Nutritional Analysis of Forages and Feeds

Nutritional analysis of forages and feeds by NIR allowing
Parameters covered for forage analysis: Dry matter, digestible energy, crude protein, fibre fractions and ash
Parameters covered for feed analysis: Dry matter, oil A, oil B, fibre, protein and ash

Taking a representative sample:
The analytical result is only as good as the sample submitted for analysis. Collecting a representative sample is the first step of the analytical procedure.
Hay & Haylage: Different types, cuttings or lots should be analysed separately. Take at least a handful from at least 5 bales selected at random. Combine all the samples and submit as one sample for analysis. The sample should weigh at least 100g.
Grass: Randomly select between 15 –20 sites on a ‘W’ formation across the field where the animals have been grazing and clip at grazing height. Combine in a clean plastic bucket and mix. Take at least 500g and pack tightly in a plastic bag and submit sample as fresh as possible.
Grains & Mixed Feeds: Bulk loads: Randomly collect around 10 samples as the grain is discharged and combine in a clean plastic bucket. Submit at least 500 g for analysis. Bags: collect grab samples from as many different areas of the bag(s) as possible, mixing if possible to ensure a good representative sample is taken. Submit at least 100g for analysis

Sample Requirement Turnaround Time Price Sample Form Laboratory Species
“Hay, haylage, grass, silage, animal feed and feed ingredients Representative sample in a large ziplock bag” 5 days €60.00 Nutrition Quality request form Environment & Nutrition All

Reference Ranges

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