Comparing the Energy Value of Wet Distillers Grains to Dry Rolled Corn in High Forage Diets

Authors

Brandon L. Nuttelman, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Matt K. Luebbe, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Terry J. Klopfenstein, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Joshua R. Benton, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Galen E. Erickson, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2010

Comments

Published in 2009 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report (Lincoln, NE: December, 2008). Copyright © 2008 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska.

Abstract

Sixty crossbred steers were used to compare the energy value of wet distillers grains (WDGS) to dry rolled corn (DRC) in high forage diets at three levels. DRC was included at 22.0, 41.0, and 60.0% of the diet (DM), and WDGS was included at 15.0, 25.0, and 35.0% of the diet (DM). Diets were formulated to meet degradable intake protein and metabolizable protein requirements. Cattle consuming WDGS gained more than DRC cattle. Average daily gain increased with increasing levels of DRC and WDGS. The energy value of WDGS was calculated using the National Research Council model (1996). In this study, the energy value of WDGS was calculated to be 146, 149, and 142% the energy value of DRC