Summary
This study investigates the use of hempseed by-products—a co-product of hemp oil extraction—as a supplementary feedstuff for cull dairy cows, examining impacts on both animal productivity and meat quality outcomes. The research contributes to understanding circular economy opportunities within intensive dairy systems by valorising agricultural co-products. The findings suggest potential for hempseed by-products to support sustainable livestock nutrition whilst maintaining or potentially enhancing meat quality.
UK applicability
The findings may be relevant to UK dairy farmers seeking alternative protein and energy sources for cull cow finishing, particularly as UK cultivation of industrial hemp increases. However, applicability depends on feed cost-effectiveness and availability of hempseed by-products within UK supply chains.
Key measures
Animal performance metrics (weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion efficiency); carcase traits; meat quality parameters (potentially including colour, tenderness, fatty acid composition, protein content)
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated the effects of dietary inclusion of hempseed by-products on productive performance, carcase characteristics, and meat quality traits in Italian Simmental cull dairy cows. Measurements likely included growth rates, feed conversion, meat composition, and sensory or nutritional quality attributes.
Topic tags
Dig deeper with Pulse AI.
Pulse AI has read the whole catalogue. Ask about this record, its theme, or how the findings apply to UK farming and policy — every answer cites the underlying studies.