Department of Agriculture issues reminder of crude protein limit for cattle

The department has issued a reminder about the flexibility of the concentrate 14% crude protein limit.

Farmers, advisers and feed mills are being reminded that with the dry weather and impact on grass growth, there is flexibility regarding the 14% crude protein limit in concentrates.

In response to recent weather and its impacts on grass growth in many parts of the country, the Department of Agriculture has issued a reminder of the flexibility that exists regarding the concentrate 14% crude protein limit, which applies from April 15 to September 30 as set out in the ‘Good Agricultural Practice for the Protection of Waters Regulations’ (SI No 588/2025, as amended).

The measure is in place to reduce nitrogen surpluses during the main grazing season when good-quality grass provides adequate crude protein for adult cattle.

The requirement to limit concentrate crude protein to a maximum of 14% on an “as-fed basis” from April 15 to 30 September applies to all farmers feeding concentrates to dairy cows and other cattle aged over two years, at grass.

The department has issued a reminder the requirement does not apply where cattle are not outdoors full-time at grass.

Even in situations where cattle are at grass full-time, the department will allow for situations where a higher level of crude protein is required in concentrates to maintain animal welfare or to meet the animal’s dietary needs.

In that scenario, the department continues to accept written confirmation from the feed supplier, a recognised ruminant nutritionist or an accredited farm advisory service adviser stating a higher level of crude protein is required.

From an implementation perspective, compliance is assessed taking into account the date the concentrate feed was purchased. Records of purchased feed should also include the quantities and types of concentrate feed, including crude protein content fed to livestock on the holding. Under SI No 588/2025, as amended, these records should be maintained for five years and made available for inspection if requested.