However, as moisture of the corn decreases below 25 percent, finer grinding may be necessary to achieve proper packing. Finer grinds also permit a slower feeding rate once the silo is opened. If the feeding rate is fast enough to prevent deterioration as the grain is fed, a coarser grind is recommended. As the silo is being filled, only enough corn kernels need to be ground or broken up to permit a firm pack. Compared to dry corn, the feeding value of ground high moisture corn tends to vary with roughage level fed and storage method.
Feed efficiencies are similar for both corn types, however.
The lower gains experienced with high moisture corn may be due to a more rapid ruminal digestion of the corn starch, resulting in a greater chance of digestive disturbances, such as acute or subclinical acidosis, occurring. Past research results from Oklahoma show that cattle fed processed grains are more predisposed to acidosis conditions. The more rapid ruminal starch digestion is primarily due to the increased solubilization of the corn starch as a result of the fermentation process. As starch becomes more soluble it is digested more rapidly and possibly to a greater extent than less soluble starch. Grinding or rolling corn also increases the rate of starch digestion.