by Klaas van Zanten
Ag tech Products, Inc.

Considering all the resources and effort that goes into harvesting and storing homegrown feeds, it makes sense that these feeds be of the highest value possible to the animal. In order to reduce fermentation and feed-out loss, many producers use Pro-Store inoculants.

Let's review the benefits of treating feeds with Pro-Store:

* Reduced dry matter loss--beneficial bacteria help produce a quicker, more efficient fermentation, therefore less heating occurs and more dry matter is saved.

* Longer bunk life--Pro-Store bacteria produce high levels of different acids, such as acetic acid, which has been shown to slow mold and yeast growth. This helps to keep the feed in front of the cows fresh for a longer period of time.

* More available protein--less heating during the fermentation process means less protein will be tied to the indigestible part of the fiber. The additional available protein will reduce the need for purchased protein.

* Improved Performance--there is a direct correlation between better fermented feeds, with higher levels, of energy and improved milk production and weight gain.

Wayne Stoltzfus, an Independent ANC consultant in Pennsylvania, did a small, on farm Pro-Store trial with ryelage. Two five gallon buckets were filled with67% moisture ryelage; one was treated with Pro-Store andone was not treated (control).

Here are the results:

Pro-Store treated ryelage had a lower pH compared to untreated (control) ryelage. A low pH is a direct measure of acid level, which controls spoilage organisms.

Pro-Store treated ryelage had nearly twice the lactic acid compared to that of the control ryelage. Volatile Fatty Acid (VFA) production, especially lactic acid and acetic acid, are key indicators of good fermentation. More acid means more energy available to the animals.

Pro-Store treated ryelage had a 99% lower yeast count than that of the control after four days of exposure to air. Aerobic stability of ryelage results in less spoilage on the face, less wasted forage and an overall longer bunk life. More valuable nutrients are preserved.

Pro-Store treated ryelage maintained the total level of VFA's, whereas the VFA's in the control were utilized after seven days. An effective level of VFAs is important to maintain aerobic stability (bunk life) in ryelage. With the reduction of VFA levels, spoilage organisms will begin to grow causing spoilage and heating to occur.

ANC's Pro-Store inoculant once again proved itself on the farm by effectively improving fermentation and bunk life. Are you taking advantage of Pro-Store's benefits on your farm?