Nutritional and Non-nutritional Aspects of Forage

Abstract

Many forage types are available, typically divided into cool or warm season grasses and legumes, which can be fed as fresh pasture or after preservation. Testing for nutrient content confirms what should be supplemented to make up shortfalls. Although testing is recommended, it is not always practical. Typical values for the forage type are available; however, they cannot be relied on for actual content. Non-nutritional aspects must also be taken into account. The provision of complementary feeds to ensure adequate vitamin and mineral intake is recommended. Additional supplementary high-quality protein may be required to meet essential amino acid requirements.

Keywords: Fiber; Forage; Grasses; Legumes; Minerals; Mycotoxins; Nitrate; Nonstructural carbohydrate; Pasture; Roughage; Supplementation; Vitamins.