Minerals program
Minerals program
A NEW computer program should help producers ensure they are feeding appropriate levels of minerals in rations.
Launched at the EDFE, Alltechs Herd Specific Mineral Program aims to provide tailored recommendations for individual dairy herds or cow groups.
According to the companys Nick Adams, a high percentage of rations checked using the program showed some level of trace element and/or mineral imbalance. "A high proportion of the shelf minerals are sold, they dont take into account what the herd is being fed."
He added that under-supply could create deficiencies, while over-supply is unnecessarily wasteful. The program is being sent to Alltech distributors, who will run it on farmers behalf, and will be able to establish the optimum mineral and trace element profile.