Two experiments were conducted to determine
the effects of whole soybean supplementation
on intake, digestion, and performance of beef cows of
varying age. Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 3 factorial
with 2 supplements and 3 age classes of cows (2-yrold,
3-yr-old, and mature cows). Supplements (DM basis)
included 1) 1.36 kg/d of whole raw soybeans, and 2)
1.56 kg/d of a soybean meal/hulls supplement. Supplements
were formulated to provide similar amounts of
protein and energy, but a greater fat content with the
whole soybeans. Supplements were individually fed on
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings.
During the treatment period, cows had free choice access
to bermudagrass hay [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.;
8.4% CP; 72% NDF; DM basis]. In Exp. 1, 166 springcalving
Angus and Angus × Hereford crossbred beef
cows were individually fed supplements for an average
of 80 d during mid to late gestation. During the first
50 d of supplementation, cows fed soybean meal/hulls
gained more BW (10 kg; P < 0.001) and body condition
(0.18 BCS units; P = 0.004) than cows fed whole
soybeans. However, BW change (P = 0.87) and BCS
change (P = 0.25) during the 296-d experiment were