Using NIR spectroscopy, analyses of feed can now be done directly on farm and not just in the laboratory. For an advisor, it is important to be able to quickly get an idea of the feed/grazing quality to help and improve the feeding of a producer.
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Description
With the help of NIR spectroscopy, analyses of feed can now be done directly on the farm and not just in the laboratory. The equipment can handle slightly different types of material depending on the brand. Some can handle several pure feeds such as flour, grain, roughage and whole crop silage (maize, cereals) but others claim to be able to analyse ready mixes and pelleted feed. Scanning a crop provides information on its nutritional value. The analysis provides answers to the crop's content of DM, fibre, protein, ash, starch, etc.
For an advisor, it is important to be able to quickly get an idea of the quality of the feed/pasture to help and improve the feeding of a producer. A portable NIR machine together with the experience of an advisor and farmer would provide a good decision basis for adjustments of feed rates etc.
