Pulse crops are usually not the first choice for beef cattle rations—but they are an option.

The following article was written by Jennifer Heyden, livestock and feed extension specialist with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture office in North Battleford.

Are you feeding poor quality forages this winter? Is your greenfeed low in protein? Peas and lentils are pulse grains that are palatable as a cattle feed and can be incorporated into diets as a source of energy and protein. Rations incorporating peas may result in increased dry matter intake by beef cattle.

Pulse grains like peas and lentils contain nearly twice the level of crude protein compared to cereal grains, often averaging around 24% crude protein. Therefore, cattle diets are primarily formulated to include pulse grains as a protein supplement in the concentrate mix. Formulations often include peas or lentils at 20% to 30% of a mature beef cow ration to supply a healthy level of protein and energy.

Peas and lentils can also provide an excellent source of protein and energy to backgrounding and replacement calves. Calves have higher protein requirements than do mature animals and will benefit from the protein supplied by pulse grains. The amount of pea or lentil included in a backgrounding or replacement ration will depend on the protein content in the hay and what type of other concentrate, if any, is being fed. Much like a mature cow ration, pulse grains are typically included in a backgrounding or replacement ration at 20% to 30% of the diet.

Processing of pulse grains prior to feeding is not considered beneficial from a performance perspective. Field trials in North Dakota examined the processing effect of pulse grains for beef cattle and showed negligible if any beneficial performance effects. However, processing does appear to allow for better mixing and less separation when mixed with other feeds.

If you are feeding poor quality forages or your greenfeed or hay are low in protein this winter, you might want to consider supplementing your winter rations with peas or lentils to boost protein and energy content of the diet.
For more information on this or other livestock and feed related topics, contact your nearest Regional Office or call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.