The manual also enables lot feeders to look into other grain processing systems they may consider investing in.
A definitive guide to best practice grain processing methods and technologies for Australian feedlot cattle has been released by MLA.
The Best practice grain processing manual for Australian feedlot cattle is designed to be an A–Z reference guide for lot feeders.
Methods covered in the manual including dry rolling, sodium hydroxide treatment, tempering, steam flaking, high moisture harvest and storage, reconstitution and fermenting.
The manual was produced by a group of respected veterinarians and industry consultants including Robert Lawrence, Integrated Animal Production; Paul Cusack, Australian Livestock Production Services; John L Black, John L Black Consulting; William Scott, Cow Signals Australia; Kamilla Breinhild, Scibus; and Ahmad Rabiee, Cow Signals Australia.
Co-author, Robert Lawrence, said the manual is a tool to assist feedlot operators and their staff in setting guidelines, identifying outcome measurements, key operational procedures and best practice standards for these grain processing methods.
“It also provides a review of the Australian grains industry and the nutrient composition of grain as well as procedures and requirements relating to grain receival, handling and storage,” Robert said.
“The manual also enables lot feeders to look into other grain processing systems they may consider investing in.
“The industry is using cost-efficient grain processing methods already, but in saying that, rising electricity and fuel costs is an issue. As a result, there’s growing interest in increasing production capacity and investing in larger equipment, so lotfeeders can get more tonnes for the same amount of energy.
“There’s also growing interest in fermentation such as high moisture corn as a method of reducing power costs.
“The other trend in the industry will be the use of more technology in grain processing systems. Variation in grain is a big issue and grain processing systems are attempting to remove that variation. Technology such as near infrared spectroscopy (NIR) control and monitoring systems have the ability to really drive that.”
https://www.mla.com.au/news-and-events/industry-news/grain-processing-manual-released/