"DeStress is an extensively researched tool. The bottom line is that it gives producers and industry a new way to support animal welfare while improving economics at the same time. Nutritional therapy is something the beef industry can point to not only as a best practice but also as an emerging area of innovation for sustainable production."
Nutrition components custom tailored in the bio-based formulations include energy sources, electrolytes and bypass amino acids. Formulations are designed to support, maintain and replenish critical nutritional needs in the face of stress, while also triggering additional positive and “calming” physiological responses. This guards against costly and often hidden "stress loss" and supports healthy, well-cared-for, high-performing beef cattle.
Studies with beef cattle show substantial benefits in live weight retention, carcass weight retention, improved grade index and reduced animal aggression using the nutritional supplement. Also, reductions in dark cutters and other stress-related product deficiencies has been consistently observed.
"It can really provide that exta 'X factor' to get the best results possible, for the animals as well as for the producer, packer and consumer.”
More trial data and commercial results are emerging regularly with expanded use and advancement of the product, Schaefer says. "Across the board, we are seeing very positive results. We’re at the forefront of this opportunity and we're excited to see it continue to expand."
Checklist of key features
Slaughter Cattle: See an improvement in grade quality and a reduction in carcass loss.
Show Cattle (and Bulls): New surroundings following transport can stress show cattle. Nutritional therapy helps to stabilize the animal’s physiology
Grass Cattle: DeStress products can be used with pasture raised cattle to reduce shrink
Weaned Calves: Weaning and the subsequent transport, co-mingling and handling can be a major stressor for young calves. DeStress nutritional therapy products can help maintain production, growth and immune function.
Latest knowledge
- Packer trials evaluating post transport treatment show major improvement in quality grade with DeStress nutritional therapy
- Trials evaluating results of pre-transport treatment show strong boost in carcass yield
