Mineral Result Data for Fodder Beet Bulbs and Tops
Mineral Result Data for Fodder Beet Bulbs and Tops
Date: 5 Feb 2020
Author: Hill Laboratories
In our September 2015 newsletter, we published a summary of mineral result data for both Fodder Beet Bulb and Tops; data that underpins the histogram ranges showing on our test reports for these sample types. Four years on, with a much larger data set now available, we have repeated that data extraction exercise and can advise that the “interpretive” ranges we show as histograms remain unchanged. There is some known variability for a few elements, largely due to soil contamination, and it is important to understand that fodder beet varieties are not differentiated.
Given fodder beet is not usually a sole-diet, it is helpful to know the mineral content to ensure livestock diets can be managed for animal health and performance. The typical result value data is re-published here for your interest. Medium ranges for histogram reporting have been set around these mid-point typical values.
Note that the potential metabolisable energy (ME) of bulbs is high, being a derived value from highly digestible (low fibre) dry matter. Laboratory measured ME values for supplementary feeds should largely be considered theoretical, as the actual energy available to the animal depends on a combination of all feeds eaten, as well as many other determining factors. It is advisable to engage with a ruminant nutritionist for help with livestock feed balancing.
To find out more about the pasture and forages testing we have available, please click here.