Dry rolling usually results in a larger particle size that contains less powder and dust compared with grinding. However, the data indicate little difference in animal acceptability, daily gain or efficiency between grinding and rolling if proper processing methods are used. All kernels must be processed or feed efficiency is reduced. Unlike corn, whole grain sorghum kernels will not be broken down and digested by the animal. Table I. Comparison of coarsely rolled and finely rolled grain sorghum.
Particle size seems to be more important when grinding than rolling.
A large, fluffy particle produced by rolling may be multifractured, exposing a large surface area for digestion. Grinding probably produces fewer multifractured particles. Fine grinding may be necessary to increase the surface area in ground grains. Comparisons of finely rolled to finely ground grain sorghum are confusing. Performance of the cattle fed finely ground grain sorghum was not improved by increasing roughage quantity or quality.