Nutritional strategies for improved beef cattle performance: A focus on corn utilization

Abstract

The pursuit of optimizing feed efficiency in beef cattle has led to investigations into various corn hybrids and processing methods. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Enogen corn, known for its increased expression of alpha-amylase, in comparison to conventional corn, and to assess effects of dry-rolled versus steam-flaked processing on feedlot cattle performance. Two complementary experiments were conducted. Experiment 1 was an animal trial involving 960 crossbred beef steers, in a randomized complete block design with a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement, where steers were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups. Experiment 2 was an in vitro investigation examining ruminal fermentation dynamics using a 2 x 2 factorial design. In Experiment 1, it was hypothesized that Enogen corn would improve growth performance, and feed efficiency, and evaluate if EC when dry-rolled would lessen the need for steam flaking. Results indicated that cattle fed steam-flaked either EC or CC, had the heavier final body weight (P<0.01). Enogen corn when steam-flaked or dry-rolled, and steam-flaked CC presented improved average daily gain (P=0.012), and G:F ratio (P<0.01) compared to the conventional corn when it is dry-rolled. Heavier carcasses (P<0.01) were observed for the treatments that included steam-flaked EC or CC. Dry matter intake was similar among cattle fed different diets (P=0.269). Experiment 2, focused on in vitro fermentation of Enogen corn processed through dry rolling or steam flaking, and compared to conventional corn. Results indicated that steam-flaked EC or CC presented lower gas production (P=0.043). Enogen corn when steam flaked had the lowest t1/2 (P=0.027). Conventional corn when steam-flaked had the highest acetate to propionate ratio (P<0.01). Volatile fatty acid production was not affected by the interaction. In conclusion, dry-rolled Enogen corn is an alternative to steam-flaking while reducing the cost of the steam flake process. Similarly, in an in vitro system, dry-rolled Enogen corn performed similarly to steam-flaking.