Experiment: RUMIVITAL®b ensures optimised feed conversion in bull fattening
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With RUMIVITAL®, ISF Schaumann Forschung has succeeded in further developing the RUMIVITAL® active ingredient complex, which is specifically targeted at fermentation processes in classic bull fattening rations. The efficiency of starch digestion is increased, particularly in maize-based rations and feed mixtures with a high proportion of easily digestible carbohydrates. This is demonstrated by the results of the ISF as well as by practical application.
In bull fattening, the focus is on optimal feed utilisation, high daily weight gains and good carcass quality. The nutrient intake from the forage must be fully utilised. This is a challenge, especially when the digestibility of ruminant rations often varies considerably when silage and feed are changed depending on the harvest time and fertilisation.
Challenges for digestibility in the fattening phase
The higher the NDF and ADF content, the longer it takes for rumen microbes to break down the cell wall fraction. Rations with a high proportion of easily digestible carbohydrates also cause the pH value in the rumen to drop – the buffer capacity is low.
RUMIVITAL®b improves crude fibre digestion and rumen buffering
RUMIVITAL®b makes nutrients available that would otherwise leave the rumen undigested or whose breakdown and passage rate would be significantly prolonged. Improved fibre breakdown increases the buffer capacity, so that pH fluctuations are absorbed and the risk of acidosis is reduced – a particularly valuable effect in maize-based rations for bull fattening.
Rumen microbes find starch more readily available
Another advantage is the improved availability of starch for rumen microbes. The efficiency of starch digestion is increased, particularly in maize-based rations and feed mixtures with a high proportion of easily digestible carbohydrates. RUMIVITAL®b thus promotes the breakdown of crude fibre, structural substances and starch fractions. Improved fibre digestion generates more energy from the forage and increases feed efficiency.
ISF Schaumann Research achieves improved digestibility
ISF Schaumann Research has achieved significant results in bull fattening through the continuous development of typical ration requirements. In order to achieve optimal results even at lower rumen pH values, the new ferment product RUMIVITAL®b was also tested in the SARA buffer. In trials with RUMIVITAL®b, the digestibility of NDF was increased by 9.2 percentage points and the digestibility of the entire ration by 4 percentage points (see figure). This results in further efficiency in feed conversion, associated savings in feed costs and improved buffering of the rumen.
