Feed & Forage Testing Labs

What Are Feed & Forage Testing Labs?

Feed and forage testing laboratories analyze samples of hay, silage, grain mixes, byproducts, and total mixed rations (TMR) to determine their nutrient content. Testing provides the data needed to formulate balanced rations and identify quality variations in feed ingredients.

Why Feed Testing Matters

Nutrient content of feeds—especially forages—varies dramatically. Two corn silage samples can differ by 20% in energy value. Without testing, you're guessing at what you're feeding, leading to over- or under-formulation, wasted money, and suboptimal cow performance.

Key Benefits

Accurate ration formulation: Match nutrients to cow requirements precisely
Cost optimization: Avoid over-supplementing expensive ingredients
Quality verification: Confirm purchased feeds meet specifications
Problem diagnosis: Identify feed-related issues affecting production or health
Inventory management: Know what you're working with across bunker faces

What to Test

Forages

Corn silage, haylage, hay, and other forages should be tested for dry matter, protein, fiber (NDF, ADF), energy (TDN, NEL), starch, ash, and minerals. NIR (near-infrared) analysis provides fast, economical results. Wet chemistry offers more precision for specific nutrients.

Commodities and Byproducts

Purchased ingredients like distillers grain, soybean meal, and corn should be verified to match specifications, especially from new suppliers.

Total Mixed Rations

TMR samples verify that the ration actually delivered matches the formulated recipe. Useful for troubleshooting mixing or delivery problems.

Testing Frequency

New feed sources: Test every new bunker, stack, or delivery
Routine monitoring: Monthly for key forages, especially corn silage
Problem situations: When milk production drops unexpectedly or health issues arise
Purchasing: Before accepting large deliveries of expensive ingredients

Choosing a Laboratory

NIR vs. Wet Chemistry

NIR is fast (often 24-hour turnaround) and economical ($15-30/sample). Wet chemistry is more accurate for specific nutrients but costs more and takes longer. Most dairies use NIR for routine testing and wet chemistry for problem-solving or research.

NFTA Certification

Look for laboratories certified by the National Forage Testing Association (NFTA), which ensures quality standards and consistency.

Do You Need Feed Testing?

Consider regular testing if:

You formulate rations with a nutritionist or consultant
Forage quality varies significantly on your farm
You purchase feeds and want to verify quality
Production or components are inconsistent

Testing may be less critical if:

You purchase only tested, certified feeds
Your feed sources are highly consistent
You're using simple feeding programs with minimal formulation

Cost Considerations

NIR forage analysis costs $15-30/sample. Comprehensive mineral panels add $20-50. TMR analysis is $20-35. The ROI comes from optimized rations—even small improvements in feed efficiency or component yield can save thousands annually.