The most significant changes are the introduction of metabolizable energy (ME) and small intestine digestible protein (sidP) as new key performance indicators for the energy and protein supply of dairy cows. Furthermore, the methodology for determining nutrient requirements and feed value has been substantially revised. This has significant implications for feeding practices and upstream and downstream sectors in Austria. The new GfE recommendations are to be implemented in Austria over the next few years.
This new DAFNE project, "UFE-Kuh_GfE2023," aims to coordinate the implementation of the new GfE recommendations in Austria and to establish Austria-specific foundations for ration calculations using the new methodology. A working group will be established to coordinate implementation. This group will include experts from science, consulting, the feed industry, legislation, and continuing education to ensure the fastest and most comprehensive implementation of the new GfE recommendations. Furthermore, informational materials will be developed and training events will be offered to guarantee a smooth transition into agricultural practice.
In the second part of this project, the protein fractions, amino acid profile, and UDP digestibility of forage samples from scientific trials conducted by the HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein will be analyzed. Additionally, the protein degradability of feedstuffs in the rumen will be determined using data from previous trials. Knowledge of protein degradability (which can be derived from the protein fractions) and the amino acid profile is essential for accurate ration calculation according to the new GfE recommendations. However, there is currently very little data available on these feed value parameters for typical Austrian forages. Therefore, the HBLFA Raumberg-Gumpenstein and the Institute of Animal Nutrition, Animal Foods, and Nutritional Physiology at BOKU Vienna will conduct comprehensive analyses of the aforementioned feed value parameters in forage samples over the next few years. The results of this project will be used to expand the feed value tables for forage from the Alpine region to include these new feed value parameters.
