As Australian beef producers continue to search for ways to improve feedlot performance, average daily gain, and animal health without increasing feed costs, on-farm trials remain one of the most reliable decision-making tools.

A recent client-led feedlot trial conducted by a leading Western Australian beef producer evaluated the real-world impact of Terragen’s Probiotic for Ruminants when included in a standard feedlot ration.

Unlike controlled research studies, this trial was designed to reflect commercial feedlot conditions, providing practical insights for producers considering rumen probiotics to improve cattle performance, health, and efficiency.

Trial Objective: Measuring Feedlot Performance and Animal Health

The objective of the WA feedlot trial was to assess the impact of Probiotic for Ruminants on key commercial performance indicators, including:

  • Average daily weight gain (ADG / OADG)
  • Animal health and sick treatment rates
  • Drafting timelines and days on feed
  • Final liveweight outcomes

Two feedlot pens were monitored side-by-side, with one pen receiving Terragen’s probiotic supplement and the other continuing on a standard feedlot feeding program without probiotics.

Key Feedlot Trial Results

Improved Average Daily Gain

Cattle receiving Terragen’s Probiotic for Ruminants achieved an overall average daily gain (OADG) of 2.368 kg/day, compared to 2.017 kg/day in the non-supplemented pen — a 17.4% improvement, equating to an additional 351 grams per head per day.

Reduced Sick Treatments

The probiotic group recorded 5 sick treatments, compared to 13 treatments in the control pen, indicating improved animal health and resilience during the feeding period.

Earlier Drafting

Cattle supplemented with the probiotic were drafted at 26 days, compared to 28–33 days for cattle not receiving the probiotic.

Higher Final Liveweights

Maximum liveweights reached 558 kg in the probiotic group, compared to 522 kg in the control group.

Together, these results translated into greater feedlot efficiency, reduced labour and health management requirements, and improved production outcomes.

What These Results Mean for Commercial Feedlots

Beyond the trial data, the results highlight several practical benefits for beef feedlot operations:

  • Faster and more consistent weight gain supporting earlier turn-off
  • Fewer health interventions reducing veterinary and labour costs
  • Improved animal resilience contributing to smoother feedlot management

As the producer involved in the trial noted:

“We were impressed by the difference. The probiotic group not only gained weight faster but stayed healthier, which meant less time and cost managing sick animals. Drafting earlier was a bonus — it’s clear this product adds value.”

To learn more about Terragen Probiotic For Ruminants or where to purchase, contact one of our team here.