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Research & Reviews : Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology Review Article

Silage Beyond Green Fodder: Nutritional, Health, Economic and Environmental Implications for Sustainable Livestock Production

  1. Md. Emran Hossain Department of Animal Science and Nutrition, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University

Abstract

Silage is a pivotal component in modern livestock feeding systems, offering far more than just an alternative to green fodder. This study explores the multifaceted roles of silage in enhancing livestock nutrition, health, and overall farm sustainability. The preservation of crops through fermentation allows for year-round availability of high-quality feed, ensuring consistent nutritional intake, particularly during periods of forage scarcity. Beyond its basic function as a feedstuff, silage improves the digestibility of fiber, enhances feed conversion efficiency, and supports overall animal performance by providing a stable source of energy and protein. The fermentation process also yields beneficial byproducts such as organic acids that contribute to rumen health, improving microbial populations and optimizing nutrient absorption. From an economic perspective, silage reduces the reliance on expensive purchased concentrates, lowers feed costs, and maximizes the use of surplus crops, offering financial stability for farmers. Environmentally, silage production minimizes crop residue waste, reduces the need for field burning, and contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the transportation of fresh feed. The use of silage also offers resilience in the face of climate change by enabling livestock systems to adapt to fluctuating feed availability. Overall, this study underscores the diverse and critical role silage plays in promoting sustainable livestock production through enhanced feed efficiency, animal health, and environmental stewardship

Keywords

References (63)

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