Review of fodder quality and quantity in the livestock export trade

Summary

Current requirements for feeding livestock in preparation for and during export by ship are defined inthe Australian Standards for the Export of Livestock (2008). However, fodder related components ofthese standards have not been updated for over 10 years. Key objectives of this project were toupdate these components by reviewing current industry practices and the most up to date publishednutrient requirements for livestock. The industry was generally operating efficiently, although severalrecommendations were made for modifications to guidelines for shipping pellet formulation, feedprovisioning, the supply of additional roughage for cattle on long haul voyages, the control ofammonia levels from pens, and the minimisation of risks from acidosis and heat stress.