Farmers have a new tool in the kit when it comes to making the best feed decisions for their cows.
Feedscan uses cutting-edge technology to analyse the composition of pasture and silage, pinpointing exactly what supplementary feed livestock need to achieve the best results.
Exclusive to Agrifeeds in New Zealand, Feedscan uses what is known as "near infra-red technology" to diagnose what is contained within the grass. That allows farmers to create a bespoke feed regime that perfectly fits their farm and maximises production.
Feedscan analysis is undertaken by Agrifeed experts, who bring the device to the farm and perform a test on the spot. This analysis provides detailed information on the energy, protein, water-soluble carbohydrates and other components of the grass being tested.
The real-time results allow farmers to make quick and timely choices about their feed regime.
Stu Bruce is the animal nutrition sales representative from Agrifeeds and says that, over the past few years, many farmers have been complaining that there's "no guts in the pasture".
"What that means is that it lacks water-soluble carbohydrates and sugars," he explains.
Agrifeeds worked with farmers to introduce such supplements as molasses to boost the feed. With a bespoke plan in place, farmers with sub-optimal pasture have been able to provide their cows with nutrition they would otherwise be lacking.
Feedscan isn't just for grass, however. The technology can also be used to measure grass and maize silage, helping farmers decide when to use their best-quality fodder.
"It's really useful as it allows farmers to introduce good silage at important lactation periods," says Bruce.
Feedscan analysis of silage produced in May this year revealed that it was of very high quality, he says. That allowed farmers to be judicious in their use of the excellent feed source throughout the season.
It's recommended that Feedscan analyses are undertaken during calving, pre-mating and late summer. Once the grass and silage is analysed, the results can be used to create a feed plan to help extend lactation and provide nutritional support for cows during key times.
Technology such as Feedscan is part of the new farming landscape. There used to be fewer options for farmers, with a lot of decisions based on instinct and guess work.
By using this kind of technology (known as "dry chemistry" by those in the trade) Agrifeeds can work with farmers to offer a package that allows them to make the best feed decisions to driver profitability.
The introduction of Feedscan technology represents the re-positioning of Agrifeeds (an amalgamation of INL, Agri-feeds and 4Seasons Feed) as more than a feed importer – instead a company that supports farmers on multiple levels.
They essentially become part of the team, allowing farmers to understand the nutrient deficiencies in theirgrass and silage, and helping them make better feeding decisions and increase productivity throughout the year.