Effects of VitaFerm mineral on feed efficiency in weaned calves

Project Abstract

Improving production efficiency is an important goal within the beef cattle industry as producers work to meet the nutritional demands of a growing population while maintaining sustainable production practices. Mineral supplementation is an important component of beef cattle nutrition, particularly in the southeastern United States, where environmental conditions such as heat stress may affect animal performance. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of VitaFerm One mineral supplementation, with and without a heat-stress component, on growth performance and trace mineral status in weaned commercial beef calves. Approximately 35 commercial beef yearlings, including heifers and bulls, were assigned to two treatment groups with beginning body weight and sex distributed evenly between groups. The control group received VitaFerm One mineral, while the treatment group received VitaFerm One mineral containing a heat-stress component. Both groups grazed pasture and had free-choice access to their respective mineral throughout the approximately seven-month study. Body weights were collected once monthly to evaluate growth patterns and overall weight gain. During the final two months of the study, blood samples were collected, processed to obtain serum, and submitted for analysis of trace mineral concentrations. It is hypothesized that calves receiving the mineral containing the heat-stress component will demonstrate greater weight gain and improved production efficiency compared with calves receiving the control mineral. Additionally, serum mineral analysis will provide insight into the trace mineral status of the calves and potential differences between supplementation programs. Understanding these differences may help determine whether incorporating a heat-stress component into a mineral program provides measurable benefits to beef cattle performance. Results from this study may provide practical information for beef producers when evaluating mineral supplementation programs and making management decisions related to cattle growth, mineral status, environmental adaptation, and overall production efficiency. This research may also contribute to a greater understanding of how nutritional management can influence beef cattle performance under environmental stress.

Funding Type

Research Grant

Academic College

Hutson School of Agriculture

Area/Major/Minor

Animal & Equine Science

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

Classification

Senior

Name

Lydia O'Sullivan, PhD

Academic College

Hutson School of Agriculture

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