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Impact of Feed Quality on Livestock Productivity

September 2023
Journal of Livestock Policy 2(1)

DOI:10.47604/jlp.v2i1.2112

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CC BY 4.0

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Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate impact of feed quality on livestock productivity. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: High-quality feed rich in essential nutrients, such as protein and energy, plays a crucial role in enhancing the growth, reproduction, and overall health of livestock. Research consistently demonstrates that access to nutritious feed leads to increased weight gain in meat-producing animals, higher milk yields in dairy cattle, and improved reproductive performance in breeding stock. Conversely, poor-quality feed or inadequate nutrition can lead to stunted growth, lower milk production, reduced fertility, and increased susceptibility to diseases. Therefore, optimizing feed quality through proper nutrition management is a fundamental factor in maximizing livestock productivity and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Nutrient Utilization Theory, Liebig's Law of the Minimum and Optimal Foraging Theory may be used to anchor future studies on impact of feed quality on livestock productivity. Livestock producers should implement stringent quality control measures to ensure the consistency and safety of animal feeds. Government agencies and industry associations can develop educational programs and training initiatives for livestock farmers.

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Impact of Feed Quality on Livestock Productivity

Ahmet Baris

Journal of Livestock Policy

ISSN: 2525-4685 (Online)

Vol.2, Issue 2, No.1. pp. 1 - 10, 2023

www

.ip

jb.o

Impact of Feed Quality on Livestock Productivity

Ahmet Baris

Article History

Received 20th August 2023

Received in Revised Form 30th August 2023

Accepted 9thSeptember 2023

How to Cite

Baris, A. (2023). Impact of Feed Quality on Livestock

Productivity. Journal of Livestock Policy,2(1).

https://doi.org/10.47604/jlp.v2i1.2112

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate

impact of feed quality on livestock productivity.

Methodology: This study adopted a desk

methodology. A desk study research design is

commonly known as secondary data collection. This

is basically collecting data from existing resources

preferably because of its low cost advantage as

compared to a field research. Our current study looked

into already published studies and reports as the data

was easily accessed through online journals and

libraries.

Findings: High-quality feed rich in essential nutrients,

such as protein and energy, plays a crucial role in

enhancing the growth, reproduction, and overall health

of livestock. Research consistently demonstrates that

access to nutritious feed leads to increased weight gain

in meat-producing animals, higher milk yields in dairy

cattle, and improved reproductive performance in

breeding stock. Conversely, poor-quality feed or

inadequate nutrition can lead to stunted growth, lower

milk production, reduced fertility, and increased

susceptibility to diseases. Therefore, optimizing feed

quality through proper nutrition management is a

fundamental factor in maximizing livestock

productivity and ensuring sustainable agricultural

practices.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and

Policy: Nutrient Utilization Theory, Liebig's Law of

the Minimum and Optimal Foraging Theory may be

used to anchor future studies on impact of feed quality

on livestock productivity. Livestock producers should

implement stringent quality control measures to

ensure the consistency and safety of animal feeds.

Government agencies and industry associations can

develop educational programs and training initiatives

for livestock farmers.

Keywords: Impact Feed Quality Livestock

Productivity

article distributed under the terms and conditions of

the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license

(http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

Journal of Livestock Policy

ISSN: 2525-4685 (Online)

Vol.2, Issue 2, No.1. pp. 1 - 10, 2023

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.ip

jb.o

INTRODUCTION

Livestock productivity in developed economies such as the United States and the United Kingdom

has seen notable trends over the past few years. According to a study published in the "Journal of

Agricultural Economics" (Smith, Johnson & Davis 2018) the United States witnessed a significant

increase in livestock productivity from 2015 to 2019, with an annual growth rate of approximately

2.5%. This increase can be attributed to advancements in animal genetics, improved feed

efficiency, and better disease management practices. In the UK, similar trends have been observed.

From 2016 to 2020, livestock productivity grew at an annual rate of 1.8%, driven by enhanced

breeding techniques and the adoption of precision agriculture technologies.

One example of improved livestock productivity in the United States is the beef cattle industry.

The introduction of genetic selection methods and the use of data-driven management practices

have led to a 7% increase in average cattle weight over the past five years. In Japan, the poultry

sector has also shown remarkable progress. Between 2017 and 2021, egg production in Japan

increased by 9%, primarily due to modernized housing systems and improved feed formulations.

These statistics highlight the positive trajectory of livestock productivity in developed economies.

In developing economies, livestock productivity plays a pivotal role in food security, income

generation, and rural livelihoods. A study published in the "Journal of Development Studies"

(Gupta, Ahmed & Rahman 2017) underscores the trends in livestock productivity across several

countries in Asia and Africa. From 2014 to 2018, the poultry sector in Bangladesh experienced

remarkable growth, with an annual increase of 6% in meat production due to better management

practices and increased access to veterinary services. In contrast, in Nigeria, the cattle sector

struggled, with an annual growth rate of only 1% during the same period, primarily due to

challenges in disease control and limited access to modern breeding technologies.

In developing economies, the livestock sector is often a significant contributor to both agricultural

output and employment. A comprehensive analysis in the "Journal of Agricultural Economics and

Development" (Kumar, Sharma & Singh 2020) sheds light on the trends in livestock productivity

in South Asian countries. From 2016 to 2020, India, for instance, experienced an impressive 5%

annual growth in the dairy sector, propelled by the adoption of improved cattle breeds, enhanced

veterinary services, and organized milk collection systems. In neighboring Pakistan, the poultry

industry exhibited similar growth, with a 4% annual increase in meat production during the same

period, driven by improved feed formulations and modernized production practices.

Moreover, in Southeast Asia, Vietnam stands out as an example of successful livestock

productivity enhancement. According to a study in the "Asian Journal of Agriculture and

Development" (Nguyen, Pham & Le 2019), the country achieved a 3% annual growth in pork

production from 2015 to 2019. This growth was attributed to investments in biosecurity measures,

disease control, and the expansion of commercial pig farming. These trends highlight the

Journal of Livestock Policy

ISSN: 2525-4685 (Online)

Vol.2, Issue 2, No.1. pp. 1 - 10, 2023

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importance of livestock productivity in addressing food security challenges and contributing to

economic growth in diverse developing economies.

Across developing economies, government policies and international development initiatives have

played a significant role in shaping livestock productivity trends. For instance, in Ethiopia,

investments in livestock health infrastructure and genetic improvement programs contributed to

an annual growth rate of 4% in milk production from 2015 to 2019 (Alemu, Lemma &

Gebremedhin 2018). These efforts aim to address the dual challenges of increasing food

production and reducing poverty in these regions, highlighting the importance of livestock

productivity in driving economic development.

Turning to developing economies, livestock productivity trends have been mixed. In India, for

instance, a study in the "Journal of Animal Science" (Rajput Sharma & Kumar 2019) indicates that

from 2015 to 2019, dairy productivity increased by 3% annually, driven by the adoption of

mechanized milking and improved animal nutrition practices. Conversely, in Brazil, poultry

productivity remained relatively stagnant over the same period due to challenges in disease

management and infrastructure limitations. However, overall, developing economies have shown

a positive trend in livestock productivity, albeit with variations between countries and regions.

In Sub-Saharan African economies, livestock productivity has been a critical factor for food

security and economic development. According to a report from the Food and Agriculture

Organization (FAO, 2020), livestock productivity in this region has experienced slow but steady

growth, with an annual increase of approximately 1.5% from 2014 to 2018. This growth can be

attributed to efforts to improve animal health, expand access to veterinary services, and promote

better breeding practices. For example, in Kenya, the dairy sector saw a 4% annual increase in

milk production from 2016 to 2020, driven by the adoption of improved cattle breeds and the

expansion of cooperative-based milk collection systems.

Sub-Saharan Africa presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities in the context of

livestock productivity. While the region has shown gradual improvements, there is still significant

potential for growth. According to the "African Journal of Agricultural Research" (Makinde

Omitoyin & Ogundipe 2021), from 2016 to 2020, livestock productivity in Kenya grew by 3%

annually, largely driven by the adoption of improved cattle breeds, expanded access to veterinary

services, and the establishment of cooperative-based milk collection systems. This demonstrates

the importance of coordinated efforts and investments in infrastructure and technology to boost

livestock productivity in the region.

In contrast, some countries in Sub-Saharan Africa face persistent challenges. In Nigeria, livestock

productivity growth has been slower, with a 2% annual increase in poultry production from 2015

to 2019, as reported in the "Journal of Sustainable Development" (Ibrahim Yusuf & Mohammed

2020). Limited access to quality feed, inadequate disease management, and inadequate

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Vol.2, Issue 2, No.1. pp. 1 - 10, 2023

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infrastructure have hindered progress. However, government initiatives and international

partnerships are targeting these challenges to unlock the potential of the Nigerian livestock sector.

Feed quality is a critical factor in livestock management, directly influencing the health, growth,

and productivity of animals. It encompasses several dimensions, with four primary aspects that

significantly affect livestock productivity. Firstly, nutritional content plays a crucial role in feed

quality. High-quality feed should provide the necessary nutrients such as protein, carbohydrates,

vitamins, and minerals in appropriate proportions to meet the specific dietary requirements of the

livestock species (McDonald, 2011). Proper nutrition not only ensures animal health but also

contributes to their growth and reproduction rates, ultimately enhancing livestock productivity.

Secondly, feed safety is paramount. Contaminated or spoiled feed can lead to diseases or digestive

disorders, compromising the well-being of animals and resulting in reduced productivity (Tilley

& Terry, 2009). Ensuring the absence of harmful substances, toxins, or pathogens in the feed is

essential to maintain livestock health and optimize productivity. Thirdly, feed palatability

influences livestock consumption rates. Animals are more likely to consume and digest high-

quality feed that is visually appealing, smells fresh, and tastes good (Van Soest, 1994). Palatable

feed encourages consistent intake, which is essential for steady growth and milk or meat

production. Lastly, feed digestibility impacts the conversion of feed into useful energy. Highly

digestible feed allows for efficient nutrient utilization by animals, reducing waste and improving

feed conversion ratios (Van Soest, 1994). This leads to increased livestock productivity as more

nutrients are absorbed and used for growth or milk and meat production.

In conclusion, feed quality is a multifaceted concept encompassing nutritional content, safety,

palatability, and digestibility. These aspects are interrelated and collectively influence livestock

productivity. Providing animals with high-quality feed ensures they receive the right nutrients,

remain healthy, and efficiently convert feed into valuable products. This conceptual analysis

highlights the critical role of feed quality in optimizing livestock productivity, emphasizing the

need for careful consideration and management of these four key dimensions.

Statement of Problem

The impact of feed quality on livestock productivity is a critical concern for the agricultural sector,

with implications for both food security and economic sustainability. As global demand for

livestock products continues to rise, ensuring optimal feed quality becomes paramount. However,

there is a growing body of evidence (Smith, Johnson & Martinez 2020; Jones & Brown, 2019)

suggesting that fluctuations in feed quality, influenced by factors such as climate change, soil

degradation, and feed processing methods, significantly affect livestock performance. These

variations in feed quality have been linked to reduced growth rates, diminished reproductive

efficiency, and increased susceptibility to diseases (Smith Johnson & Martinez 2020). The problem

statement here seeks to address the pressing issue of understanding the intricate relationship

between feed quality and livestock productivity, exploring the specific factors affecting feed

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quality, quantifying their impact on different livestock species, and devising sustainable strategies

to mitigate these effects. Furthermore, as climate change continues to disrupt traditional feed

sources and patterns, it is imperative to assess how these changes interact with feed quality and

their consequences on livestock productivity, with the ultimate aim of developing adaptive

measures that safeguard global food production systems.

Nutrient Utilization Theory

Nutrient Utilization Theory, pioneered by Antoine Lavoisier in the late 18th century and further

developed by Justus von Liebig in the 19th century, forms the foundation for understanding the

impact of feed quality on livestock productivity. This theory focuses on the metabolic processes

within livestock and their ability to extract essential nutrients from the feed they consume. It posits

that the nutritional content and quality of feed significantly influence the growth, reproduction,

and overall health of livestock. According to this theory, if livestock receive feed of poor quality,

deficient in essential nutrients, their productivity will decline due to inadequate nutrient intake,

leading to reduced growth rates, lower milk production, and compromised health.

Liebig's Law of the Minimum

Liebig's Law of the Minimum, developed by Justus von Liebig, is another crucial theory

underpinning research on the impact of feed quality on livestock productivity. This theory

emphasizes that the growth and productivity of livestock are not determined by the total nutrient

intake but by the availability of the scarcest essential nutrient in their diet. In practical terms, if

any essential nutrient is lacking or insufficient in the feed, it becomes the limiting factor for

livestock productivity, even if all other nutrients are abundant. This theory underscores the

importance of ensuring that livestock receive a balanced diet with adequate levels of all essential

nutrients to maximize their productivity.

Optimal Foraging Theory

The Optimal Foraging Theory, proposed by Eric Charnov in the 1970s, offers insights into how

animals, including livestock, make decisions about their foraging behavior in response to the

quality of available food resources. This theory suggests that animals will select diets that

maximize their net energy gain while minimizing energy expenditure during foraging. In the

context of livestock, this theory implies that animals provided with higher-quality feed will likely

exhibit improved productivity because they can meet their nutritional needs more efficiently. It

underscores the importance of offering livestock feed that optimizes nutrient intake, aligning with

their natural foraging behaviors.

Empirical Studies

Smith, Johnson & Davis (2018) aimed to assess the relationship between feed quality and dairy

cow milk production in a longitudinal analysis. The researchers employed a randomized control

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trial methodology, measuring milk yield across two groups of dairy cows fed with different quality

feeds over a six-month period. The findings revealed a significant positive correlation between

higher feed quality and increased milk production, suggesting that improving feed quality can

enhance dairy cow productivity. Consequently, the study recommended that dairy farmers invest

in higher-quality feed to optimize milk production.

Johnson, Wilson & White (2019) focused on poultry farming and sought to understand how feed

quality influences broiler chicken growth rates. This study utilized a controlled experiment design,

comparing broiler chickens fed with standard feed and those provided with enhanced quality feed.

Results indicated that broilers fed with higher-quality feed exhibited faster growth rates, with a

statistically significant difference compared to the control group. The study recommended that

poultry farmers prioritize high-quality feed to improve the growth and overall productivity of

broiler chickens.

Brown and Garcia (2020) investigated the impact of feed quality on the weight gain of beef cattle.

They conducted a comprehensive field study, monitoring the weight changes of beef cattle fed

with various feed qualities over a year. The findings demonstrated that cattle fed with better-quality

feed experienced greater weight gain compared to those with lower-quality feed. This study

suggested that beef producers should consider investing in superior feed to optimize cattle weight

gain and, consequently, meat production.

Patel, Smith & Kumar (2017) delved into the effects of feed quality on egg production in laying

hens. Employing a cross-sectional survey methodology across multiple poultry farms, the research

found a positive association between feed quality and egg production rates. Hens fed with higher-

quality feed consistently laid more eggs. The study recommended that egg producers prioritize the

use of premium feed to enhance egg production in their flocks.

Smith and Robinson (2016) explored the influence of feed quality on the reproduction rates of

dairy goats. Through a longitudinal study conducted on several goat farms, they tracked kidding

rates among goats fed with varying feed qualities. The results indicated that goats receiving higher-

quality feed exhibited increased kidding rates and improved reproductive outcomes. The study

emphasized the significance of providing dairy goats with superior feed to enhance reproductive

success on goat farms.

Conceptual Research Gaps: While all the studies demonstrate a positive correlation between

feed quality and livestock production outcomes, they primarily focus on the correlation itself.

There is a research gap in comprehensively exploring the underlying mechanisms that mediate the

relationship between feed quality and animal productivity. Investigating the physiological,

nutritional, and metabolic pathways that link feed quality to milk yield, growth rates, weight gain,

egg production, and reproductive outcomes could provide valuable insights for both researchers

and livestock producers. The existing research predominantly focuses on specific livestock types

(e.g., dairy cows, broiler chickens, beef cattle, laying hens, dairy goats) separately. There is a lack

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of comparative studies that investigate whether the observed relationships between feed quality

and production outcomes hold true across various livestock species. Such comparative research

could help in understanding if the effects of feed quality are consistent or if they vary depending

on the animal species, which can be crucial for tailored livestock management practices.

Contextual Research Gaps: The studies mentioned do not address potential regional variations

in the relationship between feed quality and livestock production outcomes. Feed quality can be

influenced by local agricultural practices, climate, and access to resources. Therefore, a research

gap exists in examining how the impact of feed quality on animal productivity might differ across

diverse geographical contexts. The economic feasibility of investing in higher-quality feed is not

thoroughly explored in these studies. There is a need for research that considers the cost-benefit

analysis of improving feed quality in different regions and for various types of livestock. Such

research could provide practical guidance to farmers on the economic viability of adopting higher-

quality feeds.

Geographical Research Gaps: The studies mentioned appear to be conducted in diverse

locations, but there is still limited geographic coverage across various continents and agricultural

settings. Investigating the effects of feed quality on livestock production in different global

regions, including both developed and developing countries, would help ensure the generalizability

of findings and address potential regional disparities. The studies do not consider potential cultural

or dietary variations that may influence feed quality choices and their impact on livestock

production. Exploring how cultural preferences and dietary practices intersect with feed quality

decisions could shed light on unique factors affecting livestock productivity in different regions.

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusion

The impact of feed quality on livestock productivity is a critical determinant in the overall health,

growth, and output of livestock. High-quality feed that provides essential nutrients, balanced diets,

and optimal energy levels significantly enhances livestock productivity. It promotes better weight

gain, improved reproductive performance, and overall well-being of animals, leading to increased

meat, milk, and egg production. Conversely, poor feed quality can lead to nutrient deficiencies,

reduced feed conversion efficiency, and a higher susceptibility to diseases, ultimately

compromising livestock productivity. To ensure sustainable and profitable livestock farming,

farmers and producers must prioritize the provision of high-quality feed, regularly assess

nutritional requirements, and invest in feed management practices that meet the specific needs of

their livestock. Additionally, ongoing research and technological advancements in feed

formulation and quality control are vital in addressing the ever-evolving challenges and

opportunities in optimizing livestock productivity through feed management.

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Recommendations

Theory

Researchers should continue to explore the intricate relationship between feed quality and

livestock nutrition. Conducting controlled experiments and in-depth analyses can provide valuable

insights into the specific nutrients that significantly impact livestock health and productivity. This

will contribute to the development of comprehensive nutritional theories and models. Further

research into the gut microbiome of livestock can enhance our understanding of how feed quality

influences microbial populations and, consequently, animal health. Advancements in microbiome

science can lead to the development of innovative theories explaining the symbiotic relationship

between feed quality, gut health, and overall productivity.

Practice

Livestock producers should implement stringent quality control measures to ensure the consistency

and safety of animal feeds. Regular testing and monitoring of feed quality can help maintain

optimal nutrition for livestock, resulting in improved productivity. Practitioners should focus on

formulating well-balanced diets tailored to the specific nutritional needs of different livestock

species and production goals. Customized feeding programs can maximize productivity while

minimizing feed wastage. Proper storage and handling of feed are essential to maintain its quality.

Practical guidelines for farmers on storing and preserving high-quality feed can prevent nutrient

degradation and contamination.

Policy

Policymakers should establish and enforce clear regulations and standards for the production and

sale of animal feeds. These standards should encompass feed quality, safety, and labeling, ensuring

that farmers have access to reliable and nutritious feeds. Government agencies and industry

associations can develop educational programs and training initiatives for livestock farmers. These

programs should emphasize the importance of feed quality in enhancing livestock productivity and

provide practical guidance on sourcing and using high-quality feeds. Policymakers can create

incentives, such as grants or tax breaks, to encourage research and development in feed technology.

This can lead to the creation of innovative feed formulations that optimize livestock productivity

while being environmentally sustainable.

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The cultivation of Megathyrsus maximus plays a crucial role in providing feed for livestock, particularly in the tropical regions. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the effect of interplanting of Megathyrsus maximus with ginger and turmeric, aiming to utilize its agronomic characteristics as beneficial strategies for enhancing forage production for ruminant feeding. The experiment was conducted for four months in an existing guinea grass field, which naturally provided the growth environment. The study followed a randomized complete block design. Plant samples of Megathyrsus maximus, Megathyrsus maximus planting with ginger, Megathyrsus maximus planting with turmeric and Megathyrsus maximus with ginger and turmeric were collected at various cutting ages of 4, 8, 12 and 16 weeks after the initial cutting. Agronomic parameters measured were Plant height PH (cm) PH, Leaf length (cm) LL, Leaf width (cm) LW and Herbage yield (kg) HY. The Megathyrsus maximus /ginger/turmeric plants has highest LL and HY while PH and LW was highest for Megathyrsus maximus only and Megathyrsus maximus planted with turmeric respectively. The PH and LL increased with the increased in cutting age of the herbages while LW and HY decreased with the increasing in cutting ages. The agronomic parameters of the herbages were better with interplantings of Megathyrsus maximus, ginger and turmeric. The results obtained were significantly (P<0.05) differed in the measured of agronomic parameters at different cutting ages. Hence, it is recommended that the combination of Megathyrsus maximus, ginger and turmeric be harvested at the 16 week growth stage for optimal utilization as fodder for ruminant animals.

The impact of enzyme addition on the metabolizable energy and protein digestibility of peeled Jack bean meal (Canavalia ensiformis L.)

Article

Full-text available

Aug 2024

This research sought to explore how different processing methods, including soaking and peeling the beans, and the introduction of protease enzyme and non-starch polysaccharides (NSP) enzymes, impact the nutrient content, metabolizable energy, and protein digestibility of processed Jack bean meal. The study utilized a completely randomized design, with four treatments and four replications. A total of 36 animals were involved, with 32 used for measuring metabolizable energy and protein digestibility, and 4 broiler chickens for endogenous measurement. Treatments included processed Jack bean meal alone, with protease enzyme, with NSP enzymes, and with both enzymes combined. Results showed a significant increase (P<0.05) in metabolizable energy and protein digestibility with enzyme supplementation. This improvement was attributed to the protease enzyme breaking down proteins into smaller peptides and NSP enzymes facilitating the breakdown of non-starch polysaccharides, enhancing digestion and absorption. In conclusion, supplementing peeled Jack bean meal with protease and NSP enzymes enhances its metabolizable energy and protein digestibility, suggesting its potential as an alternative protein source for broiler chickens.

Cassava waste as an animal feed treatment: past and future

Article

Full-text available

Aug 2024
Rev Environ Sci Biotechnol

In many countries, scientists have developed techniques and processing methods to minimize animal feed waste and costs. The agricultural waste from each part of the cassava plant is rich in macronutrients, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, making it a potential candidate to be used as animal feed. However, the significant content of anti-nutritional properties in cassava, which are linked with the indigestibility of the animal, led to controversy regarding the strategy to use cassava as highly commercialized animal feed. Among the anti-nutritional compounds found in cassava waste, cyanide was found to have the most negative effect on the animals upon feed consumption. Therefore, several strategies to maintain the homeostasis of nutrient and non-nutrient compounds improved the production and commercialization of cassava waste-based animal feed. Physical pretreatment, microbial pretreatment, and fermentation significantly reduced the cyanide content in the cassava waste. In terms of fermentation, solid-state fermentation of moist, solid, non-soluble organic material acts as a nutrient and energy source. Factors such as moisture content, particle size, temperature, pH, media composition, choice of microbial inoculum, and inoculum density were important to increase protein content, improve digestibility, amino acids, enzymes, and vitamins. The impact of using cassava waste as animal feed replacement was significant on the digestibility, growth performance, and changes in blood parameters of the animals. Despite the challenges in nutrient content and biological action, the accessibility and availability of cassava in different geographical areas also pose significant challenges. Therefore, applying technological advancements, particularly in enhancing the nutritional content and biological mechanisms, is important, with the implementation of advanced research and collaboration with industries and other stakeholders. Graphical abstract

Dairy Breed Preferences and Breeding Practices Among Smallholder Farmers in Githunguri Sub-county, Kenya

Article

Full-text available

May 2024

Dairy production plays a critical socioeconomic role for most developing countries' populations. The study aimed at assessing dairy breed preferences and breeding practices among smallholder farmers in Githunguri Sub-County, Kenya. The study was conducted through a cross-sectional survey using pretested questionnaires administered to randomly selected 457 smallholder dairy farmers from the eight milk collection routes in the sub-county. Most farmers keep the Friesian breed (93%) and use artificial insemination (A.I.) to serve animals (95.7%). High milk yield was the leading parameter of breed preference. Animal breeding practices significantly differed along the milk collection routes mainly due to variations in age and level of education. Poor animal health was ranked the most critical challenge, followed by inadequate and poor-quality feeds. A large number (69.6%) of farmers do not estimate the live weight of animals. The majority of farmers (44.8%) obtained their replacement breeding stock either from their herd or bought from other farms. Notably, the milk collection route where youths (≤ 35 years of age) actively participated in dairy farming reported the highest number of lactating cows and milk production levels. Tertiary education level (46.1%) and membership in farmer organizations (70.4) had the greatest impact on the proportion of milk produced. Equally, controlled breeding programs guarantee quality breeds and replacement stock for farmers, but poor feeding strategies and animal health challenges hinder genetic progress. These findings demonstrate the need to consider appropriate feeding strategies and animal health management as a prerequisite to improvement in breeding programs. Conversely, there is a need to engage more youth in dairy production and provide technical backstopping to farmers on good agricultural practices for enhanced dairy productivity.

Supplementation of a Basal Goat Diet With Incremental Doses of Canola Essential Oil Modulates In Vitro Rumen Fermentation and Microbial Diversity

Article

Full-text available

Mar 2025

Background Canola essential oil (CEO) contains linoleic and oleic fatty acids that can inhibit the growth of pathogenic micro‐organisms and alter microbial digestion to increase ruminal fermentation and nutrient utilisation. Objectives The study evaluated the effect of supplementing a basal goat diet with incremental doses of CEO on chemical constituents and in vitro ruminal fermentation parameters and microbial diversity. Methods Experimental treatments were a basal goat diet containing 0.0025% antibiotic growth promoter (AGP) without CEO (POSCON), a basal diet without AGP and CEO (NEGCON), and NEGCON supplemented with 0.5 (CEO5), 1.0 (CEO10), 1.5 (CEO15), and 2.0% (v/w) CEO (CEO20). The treatment samples were homogenised, oven‐dried, milled and analysed for chemical constituents. For the in vitro experiment, each sample (1 g) was weighed into serum bottles containing a pre‐mixed phosphate buffer solution (pH 6.8) and pre‐warmed (39°C) overnight. Ruminal inoculum from three donor goats was used for the incubation. Rumen fermentation parameters and volatile fatty acids were determined and the 16s rRNA gene of the fermentation medium was sequenced and amplified to detect the archaea and bacteria abundance. Results Dry matter and organic matter contents were lower (p < 0.05) for CEO15 and CEO20. Crude fat increased with CEO doses with the highest value recorded for CEO20. Treatment CEO20 produced the highest (p < 0.05) value for the immediately fermentable fraction, effective gas production and 96‐h partition factor. Lag time had a positive quadratic effect whereas acetic and butyric acids conferred a positive quadratic effect in response to CEO inclusion. A total of 15 phyla, 46 genera and 65 species were identified. The Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria predominated the phyla groups while unclassified microbes, Prevotella and Succiniclasticum across all treatments predominated the genera and species. The genus Methanobrevibacter and Ruminococcus reduced significantly at CEO15 and CEO20. Conclusion The inclusion of CEO in a basal goat diet increased gas production, partition factor at 96 hour of incubation and decreased total volatile fatty acids. However, 1.5% CEO level enhanced the abundance of fermentative bacteria such as Firmicutes and Actinobacteria while 1.5% and 2% CEO levels reduced the abundance of methanogenic microbes.

Is adoption of modern dairy farming technologies interrelated? a case of smallholder dairy farmers in Meru County, Kenya

Article

Full-text available

Sep 2024

Attempts have been made to promote the adoption of modern dairy farming technologies (MDFT). However, the adoption of these technologies largely remains underutilized. This study aimed to analyze the determinants of the adoption of MDFTs in Meru County. Using purposive and proportionate sampling techniques from 355 smallholder dairy farmers in Meru County, Kenya, this study analyzed the factors that facilitate or impede the adoption of MDFTs. We use a Multivariate probit (MVP) to evaluate adoption decisions by dairy farm households facing multiple MDFTs. The results reveal a significant correlation among the eight MDFTs suggesting that modern technologies are interrelated. The MVP model results indicate that household income, education level, number of extension contacts, access to credit, farmer group membership, farming experience and livestock monetary value had positive effect on the adoption of MDFTs. Education level and extension contacts had a positive influence on the adoption of fodder establishment and preservation technologies. Farming experience in dairy farming had a positive effect on the adoption of well-structured and clean sleeping areas, and the growth of Rhodes grass. Household income had a positive effect on the growth of Rhodes grass and feed mixture. This work illustrates a need for a policy implication and insight into a need for the county government and private milk processing companies to increase extension frequency to enhance the adoption of MDFTs. Additionally, there is a need to increase access to affordable credit, this should be considered by the government by establishing strengthening a smallholder low-interest and efficient local credit schemes and institutions.

The nutritional ecology of the ruminant

Article

Jan 1982

P.J. VAN SOEST

Animal Chemistry or Organic Chemistry in Its Application to Physiology

Article

Jan 1964

J. von Liebig

A Two-Stage Technique for the in vitro Digestion of Forage Crops

Article

Apr 2006
GRASS FORAGE SCI

A simple technique for the determination in vitro of the dry- or organic-matter digestibility of small (0·5 g) samples of dried forages is described. It involves incubation first with rumen liquor and then with acid pepsin. Using 146 samples of grass, clover and lucerne of known in vivo digestibility (Y), the regression equation Y= 0·99 X– 1·01 (S.E. ± 2·31) has been calculated, where X=in vitro dry-matter digestibility. This technique has been used for the study of the digestibilities of plant breeder's material, of the leaf and stem fractions of herbage and of herbage consumed by animals.

Optimal Foraging, the Marginal Value Theorem

Article

May 1976

E.L. Charnov

Science Citation Classic Award

Dairy Productivity and Policy Interventions in Ethiopia

Jan 2018
2015-2019

T W Alemu
Z A Lemma
B Gebremedhin

Alemu, T. W., Lemma, Z. A., & Gebremedhin, B. (2018). Dairy Productivity and Policy Interventions in Ethiopia: 2015-2019. *Journal of Agricultural and Applied Economics*, XX(X), xxx-xxx. DOI: xxxxxxxx

*Feed quality and weight gain in beef cattle: A longitudinal field study

Jan 2020
321-335

L A Brown
J M Garcia

Brown, L. A., & Garcia, J. M. (2020). *Feed quality and weight gain in beef cattle: A longitudinal field study.* Journal of Agricultural Science, 55(3), 321-335.

Livestock Productivity Trends in Developing Economies: A Comparative Analysis

Jan 2017

S Gupta
A U Ahmed
M Rahman

Gupta, S., Ahmed, A. U., & Rahman, M. (2017). Livestock Productivity Trends in Developing Economies: A Comparative Analysis. *Journal of Development Studies*, XX(X), xxxxxx. DOI: xxxxxxxx

*Effect of feed quality on broiler chicken growth rates: A controlled experiment

Jan 2019
215-228

R W Johnson
S P Wilson
M J White

Johnson, R. W., Wilson, S. P., & White, M. J. (2019). *Effect of feed quality on broiler chicken growth rates: A controlled experiment.* Poultry Science, 42(2), 215-228.

Climate change impacts on livestock feed quality and availability: Implications for food security and animal welfare

Jan 2019
ENVIRON RES LETT
124087

R Jones
L Brown

Jones, R., & Brown, L. (2019). Climate change impacts on livestock feed quality and availability: Implications for food security and animal welfare. Environmental Research Letters, 14(12), 124087.

*Traité élémentaire de chimie