Effect of ensiling on the fatty acid composition of the resultant silage

Helen E. Warren, John K. S. Tweed, Susan Jean Youell, Richard J. Dewhurst, Michael R. F. Lee, Nigel D. Scollan

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference Proceeding (Non-Journal item)

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of wilting and additive type on the fatty acid profile of the resultant silage. Perennial ryegrass (PRG) [Lolium] and red clover [Trifolium pratense] were cut in the field and chopped immediately post-cutting. Pure PRG, clover and a PRG/clover mix (50:50 fresh basis) were wilted for 0, 24 or 48h and ensiled with water (control), a bacterial inoculant or an acid inoculant. Total fatty acids (FA) were higher in red clover compared with PRG silages averaging 15.6 vs. 11.9 g/kg freeze dry matter (FDM) (s.e.d.=0.38; P<0.001), respectively. Averaged across all 3 forages, wilting resulted in a 15% loss in total FA, 14.6 vs. 12.4 g/kg FDM (s.e.d.=0.38; P<0.001) for 0 and 48h, respectively. Similar trends were observed for C18:3n-3. Both additives reduced total FA on average 14.4, 13.7, and 13.3 g kg-1 (s.e.d.=0.38; P<0.01) for the control, bacterial inoculant and acid inoculant, respectively.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationMulti-Function Grasslands: Quality Forages, Animal Products and Landscapes
EditorsJ-L. Durand, J-C. Emile, C. Huyghe, G. Lemaire
PublisherEuropean Grassland Federation
Pages1001-101
Number of pages1
Publication statusPublished - 2002
EventProceedings of the 19th General Meeting of the European Grassland Federation (EGF) - La Rochelle, France
Duration: 27 May 200230 May 2002

Publication series

NameGrassland Science in Europe
Volume7

Conference

ConferenceProceedings of the 19th General Meeting of the European Grassland Federation (EGF)
Country/TerritoryFrance
CityLa Rochelle
Period27 May 200230 May 2002

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