Even where early turnout is possible, lush spring grass presents nutritional challenges. Young grass is high in sugar and rapidly degradable protein but low in structural fibre, meaning it ferments quickly in the rumen and can increase the risk of acidosis. Metabolic disorders such as hypomagnesaemia (grass staggers) are also more common.

Buffer feeding is key to maintaining rumen stability and ensuring adequate dry matter intake.

“The high rumen degradable protein in grass needs balancing with digestible undegradable protein and effective fibre,” explains Ms Keep. “When protein sources are balanced correctly, rumen health and milk production are maximised.

Supplementing grazing diets with co-products such as brewers’ grains or C*TraffordGold, a moist wheat-based distillers feed, can help provide good digestible fibre (NDF of 50-60% and 25% respectively), protein contents of about 20-24%, additional energy and slow passage through the rumen. Their high palatability also encourages voluntary feed intake, helping cows achieve the dry matter needed for milk production and fertility.

Strong spring availability allows co-products to be clamped under anaerobic conditions and stored for up to six months, giving farms a practical buffer against later-season forage pressure, while fresh product remains usable for around six weeks.

“Co-product feeds are an effective way to bridge the dry matter intake gap at turnout,” adds Ms Keep. “As a buffer diet, they provide essential energy, encourage voluntary intake, and support both production and fertility. By carefully managing spring nutrition and including the right supplements, farmers can cost effectively protect cow health, maintain fertility, and make the most of their grazing season, ensuring long-term herd performance and profitability.”