Lallemand Animal Nutrition
Welcome back to the American Cattlemen Podcast. Just ahead, we have Dustin Hector, he’s The Director of Business Development for the American Cattlemen Media group, and he sits down with Dr. Kipp Karges with Lallemand Animal Nutrition. 
Dr. Kip Karges, a leading expert in ruminant nutrition with over 25 years of experience, shares insights into optimizing herd performance during challenging environmental conditions. With recent rainfall alleviating drought conditions in West Texas, producers face unique opportunities and challenges in managing their pastures and cattle nutrition. Dr. Karges emphasizes that green grass isn’t always synonymous with optimal nutrition. The rapid grass growth can lead to increased lignin development, which significantly reduces forage digestibility and challenges the nutritional needs of modern high-producing cattle herds.
The discussion centers on the importance of fiber digestibility, an often-overlooked component of cattle nutrition. Dr. Karges, with Lallemand Animal Nutrition, describes nutrition as a “nutrient pie” where energy carbohydrates represent the largest slice. To maximize this energy potential, producers must focus on stimulating rumen microorganisms through strategic supplementation. Key nutritional strategies include incorporating degradable protein, which acts as a “gas pedal” in the rumen, and utilizing probiotics like Levucell SC. These tools can improve forage digestibility by breaking down fiber structures and enhancing microbial fermentation. The live yeast probiotic works by attaching to fiber bundles, creating openings that allow microorganisms to more effectively digest nutrients. As producers look toward late summer and early fall, Dr. Karges recommends developing a flexible nutrition program. This involves considering early weaning options, evaluating supplementation needs, and implementing strategies to optimize forage utilization. By understanding the complex interactions between grass quality, rumen microbiology, and nutritional supplementation, cattle producers can enhance herd performance and resilience. The podcast provides a comprehensive overview of advanced nutritional management techniques, offering producers practical insights into maintaining cattle health and productivity during challenging seasonal transitions.
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