Protein: The key to keeping livestock thriving this winter
About this episode
Dr Josef De Villiers Van Wyngaard discusses the importance of protein supplementation for livestock during winter to prevent health issues and economic losses for farmers.
The dropping temperatures of winter bring a hidden crisis for livestock farmers: dormant pastures stripped of their essential nutritional value. Dr Josef De Villiers Van Wyngaard, manager at Voermol Feeds, joins the podcast to unpack the critical role of protein supplementation in preventing livestock condition loss during tough winter grazing periods. In this episode, he explains why protein becomes the first "limiting factor" for herds once the first frost hits, forcing plants to pull vital nutrients back into their roots for survival. He highlights the direct, damaging impact a protein deficiency can have on a farm's bottom line, leading to rapid weight loss, poor growth performance, and delayed reproduction cycles that extend inter-calf periods. To help farmers combat these seasonal challenges, Dr Van Wyngaard shares Voermol’s tailored strategies for stabilising herds. He details the practical application of Voermol ready-mix options. Whether you manage a single herd or a combination of cattle and sheep, this episode provides the exact roadmap needed to close the winter gap and sustain animal health until spring.
People in this episode
Guest: Dr Josef De Villiers Van Wyngaard
Topics covered
- livestock health
- protein supplementation
- winter grazing
- nutritional value
- farming strategies
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Voermol Feeds
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