February 10, 2010

NWF launches new feed system for cattle

Feed compounders North West Farmers (NWF) has launched the new Rumen Performance Management (RPM) system, a new diet concept that balances rates at which feeds are fermented in the rumen.

The new system is based on the latest approaches to feed technology being developed in the US and Europe.

This new system could finally put UK dairy farmers on the road to feeding their cows in the most efficient and profitable way, said NWF technical manager Tom Hough.

The RPM system ensures better rumen synchrony and a better matching of digestive end products to meet the cows' requirements. Rapid protein and energy synchronisation will address the imbalances that put cows under stress. The RPM system will improve feed efficiency and rumen health while reducing wastage, said Hough.

The research, undertaken by Dutch firm Nutreco, could create a dietary system that has a big impact on reducing acidosis caused by varying rates of fermentation in the rumen.

The system allows a diet to be produced which ensures the correct balance of fast and slowly fermented energy and protein constituents, and ensures diets do not compromise rumen health, said Hough. RPM also allows closer scrutiny of diets, giving clues to the source of problems, thus allowing corrective action to be taken.