressed with 4 and 12 g/d of feed-grade betaine, but other carcass characteristics were not altered significantly. Overall, feed-grade betaine and CSB did not alter growth performance, but did have minor effects on carcass characteristics.

Effect of dietary inclusion of concentrated separator by-product and weaning management on performance of newly received feedlot steers

During the fall of two consecutive years, 260 newly received cross-bred steers ( 266.8 kg±1.6 kg initial body weight (BW)) were used to evaluate effect of concentrated separator by-product (CSB; de-sugared molasses) and weaning management on dry matter intake (DMI), growth, feed efficiency, and health. Steers were stratified by weight, and allotted randomly to treatment in a completely randomized design. Treatments were arranged in a 2×2 factorial; factors were dietary inclusion of CSB (0 or 5%, dry matter (DM) basis) and weaning management (weaned on the day of shipping, SHIP; and weaned 3–5 weeks prior to shipping, WEAN). The control diet contained 50% alfalfa-brome hay, 44% corn, and 6% supplement, while the diet with CSB contained 50% alfalfa-brome hay, 40.5% corn, 5% CSB, and 4.5% supplement (DM basis). Water was added to the diet without CSB at 6.3% of the as fed weight (equal to as fed level of CSB) to minimize differences in diet acceptability due to dustiness. Diets were formulated to contain a minimum 13.5% crude protein (CP) 0.7% Ca, 0.32% P, and 1.4% K (DM basis). Steers were fed for 27 days in year 1 and 28 days in year 2. Performance data were analyzed across years using the GLM procedure of SAS and health data were analyzed across years using χ 2. Steers fed 5% CSB gained 19% faster ( P=0.07) during days 1–14 and consumed 10% more feed throughout the trial ( P=0.006). WEAN steers were heavier ( P<0.001) and consumed more feed ( P<0.001). WEAN steers gained faster during the first 2 weeks ( P=0.02) and SHIP steers were more efficient during the second 2 weeks ( P=0.03). No effect of dietary CSB addition on morbidity ( P=0.24) or mortality ( P=0.93) occurred. Fewer WEAN steers ( P=0.06) were treated for signs of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) complex compared with SHIP steers. Addition of 5% CSB to diets fed to newly received feedlot calves increases DMI and calves weaned 3–5 weeks prior to shipping are healthier and consume more feed.

Supplemental betaine and peroxide-treated feather meal for finishing cattle.

These studies evaluated the effects of betaine, provided either as feed-grade betaine or as concentrated separator by-product (CSB; desugared beet molasses), on performance and carcass characteristics of finishing cattle. In Exp. 1, 175 steers (410 kg initial BW) were fed a finishing diet based on steam-flaked and dry-rolled corn, and treatments included 10.5 and 21 g/d feed-grade betaine and 250 and 500 g/d CSB (supplying 15.5 and 31 g/d of betaine, respectively). Steers fed feed-grade betaine had greater (linear and quadratic effects, P < 0.1) DMI than control steers, but ADG and gain efficiencies were not affected by treatment. Dressing percent and backfat thickness was greater (P < 0.1) for steers that received feed-grade betaine than for controls. Longissimus muscle area was lower (P < 0.1) for steers supplemented with either feed-grade betaine or CSB than for control steers. Yield grades were higher for cattle receiving feed-grade betaine (quadratic effect, P < 0.1) than for control steers. Marbling scores were not affected by supplemental betaine, but the percentage of carcasses grading USDA Select was lower (linear and quadratic effects, P < 0.1) for steers fed feed-grade betaine than for control steers, predominantly due to a greater percentage grading USDA Choice. In Exp. 2, 312 heifers (343 kg initial BW) were used in a finishing study to evaluate the effects of graded levels of feed-grade betaine and peroxide-treated feather meal on performance and carcass characteristics. Treatments included two finishing diets (containing peroxide-treated or untreated feather meal) and four levels (0, 4, 8, and 12 g/d) of feed-grade betaine arranged in a 2 x 4 factorial. No significant interactions occurred between treatment of feather meal and betaine. Treatment of feather meal with hydrogen peroxide (5% wt/wt) increased in situ protein degradability but did not alter DMI, ADG, gain efficiencies, or carcass characteristics of heifers when it replaced untreated feather meal in the diet. Top-dressing feed-grade betaine to the diets had no effect on DMI, ADG, and gain efficiencies. Marbling scores were greater (cubic effect, P < 0.05) for heifers fed diets top-dressed with 4 and 12 g/d of feed-grade betaine, but other carcass characteristics were not altered significantly. Overall, feed-grade betaine and CSB did not alter growth performance, but did have minor effects on carcass characteristics.

Effects of base ingredient in cooked molasses blocks on intake and digestion of prairie hay by beef steers.

Twelve steers (332 kg) were used in three simultaneous 4 x 3 incomplete Latin squares to evaluate effects of beet molasses (BEET), cane molasses (CANE), or concentrated separator by-product (CSB) as base ingredients in cooked molasses blocks on intake and digestion of prairie hay and ruminal characteristics. All steers had ad libitum access to prairie hay (5.9% CP and 69.4% NDF; DM basis). The four experimental treatments included a control (no supplement) and three cooked molasses blocks, based on BEET, CANE, or CSB, fed daily at .125% of BW (.42 kg/d as-fed, .13 kg/d CP). Forage OM, NDF, and N intakes; digestible OM, NDF, and N intakes; and total tract OM and N digestibilities (percentage of intake) were greater (P < .05) for steers fed cooked molasses blocks than for control steers. Total tract OM digestibility was greater (P < or = .06) for steers fed BEET blocks (54.0%) than for those fed CSB (52.1%) or CANE blocks (52.2%). Digestion of NDF was greatest (P < .05) for steers fed BEET blocks (51.9%) and tended to be greater (P < .07) for steers fed CANE (49.3%) or CSB blocks (49.3%) than for control steers (46.9%). Ruminal ammonia concentrations were greater (P < .05) for steers fed cooked molasses blocks (.89 mM) than for control steers (.21 mM); this was primarily due to increases to 4.6 mM at 2 h postfeeding for steers fed blocks. Concentrations of total VFA in ruminal fluid were greater (P < .05) for steers fed BEET (92.7 mM) and CSB (88.1 mM) blocks than for control steers (80.3 mM), whereas concentrations for steers fed CANE blocks were intermediate (85.4 mM). Steers supplemented with cooked molasses blocks had greater molar percentages of butyrate than did control steers, particularly shortly after feeding. In summary, supplementation with cooked molasses blocks increased forage intake and digestion. The three base ingredients elicited similar responses, although steers fed BEET had slightly greater OM and NDF digestibilities than those fed CANE or CSB.

In vitro degradation of betaine by ruminal microbes (2000)

An in vitro study was conducted to evaluate the degradation of betaine sources by rumen microbes. Five sources of betaine (anhydrous betaine, betaine-HCl, feed-grade betaine, lipidcoated betaine, and concentrated separator byproduct) were incubated in rumen fluid collected from steers fed grain- or forage-based diets. In vitro degradation of betaine was slower with the high roughage diet than the grain diet. Betaine from concentrated separator by-product was degraded most rapidly, but no large differences occurred among the other four sources. The disappearance of betaine from lipid-coated product indicates that it did not resist ruminal degradation. Although betaine from all sources was degraded, some still remained after 24 hours of incubation, suggesting that some betaine may bypass the rumen.

Effects of base ingredient in cooked molasses blocks on intake and digestion of prairie hay by beef steers (1998)

Blocks based on cooked beet molasses, cane molasses, or concentrated separator by-product, CSB) were tested to compare their effects on intake and digestion of prairie hay by beef steers. All blocks contained at least 30% crude protein. Steers fed the cooked molasses blocks consumed and 22% more forage than control steers, but forage intakes were not different among the three different blocks. Intakes of digestible organic matter and neutral detergent fiber, indicators of energy available to the steers, were increased 38 and 29% respectively, by block supple-mentation but were not different among the three blocks. However, total tract organic matter and neutral detergent fiber digestibilities, expressed as a percent of intake, were slightly higher for steers fed the beet molasses block than those fed the cane molasses block or the CSB block. In summary, supplementation with cooked molasses blocks that contained adequate degradable protein increased forage intake and digestion. Generally, blocks made from the different by-products elicited similar responses, though steers fed the beet molasses product tended to have greater digestibilities than those fed blocks made from cane molasses or concentrated separator by-product.

Betaine as a dietary supplement for finishing cattle (1998)

One hundred seventy five steers (902 lb feedlot cattle fed finishing diets may respond initial body weight) were used in a finishing positively to supplemental choline. However, study to determine the effect of betaine, choline is degraded extensively by ruminal provided either as feed-grade betaine bacteria, so it must be protected from ruminal (Betafin-S6, Finnsugar Bioproducts) or as fermentation. One function of choline is concentrated separator by-product (CSB; methyl donation via betaine. Ruminal degradesugared beet molasses), on animal perfordation of betaine may be somewhat slower mance and carcass characteristics. Steers than that of choline; thus, betaine may yield were fed a finishing diet based on steamresults similar to those with rumen protected flaked and dry-rolled corn. Treatments choline. In addition, betaine may possibly included 10.5 or 21 g/steer daily supplemenalter ruminal fermentation by serving as a tal feed-grade betaine or 250 g (15.5 betaine) source of either ruminally available nitrogen or 500 g (31 g betaine) of CSB per steer or methyl groups. Our objective was to daily. Dry matter intakes increased (linear, investigate the effect of betaine, provided P<0.1) for steers supplemented with feedeither as feed-grade betaine (Betafin-S6, grade betaine. Average daily gains and feed Finnsugar Bioproducts) or as a concentrated efficiencies were not affected by treatments. separator by-product (CSB), on animal perDressing percent and twelfth rib back fat formance and carcass characteristics. increased (P<0.1) for steers that received feed-grade betaine. Rib-eye area decreased (P<0.1) when steers were supplemented with either feed-grade betaine or CSB. Yield One hundred seventy five steers (902 lb grades were significantly higher (linear, initial body weight) were used in a randomP<0.1) for cattle receiving supplemental CSB ized complete block design. Steers were or feed-grade betaine (quadratic, P<.05). allotted to one of five blocks based on weight Hot carcass weights, KPH, marbling scores, and stratified by breed and weight to one of and percentage of carcasses grading USDA five pens within each block. The three Choice were not affected by supplemental heaviest blocks had five steers per pen (open betaine. In this study, betaine supplementfront barn), whereas the remaining two ation did not markedly alter growth perforhoused 10 steers per pen (uncovered). All mance, but carcass fatness tended to increase steers were implanted with Revalor -S and for both supplements. treated for external parasites using Boss

Effects of Concentrated Separator Dried Beet Pulp on Nutrient Digestibility, Milk Production, and Preference of Holstein Cattle ,

Concentrated separator by-product was fed to cattle to determine TDN, milk production, and feed preference. The TDN content of concentrated separator by-product was determined using a substitution method involving a basal diet of alfalfa and grass hay and a treatment diet of alfalfa and grass hay plus 10% added concentrated separator by-product. Four ruminally cannulated cows in a replicated 2 x 2 Latin square design were used. The estimated TDN content of concentrated separator by-product was 59.3%.Twenty midlactation dairy cows were fed either a control ration containing 20% molasses dried beet pulp or a treatment ration containing 20% concentrated separator by-product dried beet pulp. Cows in the treatment group produced significantly less daily milk and 3.5% FCM than the control group. Percentages of milk fat, protein, lactose, and SNF were not different between treatments.Eight Holstein heifers were used to determine feed preference. Heifers were given a choice among 20% molasses dried beet pulp (control) or 10, 15, or 30% concentrated separator by-product dried beet pulp. Heifers showed no preference between 10 or 15% concentrated separator by-product dried beet pulp and control, but preferred the control over the 30% concentrated separator by-product dried beet pulp.