Research at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Kansas State University has documented feed efficiency gains and improved silage quality with an enhanced feed corn hybrid (Enogen Feed), according to an announcement from Syngenta.

In the university feeding trials, the corn hybrid with enhanced amylase levels improved feed efficiency by an average of 5% in stocker and finishing cattle, Syngenta said. Research shows that the enhanced feed corn hybrid can increase the potential value of corn in a cattle ration, whether fed as whole grain, dry-rolled corn or silage.

Studies conducted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln have shown that test rations with enhanced feed corn hybrids (fed as dry-rolled corn):

* Increase the potential for a higher percentage of post-ruminal starch digestibility;

* Increase total tract digestibility of starch, and

* Decrease fecal output of starch, which indicates increased starch digestibility and better utilization.

In two separate studies at Kansas State, and consistent with research conducted with finishing cattle at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, feed efficiency was improved in stocker cattle fed the enhanced feed corn versus conventional corn fed either as grain or silage, Syngenta said. Kansas State research also showed that the enhanced feed corn silage is less prone to spoilage, which means it may last longer than other silage.

Syngenta explained that the tested enhanced feed corn hybrids not only contain elite genetics, but they also have the added value of in-seed amylase technology.

“Corn is about 75% starch — a complex carbohydrate that provides energy to cattle to grow and finish,” said Duane Martin, commercial traits manager for corn and soybean product marketing at Syngenta. “Because of the in-seed amylase technology, ... starch is easier for cattle to digest. Improved starch utilization can result in more available energy and can help increase the feed value of corn in a cattle ration and improve profit potential.”