Global and domestic consumer trends are shifting towards anti-biotic, GMO and hormone growth promotant-free meat.
This results in the need for natural supplements that will deliver efficient performance.
Meat and Livestock Australia's Consumer Report 2017 stated that 60 percent of consumers claim they want to avoid antibiotics/hormones.
End users such as restaurants aim to deliver consistency to consumers, a known challenge for the red meat industry.
A balanced diet will improve meat quality factors, such as minimising trimming loss and maximising marbling.
Frankling Custom Feeds is one of the few stockfeed companies to provide antibiotic free pellets suitable for finishing programs, according to a company spokesman.
"These pelletised products are achieving outstanding results and are challenging the traditional methods such as grain mixes with antibiotics to support unnatural diets," the spokesman said.
Beef producer, Dean Mitchell began custom feeding 250 heifers.
The owners required an antibiotic free diet, so Mr Mitchell needed to find an alternative that would deliver the nutrients required to support the expected growth rates, but still provide protection against health issues.
He utilised the nutrition service offered by Frankling Custom Feeds to develop a custom pellet to meet these requirements.
The nutrient balance of the custom pellet has been adjusted over the 90 day feeding program based on Mr Mitchell's observations.
After breeding cattle for many years, he is pleased to have the opportunity to finish stock as well, stating that diversity is the key to his business.
"The outcome has been very successful with the results exceeding expectations for the heifers," the spokesman said.
"Little to no health issues were experienced compared to traditional straight grain feeding systems that often lead to acidosis, which typically results in decreased growth rates.
"Frankling Custom Feeds has the experience and knowledge to apply our nutritional resources to develop a feeding program to meet a customer's individual requirements.
"Farmers find this service a useful tool in helping them to make confident decisions about the profitability of their feeding program.
"Our nutrition team is experienced in the dairy, beef and sheep industries and understands how to formulate a diet that finds the delicate balance between nutrition, profitability and practical management.
"We also provide a unique online business consulting service."
- Visit: www.frankling.com.au
