GMO-corn in animal feed

Hennie: I have never heard that cattle, dairy or otherwise, could not use GMO corn very well. I'd like to know where you got such information. It sounds like someone with an agenda against GMO crops all together, but I dont't know that. I have also been to South Africa and never heard such claims there or anywhere. Mike Watkins Biomin America

Mike, Thank you for your comment. One of the farmers that I assist, went to a study group where one of the lecturers (a animal feed fundi?) told them not to use GMO maize in dairy rations. I know that cattle do not utilize GMO maize rests (remains) very well. A lot of farmers have noticed that already in the north west province of South Africa. But I never heard anything about the maize itself. Not even in one of our animal science congresses. Thanks again.

Hennie: As I'm sure you know most of the corn varieties planted in the US are GMO. Much of that is planted for silage for dairy rations and fed as a major ingredient in lactation rations. The beef feedlot industry feeds a lot of the remains (stalks) for fiber in rations because hay and other forages are in short supply (drought) and cost too much. They also feed a lot of silage in some regions, both corn and sorghum silages from GMO and conventional varieties. The only reason I know of for not feeding dry stalks to lactating dairy cattle is because of the low digestibility whether the corn is a GMO or a conventional variety. I'm sure they could be a part of some rations because straw is added to some rations for scratch factor and energy dilution where needed. Regards, Mike

There is discussion that certain varieties (NOT most) of GMO corn do not grind well. When introduced into the grinder, the corn is turned into a fine powder and yield (out of the grinder) is reduced. I don't know which varieties, how often, implications for feeding value, etc., but this is something that is at least being discussed. It would be wise for everyone to learn more about this, and not turn a blind eye to a potential problem that could likely be fixed.