Protein feeds commonly used in dairy cow rations in Western Canada include soybean meal, canola meal, and distiller dried grains. Peas are locally grown and contain relatively high levels of protein (24%) and starch (48%), but information on the digestion and utilization of peas by lactating dairy cows are limited. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the effects of including peas as a replacement for soybean meal in the diet of dairy cows on ruminal digestion and metabolites and nutrient flow to the intestine. This study was also designed to allow identification of the optimal dietary inclusion level of peas.
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