Role of Urea in Ruminant Nutrition and Sustainability

This document is a guide that discusses the role of urea in animal nutrition, particularly for ruminants. It outlines the importance of protein in animal diets, emphasizing the need for adequate dietary crude protein and ruminally degradable protein for optimal ruminal efficiency. The text explains how non-protein nitrogen sources, specifically urea, can be used to supplement protein in ruminant diets, potentially reducing reliance on traditional protein sources like soybean meal. The guide details the advantages of urea, including its cost-effectiveness and ability to maintain animal productivity during periods of lower feed availability. It also addresses quality aspects, stating that feed-grade urea must comply with specific regulations to ensure food safety and traceability. Additionally, the document compares different forms of urea, such as prilled and granular, highlighting the benefits of prilled urea for animal feed formulations. Recommendations for working with nutritionists to determine appropriate urea dosages are also provided.