RFV
Relative Feed Value this number is a calculated number based on a formula
utilizing protein, ADF, NDF, and other factors to establish a score for
comparing various feedstuff to each other, on an equal basis.
Optimal number 150<
RFQ Relative Forage Quality this number
has been designed and is being promoted by The University of Wisconsin. It may
one day be the standard of the industry, though at this time it is not. In
addition to the numbers used to determine RFV, the RFQ numbers also include the
48 hour digestibility numbers (amount of material digested and processed within
48 hours of ingestion). The test is $14-30 more than the RFV test and is
requested on fewer than 20% of samples nationally. While both numbers are valid,
trying to compare a sample based on RFV and a sample based on RFQ will lead to
faulty conclusions.
%CP - Percentage Crude Protein this number
is the percent of plant material by molecular weight that is made up of protein.
This is one of the key energy indicators of forage quality and is a key element
for dairy health and milk production.
Optimal Number 20<
% ADF Percent Acid Detergent Fiber this
number indicates percentage of highly indigestible or slowly digestible fiber in
a feed or forage. The lower the Acid detergent fiber, the more digestible the
feed is and the higher the energy value of the feed.
Optimal Number 30>
% NDF Neutral Detergent Fiber this
number indicates the percentage of cell wall material or plant structure in
tested forages. The lower the NDF number the more feed an animal will consume.
NDF also includes the overall ADF components and is inversely related to intake.
Therefore, lower the NDF numbers are preferred
Optimal Number 40>
% Lignin this number indicates the
percentage of forage comprised of lignin, a biologically unavailable mixture of
polymers of phenolic acid. Lignin is a primary structural component of
mature plants and trees. A high level in hay and forages indicates a delayed
harvest or a very
stemmy crop and will resulting an indigestible crop best suited for dry cows,
steers and bulls;
utility hay.
Optimal Number 8>
NEL Net Energy for Lactation this number
indicates the total amount of energy available to
the animal for normal body maintenance and milk secretion/production.
Optimal Number 0.60<
% Calcium / % Phosphorous these are
crucial macro nutrients necessary for proper cell function, health, breed back,
milk production, and tissue development. These elements are found in normal
healthy animal tissue and consumption of these in the feed ration helps serve as
a supply for future use.
Optimal Numbers Cal 1.5< Phos .27<
