Classification of Forages According to Their Energy | LINASSON
In animal nutrition, the energy that forage provides to animals is a determining factor when choosing the product.
Not all forages provide the same amount of energy; their value depends on the species and the preservation method used.
We can divide them into three groups:
1- High-Energy Forages
Alfalfa hay, corn silage, forage oats, ryegrass…
They are characterized by:
- Higher content of digestible carbohydrates
- Better digestibility
- Lower content of lignified fiber
Used for dairy cows in production or growing animals.
2- Medium-Energy Forages
Grass hay, pastures at an intermediate stage of maturity…
They are characterized by:
- Intermediate digestibility
- Higher fiber content
- Moderate energy level
Suitable for maintenance of adult livestock.
3- Low-Energy Forages
Mature or very dry grasses, low-quality hay…
They are characterized by:
- High Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF)
- Low digestibility
- Lower energy content
More commonly used as a source of effective fiber rather than as an energy supply.
If you need advice on which forage to use for your animals, contact us.
All the information is available on our website: www.linasson.com.