South Korean Hanwoo farmers receive training on self-produced feed to cut costs

The National Hanwoo Association, in collaboration with the National Institute of Animal Science, conducted a technical training program on "Self-Produced TMR Manufacturing and Utilization" from August 13-14 at Daedeok University in Daejeon. Approximately 50 Hanwoo cattle farmers participated in the event, which was supported by the Hanwoo Self-Sufficiency Fund.

The primary objective of the training was to lower feed costs for farmers and empower them with the skills to design and utilize TMR tailored to their specific farming conditions and available raw materials. The program integrated expert theoretical education with practical, hands-on sessions using computer-based formulation programs, enhancing its real-world applicability.

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Hanwoo farmers' production costs need to be reduced and profitability increased through TMR education, which will lead to actual production cost reduction and improved farm profits.

Participants learned practical know-how from experienced Hanwoo farmers who already utilize self-produced TMR. These sessions covered everything from the initial adoption of TMR to raw material selection, proper mixing techniques, and feeding management strategies tailored to different growth stages of the cattle. Emphasis was placed on optimizing nutritional value and moisture content of raw materials for cost-effective feed formulation, leading to improved market performance.

In addition to TMR techniques, the training included crucial safety management education, covering electrical hazards like short circuits and overloads, and practical tips for barn safety. Min Kyung-chun, president of the National Hanwoo Association, stressed the importance of stage-specific management for Hanwoo cattle, noting that feeding and management during the growing phase significantly impact later performance and quality. He expressed hope that the TMR training would lead to tangible cost reductions and increased profitability for farmers, suggesting regional joint purchasing and expert utilization to lower costs.

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It is necessary to lower the cost by jointly purchasing raw materials in the region and utilizing experts, rather than each individual farm procuring raw materials separately.