Effects of protein supplementation using corn by-products in southeastern beef cattle production

Abstract

Three experiments were conducted to compare corn gluten feed (CGF), and distillers dried grains plus solubes (DDGS) as protein supplements for cattle from weaning to slaughter. Experiment 1 studied the effects of DDGS and CGF on stocker performance and compositional development. Feeding DDGS increased ADG, but decreased intramuscular fat and ribeye area. Experiment 2 evaluated these by-products in a feedlot system. Performance data, rumen VFAs, BUN, glucose, insulin, ultrasound, and carcass characteristics were examined. Steers fed DDGS had increased G:F, and both by-products had decreased cost of gain compared to SBM. Experiment 3 examined meat quality characteristics of strip steaks from the above steers. Differences included redder steaks from steers fed SBM after 9 d retail display and increased discoloration in steaks from steers fed DDGS. Increased PUFA concentrations were found in steaks from steers fed DDGS.