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In today's feedlot operations, performance and cost control are more important than ever. One of the key decisions that can impact both is the form of supplement used, liquid or dry. While both deliver essential nutrients, each comes with trade-offs in handling, cost, and storage. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each to help you make the best choice for your operation.

Liquid Supplements

Liquid supplements are typically made from cane and beet molasses, often with condensed distillers solubles included. They tend to enhance the adherence of macro minerals, micro minerals, vitamins, and ionophores to feed ingredients. For best results, liquid supplements should be added after corn or earlage in the mixer, before adding other ingredients.

Advantages

• Ease of Mixing: Promotes even nutrient distribution.
• Enhanced Palatability: Cattle often consume liquid feed more readily, which can boost feed intake.

Disadvantages

• Storage and Shelf Life: Requires special storage and may spoil faster than dry options.
• Equipment Requirements: Needs pumps, motors, and plumbing to recirculate and lift product into the feed wagon.

Dry Supplements

Dry feedlot supplements come in forms such as mineral mix, pellets, or meal. These are typically added after the largest inclusion feed ingredient during mixing.

Advantages

• Long Shelf Life: More stable over time and less prone to spoilage.
• Simple Storage: Can be stored in bulk with no need for special equipment.

Disadvantages

• Mixing Challenges: Ensuring the even distribution of dry supplements in feed can be an issue.

• Lower Palatability: Cattle may find dry supplements less palatable, possibly reducing overall feed intake.

What Does the Research Say?

A 2018 study published in the Journal of Applied Animal Research found no significant differences between liquid and dry supplements in terms of average daily gain (ADG), geed conversion, dry matter intake, carcass yield, or total tract digestion of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and starch.

This means you can base your decision on practical factors like cost, storage, and ease of use knowing that both forms can support optimal cattle performance.

Let’s Talk About Cost-Effective Solutions

With access to cost-effective ingredients and efficient local manufacturing, dry supplements from FCS can provide a more economical solution without compromising performance.

Let’s talk about what makes the most sense for your feedlot.