It is essential to ensure that the crude fiber in the straw is properly broken down through the action of ammonia over a specific period. The fermentation time for ammoniated straw should be adjusted based on seasonal temperature conditions. Typically, at around 20°C, the straw should be left under ammonia for about 25 days. In winter, it is recommended to extend the storage period to more than 40 days to allow sufficient breakdown.
To assess the quality of ammoniated straw, sensory evaluation is the primary method. High-quality ammoniated straw appears brownish, has a distinct ammonia odor, and feels soft to the touch. If the straw is not fully processed, it may look similar to regular straw, with little or no smell and no significant texture change. Over-fermented straw tends to darken and lose its ammonia scent. If the plastic covering leaks, the straw may become moldy, turning white, gray, or even black, and develop a sticky, clumped texture with a foul odor. Such straw should never be used as animal feed.
When feeding ammoniated straw, there is no need to add water, and the feeding method is similar to that of regular straw. Animals are usually allowed to eat freely. Due to its strong palatability, most cattle readily consume it and can completely replace non-ammoniated straw. However, some animals may be sensitive to ammonia, so it's advisable to mix 1/3 to 1/2 of unammoniated straw initially. The amount of ammoniated straw should not exceed 40% to 60% of the total forage to avoid overloading the digestive system.
Before feeding, it’s important to release any remaining ammonia gas and remove the straw from the storage pool. Allow it to cool by airing it out for 10–12 hours on sunny days, and for over 24 hours on cloudy or rainy days. After treatment, the straw should have a mild ammonia smell but should not irritate the eyes or nose. Avoid drying it too much, as this could reduce its nutritional value. After each use, the storage tank should be sealed tightly. Ammoniated straw can be stored for long periods, but regular inspections are necessary to check for rodent damage, trampling, or damage to the plastic cover. Any holes should be promptly sealed with tape.
Combining ammoniated straw with other feeds can enhance its energy and non-protein nitrogen content. When feeding, it’s important to balance it with non-degradable protein sources like soybean meal, cottonseed cake, or distiller’s grains. Also, include vitamin and mineral supplements to support the animal’s metabolic balance and overall health.
Ammoniated straw is suitable only for ruminants such as cattle and sheep, as it improves the utilization of straw. It is less effective for pigs and should be used cautiously for non-weaned calves and lambs, as their rumen microbial systems are not yet fully developed.
Monitor animals closely during feeding. If signs of ammonia poisoning appear—such as reduced or stopped rumination, excessive salivation, restlessness, trembling, or unstable gait—stop feeding immediately and move the animal to a well-ventilated shaded area. Administer 1 kg of vinegar, 0.5 kg of sugar, and 3–5 kg of water orally. These measures usually help alleviate symptoms quickly.
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