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February, 2008

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Dairy - Building on Milk Protein
(Value of Porcine Meat & Bone Meal)

Dr. Mike Hutjens, Dairy Extension Specialist at the University of Illinois, recently completed a review of protein supplements and their value in dairy diets. Protein prices have increased due to increased corn and reduced soybean acerage in the U.S. Distillers grain, wet brewers, corn gluten feed and pork meat & bone meal can be economical protein sources. Listed below is his table showing breakeven prices for various protein ingredients. Note the value of porcine meat and bone meal over that of soybean meal. Porcine meat & bone meal, along with porcine blood meal are excellent sources of bypass lysine. Their correct use in dairy diets can lead to an improved milk protein component level. That can add 30 to 50 cents per cwt. to the milk value per Dr. Hutjens. Amino acid balancing can lower levels of crude protein required in the diet while increasing milk volume and components. Attention to the level of RDP (rumen degradable protein) and RUP (rumen undegraded protein) can also help in one or more of the following benefits.

1. An increase in milk yield (4 to 5 pounds), milk protein test (0.1 to 0.2 percentage points), and/or milk fat (0.1 to 0.3 percentage points).
2. The level of crude protein in the ration dry matter may be lowered to 16.5 percent saving 20 to 40 cents per cow per day.
3. An improvement in feed efficiency by 0.08 units which can increase profit by 15 to 20 cents per cow daily.
4. Lower metabolic disorders such as fatty liver and conversion of ammonia to urea in the liver.
5. An increase in fertility based on lower blood urea nitrogen (BUN).

Break even prices of various protein ingredients

The breakeven prices shown in the table are based on $3.50/bushel corn, $300/ton for 44% soybean meal, 26 cents/ pound for tallow, $10/ton for limestone (calcium value) and $26/ton for phosphorus value. Any of the above protein ingredients should be part of a complete balanced diet in order to take advantage of their value. A Hormel Feeds dairy specialist can help you take advantage of the potential savings and improved production of components available. If you would like a complete copy of Dr. Hutjens' report please contact your nearest Hormel Feeds representative or contact us at www.hormelfeeds.com.

REF: Building on Milk Protein; Dr. Mike Hutjens; University of Illinois; 2007.

For More Information
Contact:
Hormel Foods Corporation
Feed Division
1 Hormel Place
Austin, MN 55912
PH: 800-533-2228
Website: www.hormelfeeds.com