Use of feed enzymes in feedlot finishing diets

An enzyme mixture with predominantly xylanase and cellulase activities was added to a high concentrate diet (92.2%, dry matter basis) and fed to growing heifers (370 kg) reared in a commercial feedlot. Enzyme supplementation had no effect on dry matter intake but increased (P < 0.01) average daily gain by 9% (1.40 to 1.53 kg d−1) and numerically improved feed-to-gain ratio by 10% (7.72 to 6.95 kg dry matter kg−1 gain). Feed enzyme technology can improve efficiency of commercial feedlot cattle production. Key words: Beef cattle, feedlot cattle, enzymes, barley