Feed additives have long been part of livestock production, but the way they are being evaluated is changing. As margins tighten and performance pressures increase, producers are taking a closer look at how additives fit into overall herd management, particularly during times of stress and transition.
Rather than being viewed as a cure-all, feed additives are increasingly considered one of several tools producers can use to support animal health and efficiency. That mindset shift is important, according to N T Cosby, ruminant product manager for Fortiva, who says additives work best when they are selected intentionally and used to support broader management decisions.
Cosby explains that many of the challenges producers are trying to manage today stem from stress within the herd. Those stressors can come from a variety of sources, including weather conditions, social pressures, and diet changes as new forages are introduced. While cattle are resilient, problems often arise when multiple stressors begin stacking up at the same time.
When stress begins to impact performance, producers naturally want to know what steps they can take to respond. Cosby says that starts with understanding how feed additives are actually used in an operation and what role they are intended to play. Rather than a blanket approach, additives should be incorporated as part of a targeted strategy.
That strategy, he says, is best developed in collaboration with a nutritionist. By clearly defining the challenge, setting expectations, and measuring results, producers can better determine whether a product is delivering value. That approach becomes especially important as dairy and beef margins tighten and every management decision is scrutinized more closely.
Cosby adds that focusing on measurable outcomes helps ensure feed additives are supporting both animal resilience and the bottom line. Producers interested in learning more about Fortiva additives and their approach to improving cattle performance can find additional information online at https://fortivaimpact.com.
