Further Observations on the Composition of Grass Silage

Abstract

Results of analysis of a large number of samples of grass silage accumulated in connection with studies from 1937 to 1953 were compiled, correlated, and summarized. Use of preservatives in general lowered significantly the volatile base and butyric acid content of silage and significantly raised the content of lactic acid. Quality in silage, as indicated by low pH, low content of volatile bases and butyric acid, and high content of lactic acid, was best attained by the addition of sodium metabisulfite, ground wheat, or hominy meal. Sugar content was much higher in silage preserved with either liquid sulfur dioxide or sodium metabisulfite than in silage preserved by any other method. A study of correlation coefficients indicates that a good estimate of the quality of silage can be obtained by determining the water content and the pH. The excellent quality of silage preserved with sodium metabisulfite is shown in considerable detail.