Due to the heat and drought conditions, some barley crops have test weights as low as 40 pounds per bushel. How does the quality compare to the normal 48 pound barley?
With a lower bushel weight, protein content is usually higher. Some as high as 16 to 17% because there is less starch in the kernels. The starch to protein ratio is lower than normal. The percentage of ash and fibre increases because the hull weight is higher compared to the starch that is present.
Light weight grain can be fed to backgrounding calves, replacement heifers, and cows. Animal performance is not impacted until bushel weights are below 42 pounds. Below this weight, there is a 1% reduction in average daily gain and feed conversion efficiency for every pound below 42 pounds. For example, 37 pound barley has a 5% reduction in efficiency. Feeding an extra 5% by weight is needed to make up the difference.
When processing barley, the roller should be set to obtain a product that has a bushel weight between 75 to 81% of the whole grain. If different weight barleys are binned together; and the roller is set for the heavy grain, then the lightweight grain passes through unprocessed. Feed conversion efficiency is reduced by 12 to 15% for the whole grain. If set for the lightweight grain, then the heavy barley is over processed which can increase the problems with bloat, acidosis, or grain overload depending on how much grain is being fed. Binning light weight barley separate from heavier barley is recommended.
Markets for lightweight barley can be limited. In these situations, discounts can occur. In some cases, it may be between 10 and 25% of regular weight barley. This is an opportunity to purchase lightweight grain and reduce feed costs.
For additional information on using lightweight barley in cattle rations, contact Barry at 403-741-6032 or bjyaremcio@gmail.com
Comments