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Sampling Silo - For a perfect basic feed analysis (WITHOUT tool)
The economic efficiency of milk production depends on the quality of the basic feed. In order to calculate performance- and demand-oriented rations, it is important to determine the quality of the basic feed in a timely manner. By taking regular feed samples, targeted improvement measures can be implemented. A basic feed analysis provides information in this regard, although the analysis is only as good as the sampling process.
Thorough sampling is always one of the most important prerequisites for the meaningfulness of a basic feed analysis. The fundamental principle for any sampling is that the taken sample is representative of the entire batch of interest. Proper sampling is the basis for the usability of the analysis results. Errors that can occur during the sampling process cannot be corrected during subsequent analysis, so it is crucial to handle the sampling process with great care. The samples should be taken in a way that avoids contamination, and the equipment and containers used should be clean and dry.
The sampling of basic feed should enable the most accurate characterization of each silo or batch of silage. Silages must be fully fermented at the time of sampling, as otherwise, future conservation losses will not be captured. Depending on the plant species and fermentation conditions, this occurs at the earliest 4-6 weeks after ensiling.
Required items:
- 10-liter bucket
- Gloves
- Sano sampling kit
- Pen
Procedure for sampling silo without a tool:
- Sample from the first clean face of the silo
- Sample the face at a minimum of 5 spots (using a W or Z pattern)
- Sample the face immediately after removing the silage (for feeding purposes)
- If not possible at the moment, remove at least 20 cm of material at the sampling spot
- Collect 3-5 liters of sample material in a 10-liter bucket
- Thoroughly mix the sample material by hand
- Transfer 1.5-2.5 liters of sample material into the sample bag (maximum 1,000 g)
- Press out the air from the sample bag as much as possible and seal it carefully (if possible, use a vacuum device and vacuum bag)
- Fill out the analysis form completely