 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Report and comments by James I. Sprague Ph.D. Livestock Nutritionist
Not on Market Yet Optaflexx does not change the eating quality of the beef.
A Benefit Beyond the FeedyardElanco stresses that Optaflexx will have a benefit beyond the feedyard. Here is a quote from their presentation, ".... it fits the packers demands for increased yield of closely trimmed boneless retail cuts, while maintaining eating quality." Benefits Feedlots Three Ways The recommended program for steers will probably be 200 mg per day for 28 days. Their research indicates that it will result in: (1) increased live weight gain of 17 pounds per head, (2) increased red meat yield of 14 pounds, and (3) an improvement in efficiency by helping the cattle better utilize nutrients. It is cleared to be fed at a range of 8.2 to 24.6 grams per ton (70 to 430 milligrams per head per day) for 28 to 42 days. It appears this wide range will give the industry a flexible tool to achieve the goals of the feed additive. A Feedlot's Marketing Program May Change Since one of the major benefits of the use of this additive is primarily carcass value, this may change the marketing of finished cattle. The use of Optaflexx seems most applicable to feedlots that market on the carcass basis or a grid system. It may not fit every feedlot. For example, a variable set of cattle may need to be marketed over a 60 day period. Another consideration, pens may need to be sorted into outcome groups prior to placing on the finish ration. The additive may fit nicely with feedlots that are using an ultrasound sorting systems to segregate cattle into marketing groups. Feeding Changes at the Feedlot For feedlots that use medicated supplements and premixes another supplement bin will be required. Feedlots with "micro-nutrient" machines will have an advantage, because the only change will be extra finishing rations. Optaflexx is mixed in the diet in minute amounts, similar to the quantities of other ingredients added to the diet such as vitamins and minerals. No ration changes are recommended if Optaflexx is added to the ration. Marketing Window Since the additive is approved for feeding during the final 28 to 42 days of the feeding period, there is a 14 day window to market cattle. Elanco recommends feeding Optaflexx for at least the minimum 28 days to get a better return on your investment. Feeding Optaflexx for less than 28 days has no negative impact on safety, however Elanco cautions that less benefit will be realized. Runoff Concerns According to Elanco, Optaflexx is not prone to groundwater leaching because it binds to soil particles. It also dissipates from soil rapidly due to its photosensitivity. Unlike ionophores, Optaflexx is not toxic to horses, and have been proven safe in various wildlife species, including bobwhite quail, mallard ducks, rainbow trout and bluegill. ©
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
All information is copywrited by Feed Lot magazine and cannot be printed or re-printed
without the publishers express consent. Please contact
Feed Lot Magazine for reprint and copy authorization.
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||