The techniques and technical problems associated with the processing of naturally and artificially dried forage

Abstract

The principal objective to date in packaging dried forages into wafers, cobs or pellets has been to improve handling and storage. Over 80% of the dried forage produced in the UK is still used as a component in pig and poultry rations, for which a milled and pelleted product is the most suitable. However there is evidence that the different forms of package are not of the same nutritive value to ruminants. With the increasing interest in the use of dried forages for ruminant feeding it is important to examine packaging in these dual rôles, as both mechanical and nutritional treatments.