Effect of feeding ergot alkaloids on ruminal metabolism, growth performance, health and welfare of beef cattle: How much is too much?

Contamination of cereal grains with the ergot fungus has been increasing in western Canada for the past 10 years and once ergot infests crop land, it is difficult to eradicate. In a recent approved Beef cattle Research Council (BCRC) grant we are looking at better defining maximum limits for cereal ergot alkaloids in the diets of feedlot cattle from a production, health, and welfare perspective. We are trying to understand how ergot alkaloids are metabolized, and how the alkaloids and its metabolites affect ruminal fermentation. We aim to develop strategies to make better and safer use of ergot contaminated grains. Understanding how to reduce the risk that ergot-contaminated feed poses to cattle is critical to maintain animal health and welfare and avoid feed waste.