Dry and Periparturient Cow Adaptation to Optimized Starch Assimilation

Abstract

The objective of this article was to describe how proper adaptation to starch assimilation during dry period and periparturient phase can improve production and health in dairy cows. Starch is a major component in dairy cow rations that requires optimization in both inclusion rate and processing.1–4 Although not always wise, it is a common practice to feed up to 35-40% cereal grains in dairy diets (dry matter basis). This is very risky when highly fermentable grains such as barley and wheat are fed. But, it is not as risky when corn and sorghum are fed because these grains possess harder endosperm (comparing barley and wheat) that is fermented much less rapidly in the rumen.5–8