Effects of Different Inclusion Levels of Wet Distiller Grains in Feedlot Diets Containing Wet Corn Gluten Feed

A finishing trial was conducted to determine the optimum level of inclusion of distillers grains plus solubles (WDGS; Abengoa, York, Neb.) in diets containing 30% wet corn gluten feed (WCGF, Sweet Bran®, Cargill, Blair Neb.) Six WDGS inclusion levels (0, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30%DM) were compared with a dry rolled corn (DRC)/high moisture corn (HMC)-based diet. The inclusion of 30% Sweet Bran® in the diets improved DMI, ADG and feed conversion when compared to a corn-based diet. DMI tended to respond quadratically to WDGS inclusion level, ADG responded quadratically, while F/G was not affected by WDGS level. Diets containing 30% of both WCGF and WDGS improved performance compared with cattle fed no by-products. These results indicate optimum ADG and F:G were achieved with inclusions levels of WDGS ranging from 15 to 20% in diets containing 30% WCGF.