Effect of Steam Processing and Flaking Milo and Barley on Performance and Digestion by Steers

Abstract

Three fattening trials were conducted to determine the utilization of steam-processed, flaked milo compared with dry-rolled milo. Two trials with similar treatments were conducted with barley. The finishing rations contained 10% crude fiber. A digestion trial with a 7% crude fiber ration was conducted to determine the digestibility of a steam-processed, flaked milo ration and a dry-rolled milo ration. The steam-processed, flaked milo was prepared by subjecting the milo to low-pressure, high-moisture steam for approximately 25 min. before rolling. The chamber temperature averaged 99° C, and the final moisture content of the flake from the roller was 17.8%. The steam-processed, flaked barley was similarly treated, but the final moisture level averaged only 13.8%. Steam processing and flaking milo increased daily gain and feed intake over the dry-rolled milo ration by 0.12 kg. and 0.45 kg., respectively. Feed requirements were reduced by 38 kg. per 100 kg. of gain due to processing. Steam processing and flaking barley increased daily gain and feed intake over the dry-rolled barley ration by 0.10 kg. and 0.86 kg., respectively. Steam processing barley had no effect on feed efficiency. Steam processing and flaking milo significantly (P<.05) increased the digestibility of the nitrogen-free extract and total digestible nutrients on a 77% grain ration. The estimated total digestible nutrients of the milo were increased from 71 to 79% by steam processing. Protein digestibility was not affected significantly. Ether extract digestibility was significantly (P<.05) lowered by steam processing. Copyright © 1966. American Society of Animal Science . Copyright 1966 by American Society of Animal Science