Säilöheinässä

Säilöheinässä refers to haylage, a type of fermented forage used primarily as animal feed. It is produced by harvesting grass or other forage crops at a slightly higher moisture content than dry hay, typically between 40% and 60%. The higher moisture allows for lactic acid fermentation to occur, which preserves the forage and prevents spoilage. This fermentation process is similar to that of silage but with a drier product.

The key to successful säilöheinässä production is rapid wilting and airtight storage. The forage is usually wilted in the field to the desired moisture level before being chopped and packed tightly into impermeable bags or bales. The exclusion of oxygen is crucial to encourage the desired lactic acid bacteria to dominate and to inhibit the growth of undesirable molds and yeasts. If exposed to air, the säilöheinässä can spoil, leading to nutrient loss and potential health risks for animals.

Säilöheinässä offers several advantages. The fermentation process locks in nutrients and maintains a higher nutritional value compared to dry hay, especially for vitamins and protein. It is also often more palatable to livestock, leading to increased feed intake. However, it requires careful management during harvesting and storage to prevent spoilage. Its higher moisture content also means that more material needs to be transported and stored compared to dry hay for the same amount of dry matter. Säilöheinässä is commonly fed to cattle, sheep, and horses.