Competition of urea with oilseed proteins

Competition of urea with oilseed proteins in ruminant feeding depends primarily on economic relationships between these ingredients, cost of energy sources and proper feed formulation. A general summary of the more important factors to consider in replacing protein with nonprotein nitrogen in ruminant feeds is presented. Estimated urea utilization in the U.S. grew at a 15.5% compound annual rate from 1962 to 1966. From 1966–1969, usage increased at a 5% compound annual rate. Approximately 650,000 tons of urea were used by the U.S. Feed industry in 1969. Urea usage is expected to continue to grow in the United States. The high cost of energy sources in Western Europe will tend to slow its use by the feed industry of that area. In general, competition of urea with oilseed proteins will be greatest with heavy grain feeding of cattle, low cost grains and high priced oilseed meals.