DairyTalk 724: Controlled Intake, Improved Efficiency: A Different Approach to Raising Dairy Heifers - by Helmut Demmelhuber

DairyTalk by Helmut Demmelhuber · Oct 16, 2026 · 20m

Does unrestricted feed access really produce better dairy heifers, or can carefully controlled intake deliver equal growth with greater efficiency? Based on a technical article examining feeding strategies from six months of age through calving, this podcast compares conventional ad libitum feeding with limit-feeding programs designed to match nutrient supply more closely to growth requirements. Traditional systems using lower-energy, freely available rations can lead to excessive dry matter intake and increased manure production, while controlled feeding allows more precise management of…