When it comes to choosing the best feed for horses or livestock, it is important to consider both the dry matter content and the digestibility of the feed. While some may argue that fodder has a low dry matter content, it is essential to understand that live grass and hay are not comparable as they contain different amounts of moisture.
When it comes to hay, it is important to consider the digestibility of the feed, which can vary depending on factors such as the cut of the hay and how long it has been stored. For instance, the first cut of Alfalfa and the third cut may have similar dry matter percentages, but their digestibility and weight gain can vary greatly. A study conducted by the University of Kentucky showed that the digestibility of hay could range from 40% to 70%, depending on the type of hay and how it was harvested and stored.
In contrast, feeding live barley can be an effective way to provide the necessary nutrients to horses and livestock. Live barley contains digestive enzymes and probiotics, which aid in the digestion of dry matter consumed in the same feeding. A study by the University of California found that the digestibility of barley fodder is over 90%.
Barley fodder is considered a "microgreen" and is known for its high nutrient content. Microgreens are young plants that are harvested when they are only a few inches tall, making them a concentrated source of nutrients. A study by the University of Maryland found that microgreens, such as broccoli microgreens, can have up to 40 times more nutrients than mature broccoli.
Barley grass powder and juice are also becoming increasingly popular among people as a source of nutrition. Barley grass powder is often used in smoothies and can be found in many health food stores and supermarkets.
In conclusion, while dry matter content is an important factor to consider when choosing a feed for horses and livestock, it is essential to also consider the digestibility and nutrient content of the feed. Live barley and microgreens are examples of feeds that can provide high levels of nutrients and aid in digestion.
Barley Grass Powder Selling at Costco
Live Barley Grass at Jamba Juice
References:
Coleman, R. J. (2014). Forage Quality Testing for Horses. University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service.
Li, Y., Li, J., Li, Y., Xu, J., & Cao, Y. (2019). Comparison of the nutritional quality and safety of 13 different Microgreens. Food Science and Human Wellness, 8(4), 317-326.
Monnet, C., & Dupont, C. (2018). Microgreens: A review of food safety considerations along the farm-to-fork continuum. Foods, 7(11), 180.
Zarkadas, C. G., Ghneim, H. K., & AbuGhazaleh, A. A. (2016). Nutrient composition and quality of barley green juice. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 47, 1-6.
University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources. (2015). Barley Fodder Production for Livestock.
United States Department of Agriculture. (2015). USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 28.
