This year’s weather has delayed harvest and left many wheat growers with fields of low-test weight and sprouted grain. This damage causes large discounts at the elevator because the grain does not meet standards for milling or export. Wheat that does not meet market specs still have value as livestock feed either as part of supplements for grazing cattle or in mixed diets to growing and finishing cattle.

Feeding value and nutritional considerations

Despite its poor appearance, low test weight or sprouted wheat retains much of its energy and protein content as animal feed. In fact, the nutrient composition often compares well to regular wheat:

· Crude Protein: Often 12-14%, depending on variety and growing conditions.

· Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN): Generally, 80-85%, making it a high-energy feed.

· Sprouting Effect: Enzymatic changes during sprouting may actually increase starch digestibility, though spoilage is a concern if storage is poor. 

The main challenge is balancing the ration correctly. Wheat is high in starch and low in fiber, so overfeeding can lead to digestive upsets like acidosis or founder making feeding management a key consideration. 

Tips for feeding damaged wheat safely

1. Limit Inclusion: Start with low levels and increase gradually.

Supplementing grazing cattle: limit feeding to 0.3 to 0.5% of bodyweight per feeding or as only ½ of less of a supplement fed at a higher rate. No more than 2 to 3 pounds per day for a growing calf or 4 to 6 pounds for a mature beef cow. Increase feeding frequency when feeding wheat, doubling the feeding rate and feeding every other day is not recommended.

Growing and finishing cattle on mixed rations: wheat can replace part of the corn. We recommend no more than 1/3 of the total ration or ½ of the grain in the concentrate portion of the ration. Feeding management becomes more important when feeding highly digestible grains like wheat.

2. Process with Care: Processing increases digestibility of wheat by 20 to 30%. Coarsely rolling wheat improves digestibility but avoid fine grinding. When processing is too fine the starch in wheat is digested too fast in the rumen and increases the risk of ruminal acidosis.

3. Balance the Ration: Wheat should be fed with adequate roughage (hay, silage, or straw) to maintain rumen health. Avoid low-roughage low-fiber diets.

4. Monitor Intakes Closely: Watch for signs of overeating, scours, or bloating when feeding sprouted or damaged wheat. 

Other considerations

Storage is Key: Keep wheat dry and cool. Sprouted grain with higher moisture is especially vulnerable to spoilage.

Test for Mycotoxins or Mold: Sprouted wheat may be more prone to spoilage. If stored improperly, mold and toxins can develop. Always test suspect lots before feeding. 

Feeding downgraded wheat can be a benefit for cattle producers to gain access to a high-energy feed at a discount – provided it’s done safely and with proper nutrition support. Before incorporating low-quality wheat into your feeding program, consult with a livestock nutritionist or Extension specialist to balance the ration and ensure safety with careful management.

Used with permission from Paul Beck, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Beef Cattle Nutrition Specialist.

Alicia Boor is the Agriculture and Natural Resources agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. Contact her by email at aboor@ksu.eduor call 620-793-1910.