Effects of Grain Source and Concentrate Level on B-Vitamin Production and Absorption in Steers

TL;DRAbstract

Hereford-cross steers, each fitted with T-type cannulae in the duodenum and ileum, were used in two trials to determine effects of grain type and concentrate-to-forage ratio on apparent thiamin, niacin, riboflavin and biotin production and absorption. Steers were fed at 2-h intervals and Cr-EDTA and acid insoluble ash were used as markers. Diets were fed as complete pelleted mixtures. Seven steers were used in trial 1 to compare diets containing 15% alfalfa and 85% of either corn, wheat, oat, barley or sorghum. All diets, except the sorghum diet, resulted in a net loss of thiamin in the rumen of steers. Apparent ruminal N and organic matter digestibilities of the sorghum diet were less (P<.05) than those of other diets. Apparent intestinal absorption of thiamin averaged 62.5%. Apparent niacin production in the rumen was substantial (37 to 359% greater than amounts fed) in all steers, as was absorption from the small intestine, which averaged 66.7%. More riboflavin flowed from the rumen

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