Forage Pellets: A Sustainable Feed Solution for Livestock in Nepal

By Dr. Mohamad Husneid Azad, Veterinary Doctor and Animal Science Researcher

In recent years, forage pellets have become a popular and efficient alternative feed for livestock, especially in dairy farming. Forage pellets are made from dried forage materials such as alfalfa and grasses, which are compressed into small, uniform pieces typically measuring 0.25″ in width and 0.75 to 1.25″ in length, though the size may vary. These pellets are increasingly used for their ease of transport and convenience in feeding livestock.

Research has shown that pelleted forage can significantly improve the intake and utilization of energy by dairy cows. Erikson et al. (1968) discovered higher concentrations of Volatile Fatty Acids (VFA) in cows fed pelleted forages compared to those given wafers or cobs. Other studies have also highlighted the benefits of pelleting ground rations, including an increase in VFA concentration, which is crucial for better digestion and energy extraction.

Dr. Mohamad Husneid Azad, an Animal Science researcher working with the Nepal Agricultural Research Council since 2012, has been at the forefront of researching forage pellets in Nepal. His pioneering work at the National Animal Nutrition Research Centre demonstrated that legumes like Stylo can replace 20–40% of commercial dairy feed, offering a sustainable alternative while improving milk production.

Benefits of Forage Pellets

One of the key advantages of forage pellets is their ability to add value to forage crops. They can be stored for long periods, making them an excellent option for supplementing livestock feed during the winter months. Pelleted forage can improve the diet of ruminants such as cattle, buffalo, sheep, and goats. For dairy animals, particularly, legumes like Stylo in pellet form can help increase milk production and improve the health of animals during advanced pregnancy stages.

The pelleting process involves grinding and compressing the forage, which helps in reducing the particle size. This not only increases the rate at which feed passes through the digestive system but also enhances bacterial fermentation in the rumen. As a result, animals are able to digest feed more efficiently and consume more nutrients, which leads to increased voluntary intake.

Current Situation in Nepal

In Nepal, several forage pellet factories have emerged, and farmers in milk production areas have started adopting this technology to improve the feed quality for their livestock. Particularly in the Terai region, where dairy farming is a significant part of the economy, forage pellets are helping to boost milk production and improve the overall health of dairy animals.

Stylo Forage Pellet Trial Results

Dr. Azad’s Stylo forage pellet trial at the National Animal Nutrition Research Centre has yielded promising results. The study, which tracked feed intake and milk production over a period of 40 days, found that there was no significant difference in milk production between the different diet groups. However, the trial revealed that Stylo pellets could effectively replace a portion of expensive commercial feed while maintaining good milk yield. The average milk production over the trial period was as follows:

Week 1: 6.37 ± 2.5 liters Week 2: 4.58 ± 1.8 liters Week 3: 5.79 ± 1.7 liters

Week 4: 6.33 ± 1.7 liters Week 5: 7.29 ± 1.5 liters Day 40: 6.12 ± 2.2 liters

Milk composition also showed consistent quality, with fat content, protein levels, and other milk solids remaining stable throughout the trial period.

Conclusion

Dr. Azad’s research highlights the potential of Stylo forage pellets as a cost-effective and nutritious alternative to traditional commercial feeds. By replacing 20-40% of commercial feed with Stylo pellets, dairy farmers can reduce feed costs while maintaining or even improving milk production. However, Dr. Azad emphasizes the need for further research to determine the optimal levels of legume forage inclusion in animal diets. For farmers, incorporating forage pellets into their livestock’s diet presents a promising strategy to improve both animal health and farm profitability.

The Future of Forage Pellets in Nepal

As forage pellet technology continues to gain traction in Nepal, it promises to revolutionize the way dairy farmers manage feed resources. By increasing the efficiency of feed utilization and reducing dependence on expensive concentrates, forage pellets are paving the way for a more sustainable and profitable dairy industry in Nepal.