Grains Research and Development Corporation

Australian Cereal Rust Control Program - Wheat and barley breeding support

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Australian Cereal Rust Control Program - Wheat and barley breeding support Park, Robert; Singh, Davinder; Ding, Yi; Bariana, Harvans; Roake, Jeremy This collection includes results of rust screening of advanced breeding lines of bread wheat, barley, and oats with identified rust pathotypes in the greenhouse and in field between 2018 and 2022. Greenhouse rust testing was conducted at the USYD plant breeding institute in Camden, while in field rust testing took place in three sites; two in Camden, NSW (“Lansdowne” and “Horse Unit”) and one in Karalee, QLD. Cereal breeders submitted material to be screened for disease response, rust pathotypes used in both greenhouse and field testing were chosen with the objective of identifying industry-wide resistant cultivars. A Fee for Service (FFS) program was subsidised by GRDC for barley and oat testing. These datasets with raw scores are stored on the USYD-RDS at \\shared.sydney.edu.au\research-data\PRJ-ACRCP_prebreeding. All wheat rust data including raw and interpreted scores can be found on the NVT website https://nvt.grdc.com.au/. Please contact Prof. Robert Park (robert.park@sydney.edu.au) or Dr. Laura Ziems (laura.ziems@sydney.edu.au) if you require access to any of the following: a) Contingency tables with the frequencies of tests per crop per year, b) Summary table showing the presence/absence of pathotypes in seven main pathogens per year, c) Datasets with the raw rust scores for oats and barley Cereal breeders submitted material to be screened with the most important rust pathotypes; those used in both greenhouse and field testing were chosen for relevance in reaching the objective of industry-wide resistant cultivars.

Australian Cereal Rust Control Program - Continued monitoring of cereal rust pathogens in Australia

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Australian Cereal Rust Control Program - Continued monitoring of cereal rust pathogens in Australia Park, Robert F.; Ding, Yi; Chhetri, Mumta; Singh, Davinder; Cuddy, Will The GRDC funded survey project monitored national rust pathotype incidence and distribution (changes) through samples received and regular crop inspections for wheat, barley and oats in seven agroecological zones in Australia; NNNSW, SNNSW, Qld, Vic, WA, SA, Tasmania between 2017 – 2022 . Pathotypes were determined using virulence testing of host differential seedlings in greenhouse tests. Disease assessments followed the “0”-“4” infection type scoring system (Stakman scale). Fungicide insensitivity test was conducted by testing isolates received from surveys plus control isolates collected prior to the advent of fungicides against different concentrations of tebuconazole. The sensitivity of five pathotypes (pts) was tested with 7 treatments (amounts of orius [ml] / [m2]). Information of the rust samples sent to PBI is stored in the Rust DB that is hosted on a FM 19 server at the University of Sydney (fmsapa0f274.shared.sydney.edu.au). Summaries of the frequencies of pathotypes isolated for wheat leaf rust, wheat stem rust, wheat stripe rust, barley leaf rust, barley stem rust, oat crown rust and oat stem rust are stored in the RDS folder of the project \\shared.sydney.edu.au\research-data\PRJ-ACRCP_Survey.

Nutritive value of winter wheat for broiler chickens

Sat, 01 Jan 2000 00:00:00 GMT

Nutritive value of winter wheat for broiler chickens Hughes, R. J; Acone, L; Zviedrans, P; Choct, M The nutritive value of Australian winter wheat varieties for broiler chickens was assessed in a series of conventional energy balance studies each of 7-days duration. Across all samples, the mean and standard deviation for apparent metabolisable energy (AME, MJ/kg dry matter) were 14.29±0.36 (n=25) and ranged from 13.68 to 15.02. For individual varieties, means and standard deviations were 14.80±0.03 for Declic (n=2), 14.31±0.33 for Lawson (n=16), 13.97±0.34 for More (n=4) and 14.20±0.09 for Paterson (n=3). In conclusion, winter wheats were consistently high in AME but, nevertheless, were responsive to endo-1,4-xylanase added to the diet. Uplift in AME of wheat due to enzyme supplementation averaged 0.7 MJ/kg (4.9%) and ranged from 0.22 MJ/kg (1.5%) to 1.13 MJ/kg (8.2%).

Feed uses for barley

Sat, 01 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Feed uses for barley Black, J. L; Tredrea, A. M; Nielsen, S. G; Flinn, P. C; Kaiser, A. G; van Barneveld, R. J Cereal grains with their high starch content are fed to livestock predominantly as a source of energy for rapid growth or high milk yield and also for subsistence in times of poor pasture availability. Results from the Premium Grains for Livestock Program show there are large variations across cereal grain species, cultivars, individual grain samples and animal types in the energy released during digestion and in the amount of grain eaten. The digestive system of an animal has a major effect on the energy value of individual barley samples. Some samples provide more energy for ruminants but less for pigs and poultry, and vice versa. Several grain characteristics that contribute to these differences have been identified. Chemical composition of the grain and nature of the endosperm cell walls have a major impact on the energy made available to different animal types. The rate of starch digestion and chances of causing acidosis are important characteristics for determining the energy value of barley for ruminants. Specific grain characteristics that could be included in barley breeding programs for different types of livestock production have been identified. NIR calibrations have been developed for many of these characteristics and should result in more effective evaluation of grains within breeding programs and for sale to the livestock industries.

Quality feed grains: Research highlights and opportunities

Mon, 01 Jan 2001 00:00:00 GMT

Quality feed grains: Research highlights and opportunities Black, J. L The available energy content of cereal grains varies widely both between animal species and between grain cultivars. The Premium Grains for Livestock Program was established to determine the causes of this variation and to identify methods for improving the value of grains for livestock. The digestible energy content of barley grain for sheep has been shown to range from 11.5 MJ/kg for a heavily frosted samples of Arapiles to 15.5 MJ/kg for a sample of the Merlin cultivar. The available energy content of a sorghum grain for cattle was measured at 9.7 MJ/kg compared with approximately 16 MJ/kg when fed to pigs or poultry. These differences in energy values between grains and livestock species can be explained by differences in the gross chemical composition of the grains, physical barriers of the endosperm protein matrix and cell walls limiting enzyme access, the amylose content of the starch and the nature of the animal proteolytic enzymes. There is considerable potential for improving the nutritional value of grains for livestock through plant breeding and processing techniques.

The nutritive value of frosted wheat for sheep

Mon, 01 Jan 2001 00:00:00 GMT

The nutritive value of frosted wheat for sheep Richardson, E. C; Kaiser, A. G; Piltz, J. W The effect of frosting on the nutritive value of wheat grain was determined in a digestibility experiment with sheep. Thirty-six Merino wethers were maintained on diets of lucerne chaff (30%) and whole wheat grain (70%) which was sourced from either severely frosted (SF), lightly frosted (LF) or unfrosted (UF) crops. The experiment was conducted in a repeated balance study with 8 replications per treatment diet for each of the 7 treatment diets, new animals were assigned to the chaff control (treatment diet 8). The diets were offered at the liveweight maintenance level of feeding and the digestibility of the wheat component was calculated by adjusting for the digestibility of the lucerne component. Frosting had a relatively small effect on the nutritive value of wheat grain for sheep. Dry matter digestibility for UF, LF and SF wheats did not differ significantly (0.886, 0.854 and 0.839, respectively), although the SF wheat had a lower digestibility than the UF wheat at P<0.10. The organic matter digestibility, digestible organic matter in the dry matter and estimated metabolisable energy (ME) content were all significantly (P<0.05) lower for SF compared with UF wheat grain (0.856v. 0.908, 0.859v. 0.915 and 13.5v. 14.3 MJ/kg DM respectively). This study demonstrated that wheat from the severely frosted wheat crop had a lower estimated ME content of about 1 MJ/kg DM (equivalent to about 6% less ME) than wheat from the unfrosted crop fed in this study. However, the resultant ME of all samples fed fell within the normal observed ME range for wheat.

Microstructure of grains as an indicator of nutritive value

Mon, 01 Jan 2001 00:00:00 GMT

Microstructure of grains as an indicator of nutritive value Choct, M; Bird, S. H; Littlefield, P; Balogun, R; Rowe, J. B The gross chemical contents of grains explain most, but not all, of the variation in their nutritive value for livestock. It is believed that the microstructural features of grains may be responsible for this unexplained part of the variation. A light microscopy technique combined with differential staining has been used in the grain industry for some time to study the structures of starch granules, protein matrix and protein bodies, and cell wall architecture. In this paper, the application of this technique in nutritional studies will be introduced and some preliminary data presented.

The metabolisable energy value of sorghum and barley for broilers and layers

Mon, 01 Jan 2001 00:00:00 GMT

The metabolisable energy value of sorghum and barley for broilers and layers Choct, M; Hughes, R. J; Perez-Maldonado, R; van Barneveld, R. J A series of experiments were conducted to determine the apparent metabolisable energy (AME) values of 11 sorghum and 11 barley samples using broilers and layers. In addition the AME values of three selected samples were compared using layer hens and adult cockerels. The mean AME value (MJ/kg DM) of sorghum was 15.0 (range: 14.9 to 15.2) in broilers and 15.1 (range: 14.8 to 15.5) in layers, and the mean AME of barley was 12.5 (range: 11.6 to 13.8)in broilers and 13.0 (range: 12.5 to 13.5) in layers. Digesta viscosities (mPa.s) in birds fed sorghum diets averaged between 2.7 and 2.6 in broilers and layers respectively, with little variation between samples. Digesta viscosities in birds fed barley diets differed widely (P<0.01) between samples with the mean in broilers being 25.5 (range: 8.4 to 70.7) and in layers 11.8 (range: 3.4 to 20.5) mPa.s. Dietary ME values obtained using broilers and layers were highly correlated (Rsq=0.947). In addition, in two of the three samples examined AME values determined with adult cockerels and hens were similar.

Factors influencing the energy values of Australian cereal grains fed to broilers

Mon, 01 Jan 2001 00:00:00 GMT

Factors influencing the energy values of Australian cereal grains fed to broilers Hughes, R. J; Choct, M; van Barneveld, R. J The apparent metabolisable energy (AME) values for selected samples of wheat, barley, triticale, oats and sorghum grown in Australia were determined in energy balance experiments with young broilers of both sexes. Ileal digestible energy values were measured for most of these samples. Inherent characteristics of grains induced different responses in male and female chickens. Results indicated that the metabolic activity of gut microflora influenced the energy values in a sex-dependent manner. This has very important implications for the nutrition and husbandry of commercial broiler flocks. It may become economically worthwhile to feed and manage broilers in single sex flocks rather than jointly, as is the current situation. In conclusion, sex-related differences may be important in the uptake and utilisation of energy and other nutrients, in response to anti-nutritional factors (including non-starch polysaccharided; NSP), feed enzymes, prebiotics, probiotics, and other feed additives, and in vaccinations against gut pathogens.

Strategies for the assessment of Livestock feed ingredient quality

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Strategies for the assessment of Livestock feed ingredient quality van Barneveld, R. J Potential exists to improve current strategies and methods employed to assess livestock feed ingredient quality. Of paramount importance to any assessment procedure is representative sampling of the test ingredient. Sampling must be sufficient to facilitate the most sensitive form of analysis, such as that conducted for chemical residues. Arguably, the greatest proportion of time and effort directed towards the assessment of livestock feed ingredient quality should be focussed on the sampling process. Recent research has resulted in the development of rapid methods for the direct assessment of the nutritional quality of feed ingredients for pigs, poultry and ruminants and significant potential exists to improve the use of this technology in commercial animal and feed production systems. Opportunities also exist for the development of multi- screen ELISA assays for chemical contaminants, while a number of ELISA based test kits are in existence for specific mycotoxins. Quantitative analysis of weed seeds may be achieved through the use of image analysis, but there is an urgent need for rapid methods for the assessment of natural plant toxins such as pyrrolizidine alkaloids. The cost benefits of assessing nutritional quality can be clearly demonstrated, but when compared against the risks, analysis of ingredients for contaminants requires more strategic thought.

Extrustion and expansion of cereal grains promotes variable energy yields in pigs, broiler chickens and laying hens

Sat, 01 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Extrustion and expansion of cereal grains promotes variable energy yields in pigs, broiler chickens and laying hens van Barneveld, R. J; Hughes, R. J; Choct, M; Tredrea, A. M; Nielsen, S. G Maximising digestible energy (DE) yield from cereals is fundamental to optimising efficiency in pig and poultry production systems. Given the potential interaction between grain structure and composition and DE (or AME) yields in monogastrics, consideration must be given to cost–effective interventions that may improve available energy supply from grains. Processing options such as extrusion and expansion have potential to significantly disrupt cellular arrangements within a grain and gelatinize the starch components, but the resulting increase in energy yield must be significant if the additional processing costs are to be justified. Such responses are poorly defined for specific cereals. The objective of this experiment was to assess the influence of extrusion of milled cereal grains and expansion of hydrated whole cereal grains on DE yield at the end of the small intestine and across the entire digestive tract in pigs, broiler chickens and laying hens. The results suggest that if energy yield from cereal grains for pigs, broiler chickens and laying hens is to be consistently improved, interventions other than extrusion or expansion are required, or a better understanding of the factors influencing specific responses to processing treatments is required. Results from the current experiment reveal that apparently similar cereal grains can respond differently when subjected to identical extrusion or expansion treatments.

In vitro fermentation of grain and enzymatic digestion of cereal starch

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

In vitro fermentation of grain and enzymatic digestion of cereal starch Bird, S. H; Rowe, J. B; Choct, M; Stachiw, S; Tyler, P; Thompson, R. D Fermentation of grain in the rumen and the digestion of starch in the small intestine are influenced by both animal and grain characteristics. Two assays were established to determine the importance of grain characteristics on fermentation and enzyme digestion. To simulate microbial fermentation in the rumen finely milled samples of grain were incubated in rumen fluid and the end products of fermentation and starch disappearance were measured. The second assay was based on amylase and amyloglucosidase and was established to simulate starch digestion in the small intestine. The assays identified large differences between and within grains with respect to both susceptibility of grain to microbial fermentation and enzyme digestibility of starch. Ranking grains on the basis of total acid production identified expected differences between grains. Lactic acid was positively correlated to total acid production, which implies that strategies aimed at increasing the rate of fermentation of grain inevitably increase the risk of rumen acidosis. The assays identified a sorghum cultivar with a higher rate of fermentation and enzyme digestibility compared to other sorghum varieties tested. Triticale was also identified as a grain with a high enzyme digestibility of starch.

Evaluation of various NIR instruments for estimating grain quality for livestock

Sat, 01 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Evaluation of various NIR instruments for estimating grain quality for livestock Flinn, P. C; Openshaw, S. R; Blakeney, A. B A large national research project in Australia over the past seven years has focused on improving the quality of grains for feeding to livestock. A major expectation of the grain and livestock industries from this project is the adoption of rapid and objective analytical tests for relevant quality criteria of grains, preferably at the point of delivery. NIR spectroscopy obviously has a key role, and calibrations have been derived, or attempted, for 52 different chemical and physical properties, several in vitro or in sacco tests, and in vivo digestibility or energy content for ruminants [1 - 3], pigs and poultry. Final calibrations were developed using over 100 grains, either whole or ground, which were scanned on laboratory-based grating monochromators, namely Foss-NIRSystems models 6500 or 5000 instruments. However, the industry has requested that the appropriate NIR spectroscopy testing procedures be made available on simpler, cheaper and as such, often older, spectrometers. This presents a real challenge for calibration transfer, given the differences in optical configuration, spectral range, sample presentation and software packages among the instrument types. Some instruments also target specific applications and constituents. Due to the nature of many of the tests of interest in this project, it was a difficult task to make direct and fair comparisons between NIR spectrometers in the market-place. The purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy of some NIR spectrometers for estimation of selected indicators of feed grain quality, using whole grain samples.

Relationships between the ileal and faecal digestible energy content of pig diets containing Australian barley cultivars

Sat, 01 Jan 2000 00:00:00 GMT

Relationships between the ileal and faecal digestible energy content of pig diets containing Australian barley cultivars van Barneveld, R. J; Ru, Y. J; Wyatt, G. F; Pluske, J. R Significant variation has been shown to exist between the digestible energy of barley cultivars fed to growing pigs, but due to extensive fermentation in the hind gut, digestible energy measurements may be underestimating the net energy contributions of the animal. To demonstrate the influence of hind gut fermentation on energy digestion in the pig, the ileal diet digestible energy (IDE) and faecal diet digestible energy (FDE) content of diets containing Australian barley cultivars were compared.

Sex and the single chicken

Wed, 01 Jan 2003 00:00:00 GMT

Sex and the single chicken Hughes, R. J This paper discusses results from some recent studies that point to the existence of fundamental differences between males and females in metabolism of energy. It is apparent that gender can influence the digestive capacity of chickens through endogenous energy losses, gut structure and function, and metabolic activity of gut microflora. This raises the question “Is there sexual dimorphism in other physiological and biochemical systems also?” There are important scientific and commercial implications should such differences exist. Firstly, future research should include an examination of any gender-related influences. Secondly, the commercial implications are that males and females may have different nutrient requirements, and may respond differently to feed additives such as prebiotics, probiotics and feed enzymes. Hence, single-sex feeding and management programs may be desirable for optimisation of growth, carcass yield and carcass composition within each sex.

Opportunities and challenges in implementing NIR grain calibrations for the feedlot Industry

Tue, 01 Jan 2002 00:00:00 GMT

Opportunities and challenges in implementing NIR grain calibrations for the feedlot Industry Flinn, P. C; Blakeney, A. B

Premium grains for livestock: an update on NIR calibration development and implementation

Wed, 01 Jan 2003 00:00:00 GMT

Premium grains for livestock: an update on NIR calibration development and implementation Flinn, P. C One of the major objectives of the national Premium Grains for Livestock Program (PGLP) is to develop rapid methods for measuring the determinants of grain quality relevant to the nutritional requirements of ruminants, pigs and poultry. This paper provides a brief update on the development of NIR calibrations for a range of chemical, physical, in vitro and in vivo analyses. The major emphasis in this section of the PGLP from now on will be the implementation of NIR tests at strategic locations within the grain and animal industries. This would allow the test results to be used for pricing grains in accordance with their suitability as an animal feed, and also as a real time decision tool in grain utilisation and diet formulation.

Recent achievements in cereal feed grains nutrition

Sat, 01 Jan 2000 00:00:00 GMT

Recent achievements in cereal feed grains nutrition Black, J. L

The energy value of cereal grains, particularly wheat and sorghum, for poultry

Sat, 01 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The energy value of cereal grains, particularly wheat and sorghum, for poultry Black, J. L; Hughes, R. J; Nielsen, S. G; Tredrea, A. M; MacAlpine, R; van Barneveld, R. J Results from the Premium Grains for Livestock Program were analysed to identify variation in the energy value for laying hens and broiler chickens of cereal grains including wheat, barley, oats, triticale, sorghum and rice. There was wide variation in apparent metabolisable energy (AME) within and between grain species for both layers and broilers. While the range in AME values was similar for most grains in layers and broilers, there were varying responses to specific samples. AME values tended to be higher in layers than broilers for barley, frosted triticale and naked oat samples. More AME was obtained from rice by broilers. There was little relationship between AME content of grains and the amount eaten by layers or broilers. When wheat and sorghum, the most common grains used by the Australian poultry industry, were compared, AME was considerably higher for sorghum in both layers and broilers. The intake of sorghum based diets was also higher for layers, but not for broilers. Layers offered sorghum based diets consumed 13% more AME daily than those offered wheat based diets. However, for broilers, daily intake of AME was similar for sorghum and wheat based diets. Despite a similar daily intake of AME, broilers offered wheat based diets grew 20% faster and used 13% less feed than those offered sorghum based diets. The poor utilisation of energy from sorghum based diets was attributed to a low availability of amino acids, with arginine as possible first limiting amino acid, due to the low content and digestibility of sorghum proteins. In addition, asynchrony in the timing of absorption of amino acids from casein, the main protein source in the experimental diets, and glucose from the delayed digestion of starch granules surrounded by a relatively indigestible protein matrix is thought to have contributed to the lower utilisation of energy from sorghum than from wheat based diets.

Variation in nutritional value of cereal grains across livestock species

Mon, 01 Jan 2001 00:00:00 GMT

Variation in nutritional value of cereal grains across livestock species Black, J. L Variation in available energy content (MJ/kg DM) of Australian cereal grains has been examined across sheep, cattle, pigs, broiler chickens and laying hens. There were only small differences in the available energy content of individual grains across animal types, except for the low energy content of sorghum for cattle. Much of the variation between grains could be explained by gross chemical composition. However, other factors likely to affect the energy available from grains for animals include endosperm cell wall characteristics, grain hardness, fatty acid content and composition, relative proportions of amylose and amylopectins in starch, chemical and physical nature of the protein-starch matrix and phenolic acid bonds with lignin, polysaccharides and proteins.

Where Angels fear to tread: a comparison of NIR instruments for estimating grain quality for livestock

Thu, 01 Jan 2004 00:00:00 GMT

Where Angels fear to tread: a comparison of NIR instruments for estimating grain quality for livestock Flinn, P. C; Blakeney, A. B; Openshaw, S. R

Quality in the feed grain Market

Thu, 01 Jan 2004 00:00:00 GMT

Quality in the feed grain Market Taverner, M. R

Nutritional value of cereal grains for animals

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Nutritional value of cereal grains for animals Black, J. L The energy value of cereal grains for livestock varies widely between grains and animal species. For example, the digestible energy content for pigs of wheat and barley grain ranges from 13.3 to 17.0 MJ/kg and 11.7 to 16.0 MJ/kg, respectively. However, the digestible energy content of sorghum grain for pigs shows little variation from 17.0 to 18.0 MJ/kg. Hughes & Choct reported a similar wide range across some grains in apparent metabolisable energy (AME) values for broiler chickens, being from 10.4 to 15.9 MJ/kg for wheat, 10.4 to 13.5 MJ/kg for barley and 8.6 to 16.6 MJ/kg for triticale. The chicken AME values for sorghum and maize, again, show a small range from only 15.6 to 16.1 MJ/kg, with a similar small range for oat grain (11.8 to 12.4 MJ/kg). Significant variation exists between grains in the digestibility of starch within the rumen of cattle, being 0.92 for oat grain, 0.65 for maize and 0.62 for sorghum starch. There are also striking differences between animal species in their capacity to digest cereal starch. The digestibility of sorghum starch across the whole digestive tract of poultry is extremely high (0.99) compared with 0.87 for cattle and 0.30 for horses. Reasons for these observed differences in the energy value of cereal grains are discussed.

Selection and storage of cereal grains for livestock

Mon, 01 Jan 2001 00:00:00 GMT

Selection and storage of cereal grains for livestock Black, J. L A six-year research program, “Premium Grains for Livestock”, funded by the Grains R&D Corporation, several animal R&D Corporations and Ridley Agriproducts is focussed on improving the quality of cereal grains for livestock. Cereal grains provide the major source of energy for animals raised in intensive production systems. However, the energy available from cereal grains can vary widely between both grain and animal species. For example, the digestible energy (DE) content of wheat and barley for pigs has been reported to range from 13.3 to 17.0 and from 11.7 to 16.0 MJ/kg, respectively (van Barneveld, 1999). Similarly, Hughes and Choct (1999) reported a range in apparent metabolisable energy (AME, MJ/kg) for broiler chickens from 10.4 to 15.9 MJ/kg for wheat, 10.4 to 13.5 for barley and 8.6 to 16.6 for triticale. There are also large differences between animal species in their capacity to digest starch in cereals. Sorghum starch is almost completely digested by poultry, compared with significant excretion of sorghum starch in the faeces of cattle (Rowe et al. 1999). A primary aim of the research is to identify the chemical, physical and morphological characteristics of grains that determine their nutritional value for sheep, cattle, pigs and poultry.

Recent developments in improving the prediction of digestibility of feed grains

Sat, 01 Jan 2000 00:00:00 GMT

Recent developments in improving the prediction of digestibility of feed grains Flinn, P. C; Heazlewood, P. G; Dalton, S. L “Feed grain” has always been regarded as an inferior product in Australia because it is unsuitable for milling. However the recent sharp increase in the feeding of grains to livestock has resulted in a large collaborative research project being established to improve the quality and marketing opportunities for feed grain. This study addresses one of the project’s objectives which is to develop rapid tests for nutritional value, specifically dry matter digestibility (DMD) and hence metabolisable energy. In vivo DMD was measured on 40 grains in sheep using a standard protocol, with values ranging from 61.9 to 92.3% (standard deviation 6.64). NIR could predict in vivo DMD satisfactorily for whole grain (R2 0.92, SECV 1.94) and ground grain (R2 0.93, SECV 1.74). However a more even distribution of values is required for a robust relationship, with further samples having DMD values between 60 and 80%. Additional in vivo trials are in progress with 20 diverse grains using sheep, and 8 of these using cattle. These grain “standards” will form the basis of a uniform procedure for rapid prediction of DMD between Australian laboratories.

Genotype and environment effects on feed grain quality

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Genotype and environment effects on feed grain quality O'Brien, L The extent of genotype and location effects on chemical composition and nutritive value of grains fed to animals was surveyed. The review covered the winter cereals (wheat, barley, oats, and triticale), the summer cereals (sorghum and maize), and the pulses (field pea, lupins, faba beans, and chickpea) when fed to cattle, sheep, poultry, pigs, rats, and mice. The bulk of the literature does not meet the statistical criteria required to differentiate genotype and environment effects. When the criteria were satisfied, significant genotype differences were shown to exist for chemical composition in wheat, barley, triticale, and sorghum, for nutritive value as determined by methods in vitro in wheat, barley, oats, triticale, and sorghum and in vivo for wheat, barley, triticale, sorghum and maize. Valid comparisons across grain species are few, but in vitro gas production ranks wheat > oats > barley. Significant location, year, genotype × location, genotype × year, and genotype × location × year effects were reported for nutritive value for some grains. Wheat feeding trials with poultry indicate that environment can affect apparent metabolisable energy (AME) as much as, if not more than, genotype. A greater range in nutritive value appears to exist in barley than in wheat. The information is unclear in the case of triticale, where despite some reports claiming that grain of this species has high lysine content, the difference does not appear to translate to improved performance in animals. Insufficient studies exist for oats despite it being one of the most widely used on-farm feed grains. No examples could be found of studies with rye. The most thoroughly researched grain has been sorghum, which is principally grown in developed countries for feeding to livestock. Here, some definitive studies have been conducted to define the extent of genotype, location, and genotype × environment interaction effects. Scope exists to enhance the nutritive value of sorghum by breeding through modification of endosperm composition, tannin content, and improved protein digestibility. Variation in endosperm composition in maize due to simply inherited mutations provides the opportunity to improve its nutritive value. This review indicates that before any plant breeding is undertaken for feed grain quality, a better understanding of what determines nutritive value and the relative importance of genotype and environment in modulating these factors is required.

Physical and chemical contaminants in grains used in livestock feeds

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Physical and chemical contaminants in grains used in livestock feeds van Barneveld, Robert This review focuses on 3 main sources of contamination of Australian grains used in livestock feeds, namely chemical residues, moulds and mycotoxins, and weed seeds, including natural toxins such as pyrrolizidine alkaloids. By evaluating the risk to livestock from chemical contaminants (pre-emergent herbicides, selective herbicides, fungicides, insecticides used during growth phases and at pre-harvest, and post harvest insecticides) and the influence of chemical contaminants on livestock production efficiency and grain nutritional quality, the relative priorities for residue management strategies can be established. The chemicals with the highest priority for inclusion in a residue management strategy include bifenthrin (synthetic pyrethroid), chlorpyrifos-methyl (organophosphate), deltamethrin (synthetic pyrethroid), endosulfan (organochlorine), and fenitrothion (organophosphate). It also appears that the Australian maximum residue limit standards do not meet the needs of the livestock industries for effective management of residues in animal feeds, and consequently, a revised approach is required. The amount of research and literature available on the effects of mould and mycotoxin contamination of grain on livestock production, and techniques available for the measurement of moulds and mycotoxins, far exceeds the potential risk these contaminants pose to the livestock industries in Australia. In addition, the effects of moulds and mycotoxins are rarely widespread, with many accounts in the literature referring to a small number of animals on individual enterprises. The actual economic impact of moulds and mycotoxin contamination is also difficult to assess due to a lack of systematic surveys and varying livestock production responses to the presence of these compounds. Finally, weed seeds and the toxic components of weed seeds are still prevalent contaminants of Australian grains used in livestock feeds, and are responsible for significant livestock losses, but there is a lack of screening methods for qualitative or quantitative identification of these contaminants and a lack of uniform standards for use of contaminated grain.

A review of methods for assessing the protein value of grain fed to ruminants

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

A review of methods for assessing the protein value of grain fed to ruminants White, Colin; Ashes, John The protein value of feed grains for ruminant rations is currently described in modern feeding systems in terms of total protein, potentially degradable protein, and potentially undegradable protein. Progress is being made towards full standardisation of methods to measure these components, although it is a goal yet to be achieved. Whereas in the future it is desirable that protein value be defined in terms of individual amino acid availability at the intestine, in the immediate term it can best be described by the rate and extent of degradability of protein in the rumen and the availability in the intestine of the rumen undegraded protein. Refining the methodology for measuring these characteristics is important, but it is equally important that the existing methods be validated using in vivo experimentation.

Comparison of methods used to predict the in vivo digestibility of feeds in ruminants

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Comparison of methods used to predict the in vivo digestibility of feeds in ruminants Kitessa, S; Flinn, P. C; Irish, G. G Digestibility is a very useful index of the energy content of ruminant feeds, but cheaper and quicker laboratory methods are required as an alternative to the ultimate measure of in vivo digestibility using animals. These methods involve either prediction of digestibility from chemical composition or in vitro and in situ simulation of the digestion process. This review presents a range of chemical and in vitro techniques for predicting digestibility, together with an assessment of their advantages and limitations, particularly the degree to which they account for the sources of variation in in vivo digestibility in ruminants. In situ digestion of feed samples in the actual rumen environment is probably the most accurate of the non in vivo procedures, but is not suitable for routine application. Thein vitro gas production technique offers no advantages in prediction of total tract digestibility, but is useful for screening cereal grains for rate of starch hydrolysis in the rumen. The preferred procedure for routine laboratory prediction of digestibility is the pepsin-cellulase technique, provided amylase is included or high temperature digestion is used for samples high in starch content. Prediction of digestibility from chemical composition is not recommended. The optical technique of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy can be calibrated against any of the methods outlined in this review, and is unsurpassed in terms of speed and repeatability. Direct NIR prediction of in vivo digestibility is also possible, but is limited by the lack of adequate numbers of feed samples with known in vivo values. Future work should be aimed at filling this gap and also improving the accuracy of laboratory methods for predicting the digestibility of low quality feeds

Amino acid availability in poultry - in vitro and in vivo measurements

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Amino acid availability in poultry - in vitro and in vivo measurements Ravindran, V; Bryden, W. L Methodology to evaluate the protein quality or amino acid availability in feed ingredients for poultry using in vitro (enzymic, chemical, or microbiological assays), indirect in vivo (plasma amino acid assays), or direct in vivo (growth or digestibility assays) measurements has been reviewed. The specific applications and limitations of these methods are examined. In vitro assays are useful in providing information on heat damage in selected protein sources under defined conditions, and on relative ranking of different samples, but they cannot form the basis of practical feed formulations. While growth assays remain the only direct means of confirming nutritional relevance of values obtained by other procedures, in vivo digestibility assays appear to be most useful, at present, to estimate amino acid availability. Amino acid digestibility assays in poultry should be based on the analysis of digesta from the terminal ileum rather than excreta, because of the variable and modifying effects of hindgut microflora. Techniques used to estimate endogenous amino acid losses in poultry are discussed. The needs for correction of endogenous losses in amino acid digestibility calculations and the relative merits of apparent and true digestible amino acid systems are still being debated. It is, however, clear that both digestible amino systems are superior to the total amino acid system currently employed to formulate practical diets. Digestible amino acid values are likely to form the basis of poultry feed formulations in the future. In particular, there is an urgent need for more precise information on the variation in digestible amino acid contents of locally grown ingredients and on the factors causing this variation (e.g. variety, location, season, agronomic practices, processing, etc.).

Chemical and physical characteristics of grains related to variability in energy and amino acid availability in poultry

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Chemical and physical characteristics of grains related to variability in energy and amino acid availability in poultry Hughes, R. J; Choct, M Grains such as wheat and barley, combined with legumes and oilseed meals, provide not only the bulk of essential nutrients for commercial poultry production and reproduction, but are also the prime source of anti-nutritive components, which are likely to have significant bearing on how effectively all dietary components are utilised by poultry. Sources of variation in the physical and chemical characteristics of grains used in poultry diets include variety, seasonal effects, and growth sites, crop treatment and grain fumigants, and post-harvest storage conditions and period of storage. The available energy and protein contents of grains fed to poultry, which best represent nutritive value, are extremely wide and in consequence there is an urgent need to develop rapid and objective tests for the assessment of nutritive value prior to including grains in poultry diets. Variation in the available energy and protein content of grains can be attributed to a wide range of anti-nutritive factors such as non-starch polysaccharides (NSP), enzyme activity, tannins, alkyl resorcinols, protease inhibitors, α-amylase inhibitors, phytohaemagglutinins, alkaloids, saponins, and lathyrogens. The relative importance of such factors will also differ according to the type of grain in question. However, NSP seem to be the predominant factor in Australia over the past few years given the volume of published literature on this topic. This argument is strongly supported by the fact that NSP-degrading enzymes are routinely used in monogastric diets with great success throughout the world. Numerous attempts over a long period have failed to provide unequivocal evidence that nutritive value in grains for poultry can be predicted with sufficient accuracy and precision by simple, low-cost physico-chemical measurements used singly or in combination. Nevertheless, it is highly desirable to continue to explore these simple measurements in the expectation that useful statistical relationships with more complex measurements will emerge, or that simple measurements can be used to fine-tune prediction equations based on more powerful techniques such as near infrared spectrophotometry. Finally, the nutritive value of grains for poultry will be determined not only by the chemical and physical properties of grains but also by the way that these interact with the processes of ingestion, digestion, absorption, and metabolism in birds. For this reason it is imperative that plant and animal scientists join forces to improve the nutritive value of plant material as feed for animals for the benefit of grain growers and producers of livestock.

An assessment by in vivo methods of grain quality for ruminants

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

An assessment by in vivo methods of grain quality for ruminants Hogan, J. P; Flinn, P. C For the purpose of this review, grain quality refers to the efficiency with which a grain supports growth in cattle fed diets which contain grain as a major component. Grains are fed as concentrated sources of energy. Their quality depends on the energy content of the grain, the amount eaten, and the efficiency, both of extraction of nutrients from the diet and of conversion of nutrients to weight gain. This paper briefly describes the fermentative and digestive processes involved in releasing energy from grain and in ensuring an adequate supply of other essential nutrients to the animal. Methods are then described for measuring net energy storage, nutrient release in various sections of the tract, and storage of energy and protein both directly and indirectly in studies of growth. It is recommended that in vivo assessment of the energy content of grains for ruminants be conducted in stages. Digestibility in the whole tract should be used to rank a range of grains, then comparisons made between grains using growth studies. Discrepancies arising from these assessments should then be investigated using more detailed measurements, particularly starch digestion in the stomach and intestines.

Methods for the analysis of premium livestock grains

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Methods for the analysis of premium livestock grains Petterson, D. S; Harris, D. J; Rayner, C. J; Blakeney, A. B; Choct, M The literature contains a wide range of reported values for the content of most chemical constituents of feed grains and meals. It is not possible to assess accurately how much of this variation is due to genotypic and environmental factors and how much to differences in methodologies between laboratories. We have reviewed the literature for the preparation and analysis of feed grains (cereals, legumes, and oilseeds) and made recommendations for procedures considered to give the most accurate and reliable results. Recommendations are also made for a quality assurance scheme, an inter-laboratory evaluation program, and the use of reference materials. Australia-wide adoption of these practices should ensure that any future variations observed can be ascribed to genotype and/or environment. This review is part of a national premium feed grains quality project which, in turn, is part of a program to provide more accurate and reliable information about the true value of our feed grains to the domestic and international feeds industries.

Chemical and physical characteristics of grains related to variability in energy and amino acid availability in ruminants: a review

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Chemical and physical characteristics of grains related to variability in energy and amino acid availability in ruminants: a review van Barneveld, Samantha This paper reviews the carbohydrate, protein, lipid, anti-nutritional, and physical characteristics of grains that determine the variability in their nutritional quality for ruminant animals. The amount, rate, and extent of starch fermentation in the rumen have been the subject of many studies, with large variation found between and within grain species. Electron microscopy scanning techniques have shown that the protein matrix limits the microbial colonisation of starch granules in some grain species, whereas in others it may be the structural carbohydrates that affect colonisation. The composition of the different fibre fractions of grains and their interaction with non-fibre carbohydrates requires investigation, since it has been shown that non-starch polysaccharides, including neutral detergent fibre and acid detergent fibre, may not be specific enough to predict animal response to grain. Fermentation patterns of the non-starch polysaccharide components of legumes are also poorly understood and hence require further investigation. Different varieties of grain and different seasonal conditions show variation in the protein fractions of the kernel. Since these fractions display different solubility and degradation rates in the rumen, rumen solubility values cannot be generalised for grains. The variability in solubility caused by rumen flow rate and pH is a further complication. Finally, the lipid content of grains varies greatly, with high-oil grains potentially contributing to the energy level of the diet, but possibly negatively affecting rumen fermentation. Due to the degree of variability of characteristics discussed in this review, it is clear that the nutritional quality of grains cannot be assessed in a single rapid assay.

Potential methodologies and strategies for the rapid assessment of feed-grain quality

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Potential methodologies and strategies for the rapid assessment of feed-grain quality Wrigley, C. W The efficient use of grains for animal feed requires the use of analytical methods that can provide rapid indications of the suitability of the grain for animal nutrition. Ideally, these methods need to be applied at the site of grain receival within the tight time and cost confines of grain delivery. In addition, methods are needed in plant breeding to efficiently screen for target aspects of feed-grain quality to facilitate the development of genotypes with improved nutritional quality. This review describes a range of techniques that can fulfil these analytical requirements. These include visual examination of grain samples for species identification and for recognition of defects and contaminants. This long-standing approach is rapid, but it is subjective and dependent on the expertise of the operator. The newer technology of image analysis offers the prospect of providing similar information automatically and quantitatively, without the risk of operator bias. Near-infrared (NIR) analysis is already in general use for grain analysis at many receival depots in wheat-growing countries, mainly for the determination of moisture and protein content. There are promising indications that NIR can be extended to the determination of many other aspects of grain composition, both the positive aspects that contribute to feed quality, as well as components such as beta-glucan content that have negative contributions for non-ruminants. Furthermore, NIR is being developed to provide a direct indication of metabolisable energy for a range of grain types. Whereas NIR is primarily suited to the determination of quantitatively major components of the grain, without the requirement of significant sample preparation, immunological analyses are appropriate for the determination of specific and minor components, such as mycotoxins, lectins, alkaloids, and pesticide residues. These and other methods, suited for on-site analysis, need to be combined with effective sampling to ensure that the results of testing are representative of the whole of the grain consignment, and also integrated into a systematic strategy to ensure cost-effective testing.

Processing cereal grains for animal feeding

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Processing cereal grains for animal feeding Rowe, J. B; Choct, M; Pethick, D. W This review concentrates on factors influencing the nutritive value of cereal grains for animals and strategies, in particular processing and storage, which may be used to optimise fermentation and digestion. The main focus is on the utilisation of starch in cereal grains by ruminants. Extensive comparisons have been made between grains and between animals to understand the reasons for differences in pattern of fermentation and/or intestinal digestion in response to a range of processing techniques. In addition, differences between the animal species have been reviewed to understand further the factors critical for maximising post-ruminal starch digestion.

Increasing the utilisation of grain when fed whole to ruminants

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Increasing the utilisation of grain when fed whole to ruminants Kaiser, A. G Feeding grain whole to cattle generally results in a lower digestibility than that obtained with processed grain. If this problem could be overcome, feeding with whole grain would reduce processing costs, and the slower rate of starch digestion in the rumen could improve fibre digestion with potential beneficial effects on intake and animal production. Two strategies are available to increase the digestibility of whole grain. The first, longer term strategy relies on the selection or breeding of feed grains that are efficiently digested by cattle when fed whole. The review considers the chemical and physical properties of grains likely to increase the degree of grain damage during mastication, and increase the digestibility of the seed coat fraction. Research is required to determine the feasibility of selecting feed grains with these characteristics. The second strategy is to treat whole grain with chemicals or enzymes to increase digestibility of the seed coat and consequently whole grain digestion within the rumen. Considerable research has been conducted on the sodium hydroxide (NaOH) treatment of grain, and there is sufficient evidence from cattle experiments to indicate that digestibility, liveweight gain, and milk production on NaOH-treated whole grain can be similar to that on rolled grain, provided sufficient NaOH is applied. However, a number of practical and commercial considerations have limited the more widespread adoption of this technology on farms. Although ammonia treatment offers a more practical alternative to NaOH, digestibility and animal production responses have been highly variable, and research is required to identify effective ammoniation procedures. The increased availability of enzymes for livestock feeding has potentially provided another grain treatment option. The application of fibrolytic enzymes to whole grain prior to high-moisture storage or feeding, and their subsequent effect on grain digestibility, require research. The impact of grain characteristics, both physical and chemical, on the response to alkali or enzyme treatment also requires research.

Associative effects between forages and grains: consequences for feed utilisation

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Associative effects between forages and grains: consequences for feed utilisation Dixon, R. M; Stockdale, C. R Intake of metabolisable energy (ME) when forages and grains are fed together to ruminants may, due to digestive and metabolic interactions, be lower or higher than expected from feeding these components separately. These interactions, or associative effects, are due primarily to changes in the intake and/or the digestibility of the fibrous components of forage. Effects on voluntary forage intake (substitution effects) are usually much larger than on the digestibility of fibrous components, although the changes in forage intake may be a consequence of changes in the rate of digestion of the fibrous components. Positive associative effects, where grains increase voluntary intake and/or digestion of forage, are usually due to the provision of a limiting nutrient (eg. nitrogen, phosphorus) in the grain which is deficient in the forage. Negative associative effects, where grains decrease voluntary intake and/or digestion of forage, occur frequently and can cause low efficiency of utilisation of grain. Rate of substitution of grain for forage is related to forage intake, forage digestibility, the proportion of grain in the diet, and the maturity of the animal. Substitution rates are usually high in ruminants consuming high intakes of forage of high digestibility, probably due to the metabolic mechanisms which control voluntary intake reducing forage intake. Substitution rates are often low when animals are consuming forage of low to medium digestibility. Since voluntary intake of such forages is most likely determined by the capacity of the rumen to accommodate and pass to the lower gastrointestinal tract undigested forage residues, and of the rate of forage fibre digestion in the rumen, substitution is likely to be determined by changes in these processes. Reduced rate of fibre digestion in the rumen is often due to low rumen pH and/or an insufficiency of essential substrates for rumen microorganisms. Use of grains for lactating dairy cows involves an additional constraint since dietary grain may severely reduce milk fat content. Negative associative effects can be alleviated by ensuring supply of essential microbial substrates, feeding management, and modification of grain to minimise their adverse effects on fibre digestion, while ensuring satisfactory digestion of the grain and efficient microbial protein production.

In vivo and in vitro techniques for the assessment of the energy content of feed grains for poultry: a review

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

In vivo and in vitro techniques for the assessment of the energy content of feed grains for poultry: a review Farrell, D. J The focus of this paper is on the energy evaluation of foodstuffs, particularly of food grains for poultry. Apparent metabolisable energy (AME) is currently the preferred feeding system for poultry but net energy systems are future possibilities and one is currently being used in some poultry growth models. These systems take into account the efficiency with which AME is being utilised by the bird. Aspects such as AME adjusted to zero nitrogen retention and true metabolisable energy (TME) are discussed. Shortcomings of the AME system are also discussed and recent net energy systems are described briefly. The in vitro prediction of AME or TME has not shown great promise although the European Tables of Energy Values for Foodstuffs contain detailed analysis of chemical composition and AMEn data allowing improved accuracy of prediction. It is suggested that data generated on Australian grains should be tested using these tables, and if successful, these tables may be useful to industry. Near infrared reflectance analysis (NIRA) is likely to be the preferred in vitro method for predicting a range of characteristics of food grains including AME. A new method of grain evaluation developed in Canada is described and this approach, with modification, may be worth pursuing in Australia. For the in vivo method of measuring AME of grains, the classical total collection method with broiler chickens is recommended with minor changes. The use of acid-insoluble ash for estimating dry matter digestibility for subsequent determination of AME may have merit. A rapid assay appropriate to laying hens is proposed because of the known increase in AME of grains as birds age. It has been established that AME values generated using adult cockerels also apply reasonably well to hens.

In vitro techniques for the assessment of the nutritive value of feed grains for pigs: a review

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

In vitro techniques for the assessment of the nutritive value of feed grains for pigs: a review Moughan, Paul The philosophy inherent in developing in vitro digestibility assays for dietary energy and protein is reviewed and an historical account is given of the development of such assays for the pig. General principles to be considered in the development of in vitro digestibility assays are discussed, as are limitations of the in vitro approach. The importance of choosing the most appropriate in vivo measures of digestibility for the evaluation of in vitro assays is stressed. For protein sources that do not contain anti-nutritional factors or plant fibre, ‘true’ ileal digestibility should be the in vivo baseline, while plant proteins should be tested against ‘real’ ileal digestibility. There is a dearth of adequately conducted validation studies for in vitro digestibility assays. It appears that the 3-step (pepsin, pancreatin, Viscozyme) closed in vitro system to allow prediction of organic matter and gross energy digestibility in the pig has particular promise for practical feed evaluation. Similarly based protein digestibility assays may require further development before they can be applied with confidence.

Cereal structure and composition

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Cereal structure and composition Evers, A. D; Blakeney, A. B; O'Brien, L Cereals are cultivated grasses that are grown throughout the world. As well as providing food for man, they, or fractions derived from processing them, make an important contribution to the diets of farm stock. Cereal grains have a long storage life under favourable conditions because they are harvested at a relatively low moisture content and comprise stable components. The principal energy sources within the grains are protected from infestation by outer coverings that are difficult to penetrate and in some cases unpalatable components in the coverings discourage predation by wild populations. The largest morphological component of all grains is the starchy endosperm, and approximately 80% of this is starch, occurring as microscopical granules with forms characteristic of the species. Also characteristic of the species are the storage proteins, which make the next largest contribution to endosperm dry weight. Proteins are important both as nutrients and by virtue of the fact that the class includes enzymes which, although making a small contribution to grain weight, can have a marked effect on grain quality and hence price. Other chemical components present as minor contributors, but with potential for exerting significant nutritional influence, are phytates and tannins, and current knowledge of these is briefly discussed. The walls of endosperm cells comprise a complex mixture of polysaccharides including cellulose, arabinoxylans, and β-glucans, as well as proteins and esterified phenolic acids. Attention is drawn to the difficulty in defining ‘fibre’ as it is method- or function-dependent and includes contributions from the endosperm cell wall components as well as the lignified walls of cells in the outer protective pericarp and the contents and cuticle of the testa.

Chemical and physical characteristics of grain related to variability in energy and amino acid availability in pigs: a review

Fri, 01 Jan 1999 00:00:00 GMT

Chemical and physical characteristics of grain related to variability in energy and amino acid availability in pigs: a review van Barneveld, Robert To optimise pig production, there is a need to define the variation in the available energy and amino acid content of feed grains and to understand those factors that influence nutritive value. Differences of up to 3.7 MJ/kg dry matter (DM) in digestible energy (DE) content were observed following a review of data for more than 70 cultivars of wheat. Similarly, analysis of data for more than 125 cultivars of barley revealed a range in DE estimates from 11.7 to 16.0 MJ/kg DM. Differences of this magnitude are economically significant to pig producers. Cultivar has a minimal effect on the availability of energy and amino acids in cereals, although this variation is larger in legumes, particularly lupins. The cultural conditions and agronomic practices (e.g. fertiliser rate) have a greater influence on amino acid and energy availability than the growing region or the growing year. Many factors are shown to influence the availability of energy and amino acids in feed grains, including protein source and type, starch characteristics, fat source and type, non-starch polysaccharide components, and anti-nutritional factors. Although all of these factors can influence the nutritive value of a feed grain for pigs in some way, the availability of energy and amino acids will ultimately depend on the particular combination of these components in a grain and how they behave in the presence of nutrients from other feed ingredients. For this reason, an understanding of the factors that influence the nutritive value of feed grains is more likely to eventuate when multiple regressions of grain components are made against the availability of energy and amino acids.

Current and potential use of NIR in the fodder and grain industries: a ruminant's perspective

Sat, 01 Jan 2000 00:00:00 GMT

Current and potential use of NIR in the fodder and grain industries: a ruminant's perspective Flinn, P. C A review of the current and potential use of NIR (2000) in determining the nutritional value of fodder and grain for ruminants.

Implementing NIR grain quality testing for the feedlot industry: what are the options?

Tue, 01 Jan 2002 00:00:00 GMT

Implementing NIR grain quality testing for the feedlot industry: what are the options? Flinn, P. C A major objective of the "Premium Grains for Livestock Program" is to develop rapid tests, suitable for the site of grain collection and/or use, to measure the nutritional value of grains so that they can be priced in accordance with their suitability as an animal feed. The feedlot industry, as a major user of grain, is well aware of the relationship between the quality of a feedlot ration and animal performance. However, routine testing for grain quality has frequently been limited to constituents such as moisture, protein, oil and fibre, and can be too time-consuming to be of real value unless rapid testing procedures are available on-site or close at hand. This project has sought to identify and measure "functional properties" of grains as well as the major constituents. One such property is metabolisable energy (ME), which has been identified as one of the most important indicators of nutritional value. However, ME is very difficult to measure directly, and is almost always predicted from other laboratory measurements, such as fibre or an in vitro estimate of digestibility.

Current NIR developments in the Premium Grains for Livestock Program

Tue, 01 Jan 2002 00:00:00 GMT

Current NIR developments in the Premium Grains for Livestock Program Flinn, P. C The Premium Grains for Livestock Program (PGLP) represents a coordinated national effort to: (i)understand the factors determining nutritional value of grains for animals; (ii)improve nutritional value through processing, breeding and storage; (iii)develop rapid methods for measuring determinants of grain quality; and (iv)develop computer programs to predict animal performance and economic value of grains. The PGLP, now in its sixth and final year, is funded and managed by GRDC, with contributions from Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA), the Pig, Dairy and Rural Industries Research and Development Corporations (PRDC, DRDC and RIRDC), Ridley Agriproducts Pty Ltd and the various research providers involved. The collaborating research organisations are the University of Sydney, SARDI, the University of New England (UNE), CSIRO, DNRE and NSW Agriculture. Overall coordination of the research is the responsibility of John L Black Consulting. This paper reports on progress within a PGLP component project, entitled “Rapid and Objective Analytical Tests” (DAS 341). This project involves the use of chemical, physical, in vitro and in vivo analyses of grains, relevant to both monogastric and ruminant animals. The NIR technique is an integral part of this research, given that the objective is to develop rapid tests for use at the site of grain collection and/or use. This would allow the test results to be used for pricing grains in accordance with their suitability as an animal feed.

NIR: a key component of the Premium Grains for Livestock Project

Mon, 01 Jan 2001 00:00:00 GMT

NIR: a key component of the Premium Grains for Livestock Project Flinn, P. C A review of how NIR is currently (2001) being used in the Premium Grains for Livestock Project to assess the nutritional value of grains for different livestock.