Beef farmers are being encouraged to focus on nutrition pre and post turnout to maximise DLWG and make the most of booming beef prices.

With domestic beef supply predicted to remain tight this year, avoiding a growth check in youngstock caused by nutritional deficiencies at turnout means farmers could see significant financial returns - a welcome relief to many considering the current political outlook for the sector.

“With recent weather conditions, it’s really important that farmers don’t over-egg what grass can deliver at present,” says Richard Wynn, head of technical for Crystalyx.

“Current grass quality is ok, but the recent dry weather and cool nights means there isn’t much about. Once we get rain and if this is matched with a rise in overnight temperatures there will be a flush of grass, but we need to consider what is in front of us.

“Supplementing at turnout with a suitable molassed feed lick, that has a good overall mineral, vitamin and trace element package, is encouraged to ensure growing cattle receive the right nutrition that grass alone may not provide and they hit their DLWG targets.”

“Balancing the calcium to phosphorus input ratio is important for youngstock to support correct bone formation and growth. Ideally, the ratio should be at least two to one, which is what is available in Crystalyx Cattle Booster.”

And for suckler cows, a feed lick can help to provide the minerals and trace elements that can be lacking in grass. The obvious example at this time of year is magnesium supplementation. “Particularly when the weather is cold, the ability of grass to take-up magnesium is reduced. This is a particular risk for suckler cows, given the demand for from milk production.”

He adds that feed licks are also great for supporting rumen performance: “The salvia created when animals consume feed licks helps with rumen buffering, creating an optimal environment for microbes to function effectively.

“This means consumed fibre can be broken down efficiently, allowing animals to extract more from forage – whether grass or silage.”

Proven financial returns

Independent research conducted by the Scottish Agricultural College (SAC) on a commercial beef farm in Scotland has shown impressive results from supplementing heifers with Crystalyx Cattle Booster pre and post turnout. The trial found that the heifers grew at an average of 1.28kg/day over a 45-day period, a 28% increase in growth compared to those with no access to Cattle Booster.

The financial returns are equally compelling. With an average liveweight price of £2.90/kg, the additional profit from supplementing with Crystalyx Cattle Booster was £32.62 per animal over the 45-day trial period, resulting in an 8:1 return on investment.

“To realise the benefit of the increased beef prices,keep an eye on youngstock post turnout to check they are growing to target. If you are in doubt over grass quality take a sample and get it checked. Don’t assume it contains everything needed to support livestock growth.

“This attention to detail, combined with supplementation at critical times could really help boost the bottom line for many beef farmers this year,” says Dr Wynn.