Influence of Corn Hybrid, Kernel Traits, and Dry Rolling or Steam Flaking on Digestibility

Seventy-two commercially available corn hybrids were used to quantify the existing range in kernel characteristics shown to correlate with improved feeding value to cattle. Twelve hybrids were steam flaked at two different bulk densities. Hybrids were tested for kernel size, hardness, in situ digestibility, and starch use. For dry rolled corn, a 27% difference in dry matter disappearance was found across hybrids. For flaking, a 6% to 29% improvement over dry rolled corn was observed. An 8% to 36% advantage for flaking in starch digestibility was also found. The results of this trial suggest there can be an interaction between hybrid value and whether fed as dry-rolled or steam-flaked corn