Liquid feed supplements

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Liquid Feed Supplements  IzA!
Guide 400 B-209
Many dealers and farmers say "liquid feed" when
they are talking about liquid feed supplements.
Emphasis is needed on the word "supplements"
because these mixtures are not complete feeds by
themselves. When a liquid feed supplement is used,
a sufficient supply of energy must be available
for good animal performance.
Liquid feed supplements are available in a variety
of formulations from many feed manufacturers. Like
commercial feeds, they are registered with state feed-
control officials; so labeling must be in compliance
with state requirements.
TVa/cv-Water is often used in liquid supplements
as a diluent or carrier for some minerals or to dilute
and dissolve urea or a phosphorus source. Some
manufacturers may dilute supplements with so much
water that they become inferior.
Minerals—Most liquid feed supplements contain
trace minerals. These trace minerals vary and sometimes carry a special mineral mix, such as high
magnesium for grass tetany control in problem areas.
The amount and type of minerals may be limited by
the ability of the supplement to hold the minerals
in solution.
Liquid feed supplements are primarily made of
molasses, urea, and phosphorus.
Molasses—The molasses used in liquid feed supplements is usually made from cane or beets. Wood
molasses, however, may be used instead of part or all
of the cane or beet molasses. The amount of molasses
in a liquid supplement varies from 50 to 70 percent
of the total weight.
Protein -Other than the small amount of protein
in molasses, urea is the common source of protein in
liquid supplements. Some products may contain
distillers' solubles, fermentation extractives, or a
sugarbeet by-product, for more natural protein. The
type and amount of protein may vary among manufacturers. Labeling laws require that the amount of
nonprotein nitrogen in a supplement must be written
on the label.
Phosphorus -Most liquid supplements contain V2 to
2 percent phosphorus, often phosphoric acid. Phosphorus is often used to partially control intake;
variations in the amount of phosphorus may be for
this reason. Phosphorus from sources most commonly
used in liquid supplements is readily available to the
animal.
Vitamins -Most liquid feed supplements contain
vitamins A and D. The statility and availability of
these vitamins in liquid supplements are good, if they
are used within the time periods on the label.
Other Additives-Other compounds are often present in liquid feed supplements. Fats, both animal
and vegetable, have been included in an effort to
increase the amount of energy. Alcohols (both ethyl
alcohol and propylene glycol) are sometimes added
to increase energy. Price and market conditions often
determine how much of, or whether, these products
should be included.
Methods  of   Use
Liquid feed supplements are usually fed in one of
three ways.
/;; the complete ration, liquid feed supplements are
mixed with processed grain and other feed stuffs.
This method is preferred by many for feedlot cattle
or for fattening lambs. Some dairymen prefer this
method.
As top dressing, liquid feed supplement may be
sprayed or poured on feed in bunks for beef cattle,
dairy cattle, or sheep.
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