The effect of processed soybeans and added energy in calf starters on the growth of holstein calves

Abstract

In Trial 1, 91 Holstein calves were fed starters containing either soybean meal (SBM), extruded soybeans (ESB), roasted soybeans (RSB), SBM+soy oil (SO), or SBM+rumen inert fat (RIF) from birth to 10 wk of age. There were no differences in overall feed consumption, except that calves fed RSB consumed more than calves fed SBM+SO. There were no significant differences in weight gains, but calves fed SBM+SO tended to gain less. In trial 2, 71 Holstein calves were fed starters containing roasted soybeans from birth to 10 wk of age. Three of the starters contained 18% protein and soybeans roasted at 210, 260, or 290 F; the fourth starter contained 15% protein and soybeans roasted at 260 F. Calves fed starter containing soybeans roasted at 290 F consumed more feed, gained more weight, and were more efficient in converting feed and energy to gain than were the other calves fed 18% protein. Feed consumption was high and gains were intermediate by calves fed starter containing 15% protein. Growth in body size correlated with weight gains.