Protein switch saves money

Livestock farmers can cut costs by switching from high-priced rapemeal to protein enriched molasses products as an alternative protein source, according to SvG Intermol’s Phil Holder.

With spot rape prices of more than £140/t, both Regumaize 44 and 65 are not only cheaper but also supply protein, on an ERDP basis, at a lower cost a unit. “As rapemeal is £140/t, the ERDP unit cost equates to £6.25. However, both Regumaize varieties works out to be considerably lower, at £5.32 and £3.93 respectively.

“Put in another context, to supply the same amount of ERDP as rapemeal, then Regumaize 44 is worth £150/t and Regumaize 65 is worth £220,” he adds.

Coupled with regulated release protein, Regumaize products are an excellent source of sugar, containing about 55% compares to only 9% in rapemeal. The palatability of mollasses based products enhances feed intakes, and the low substitution rates maximise use of home grown feeds.