More research in this area is warranted, but it may be that corn processing recommendations will vary substantially for grain fed in a TMR versus grain fed separately in a grain mix. To allow for earlier harvest and reduced field losses, corn is sometimes harvested at higher moisture levels and ensiled. High-moisture shelled corn contains between 22 and 26 percent moisture, depending on storage structure. Generally, the corn will be rolled or coarsely ground prior to ensiling. Sorghum grain is high in energy and starch content and often is less expensive than corn.
Sorghum is adapted to hot, arid regions of the world.
Steam flaking sorghum consistently improves digestibility of starch but also increases the risk of acidosis, off-feed problems and reduced milk fat test. Dry rolled sorghum is less digestible than steam flaked sorghum. When compared with dry rolling, steam flaking sorghum grain significantly increases starch digestion in the rumen and milk protein percentage. Research in Nebraska indicated that sorghum grain, when finely ground, supports milk yield and composition, dry matter intake and bodyweight similar to rolled corn for midlactation cows. Whether grain was fed separately from forage or as a part of a TMR had no effect on performance.