An experimental calf-starter diet containing roasted whole soybeans, buffer
and dehydrated alfalfa pellets was compared with a conventional calf starter for
young calves on an early-weaning program. Overall means for weight gains, dry
feed consumption, and fecal scores were similar for the two treatments. However,
calves fed the experimental calf starter showed a trend toward higher gains at 4
and 5 wk of age. More fat than necessary in the diet and feeding of prestarter
until 8 wk of age may have precluded finding significant benefits with the
experimental starter.