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Cows are the most amazing creatures in the world, their 4 stomachs all them to convert feed by products that can’t be digested by humans, or products we throw away into cheese and ice cream. What a Modern Dairy Cow Eats. A Thread.
Alfalfa Hay 3 pounds per day. This Hay is rich in protein and helps create a mat inside the cows stomach that their stomach bugs feast on. Hay, contains cellulose and is indigestible to humans. 
Corn/ Wheat distillers. 8 pounds. This is a by product of the ethanol and beer industry. After it has been utilized, it is dried and sold to dairies. High in energy it is a by product and isn’t utilized by humans.
Canola/ Cotton Seed. 5 pounds. Canola oil is a very common cooking oil. After being refined it is sent off too...you guessed it. Dairy Farms. This is a great protein source.
Cotton Seed. Once the tufts of cotton have been pulled off, the cotton seed is a rich source of energy and protein.
Rolled Corn. 8 pounds. Rolled Corn is the only ingredient in the diet that could be used by humans. Rolled Corn is the corn kernel, heated and rolled for maximum digestibility.
Potatoes. 15 pounds. Next time you are bypassing the ugly potato in the grocery store, remember who cleans up after your vanity. That’s right Cows.
Grass Silage. 15 pounds. Local Fescue and Orchard grasses are grown to help with soil health and prevent erosion. This is chopped and ensiled to be fed year round. Again, not good on your dinner plate.
Corn Silage. 30 pounds. This is the entire corn stalk chopped up. Not just the ear that we eat. It is ensiled for year round consumption and provides energy and fiber.
Trace Minerals. 1 pound. All of the Silages and Hays are tested to determine adequate levels of vitamins and minerals. Any shortcomings are supplemented here. Calcium, Mag. Sel. Etc.
Molasses. 2 pounds. This is a by product of the sugar industry. It’s a source of energy and helps all the ingredients mix and stick in the mixer box.
Cows truly are amazing creatures. They take our cast offs and turn them into products we can digest. Never before has the dairy industry been so efficient at making products with the least about of carbon foot print. So drink, scoop and slice, the girls on the farm thank you.
