The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has said that the 14% maximum crude protein limit on feeding concentrates does not apply where cattle are not outdoors full-time at grass.

As set out in the Good Agricultural Practice for the Protection of Waters regulations, the requirement is for all farmers to limit concentrate crude protein to a maximum of 14% on an “as fed basis” from 15 April to 30 September for dairy cows and other cattle aged over two years at grass.

“The measure is in place to reduce nitrogen surpluses during the main grazing season, when good quality grass provides adequate crude protein for adult cattle,” the Department has said.

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However, there is flexibility in situations where cows are not out on grass full-time and also in situations where they are out on grass full-time, but their protein dietary needs are not met by this.

Written confirmation

In that scenario, the Department will accept written confirmation from the feed supplier, a recognised ruminant nutritionist or an accredited farm advisory service adviser, stating that a higher level of crude protein is required.

The need for animals to receive a balanced diet to maintain animal welfare is of primary importance, according to the Department.

It is a requirement to keep records of feed purchased including quantities and types of concentrate, including crude protein content for five years which must be made available for inspection if requested.