Understanding Feed Tags Key for Cattle Producers

Attendees of Central Dakota Ag Day at the Carrington Research Center got a hands-on look at livestock nutrition and feed management this week, with a focus on understanding feed tags. NDSU Extension Livestock System Specialist Carl Hoppe emphasized the importance of reading labels carefully to ensure cattle receive proper nutrition. “Feed tags are things that are put on feed bags to know what you’re buying. Most people think about it when you look at dog food or cat food or cattle feed—it’s the same idea,” Hoppe said. “Usually, it talks about crude protein levels and any other ingredients that are added, like antibiotics or feed additives, as well as mineral and vitamin levels. You have to really know what you’re looking at, because sometimes information can be strategically left out or put in.” Hoppe also highlighted the importance of mineral bioavailability. “Some minerals are not very bioavailable, in other words, the animal can’t extract all the good out of it. Others could be 120 to 130 percent better in their ability for the animal to utilize it. Manufacturers have started using more bioavailable minerals, but include less of it in the feed. You need to check the feed tag to understand what’s actually included and how it impacts your ration.” Attendees were encouraged to contact local county extension agents or livestock specialists for guidance on feed selection and nutrition management. The event offered practical advice to help cattle producers improve herd health and efficiency during the winter months.