Replacement of Monensin with a Proprietary Tannin-Blend Additive in Calf-Fed Holstein Steer Diets

Abstract

With the potential for ionophores to be excluded from diets of naturally fed cattle, tannin-based products could serve as replacements. The objective of this study was to test Silvafeed ByProX, a proprietary tannin-blend product, compared to monensin in terms of growth performance, carcass traits, and health traits in feedlot finishing diets of natural Holstein steers. Health diagnoses differed by treatment, where respiratory disease was less frequent and lameness was more frequent in ByProX-supplemented cattle. The frequency of digestive disturbances was not influenced by treatment. Feedlot performance and gain efficiency were improved with dietary monensin inclusion. Carcass performance was similar regardless of treatment. Plant secondary-derived metabolites were increased in muscle tissues with ByProX treatment. Silvafeed ByProX might maintain cattle health in the absence of monensin.