Lõikesööt

Lõikesööt, often translated as "cut feed" or "chopped feed" in English, refers to fodder that has been mechanically cut into smaller pieces before being fed to livestock. This process is primarily applied to forage crops like hay, silage, and fresh grass.

The main purpose of cutting feed is to improve its digestibility and palatability for animals. Shorter pieces are easier for ruminants to chew and process in their digestive systems. This can lead to better nutrient absorption and, consequently, improved animal growth and production. Additionally, cut feed can be more uniformly mixed with other ingredients in a total mixed ration (TMR), ensuring that each bite contains the desired nutritional balance.

The degree of cutting can vary. Coarsely chopped feed retains some structural integrity, which is important for maintaining healthy rumen function. Finely chopped feed, on the other hand, can be easier to handle and can be beneficial for certain animal species or production stages. The equipment used for cutting feed includes forage harvesters, mowers with conditioners, and specialized choppers.

Factors influencing the decision to use lõikesööt include the type of livestock, their age and production stage, the available forage quality, and the desired feeding system. While it offers several advantages, the process requires additional machinery and labor, which can increase costs.