A review of the effect of nutrient and energy restriction during late gestation on beef cattle offspring growth and development

Abstract

Changes in the environment, including nutritional changes, can influence fetal and postnatal development of the offspring, which can result in differences in growth, metabolism, reproduction, and health later in life. In beef cattle research on energy and protein restriction during late gestation appears to be contradictory. Therefore, in this review, we will examine the nutrient requirements recommended for this period. We are summarizing contradictory data on effects on offspring performance with possible explanations of the reason for why the data seems contradictory. We will finish by discussing some areas that we consider important for further research to increase the knowledge on how maternal nutrition influences offspring development. In particular, suggestions are provided on the need for more accurately measuring nutrient and energy supply and use and the impact on subsequent epigenetic effects. This will improve understanding of nutritional effects during gestation on offspring performance.

Intramuscular fat formation in fetuses and the effect of increased protein intake during pregnancy in Hanwoo cattle

“…In addition, there are reports that birth BW and offspring growth are improved by supplementation with protein before delivery [ 1 , 51 ]. On the other hand, there is evidence that protein restriction during pregnancy negatively affects muscle development of offspring [ 58 - 60 ]. In other words, the level of protein intake during pregnancy is considered an important factor in growth of offspring.…”

NCCC308: Nutrition and Management of Feedlot Cattle to Optimize Performance, Carcass Value, and Environmental Compatibility – Feature Collection - Nutrition and Management of Finishing Cattle

“…To enhance the production efficiency and quality of feedlot cattle through management strategies and technologies ( Cooke et al, 2023 ; Jaborek et al, 2023a , b , and c ; Nickles et al, 2023 ; Podversich et al, 2023 ; Waldon et al, 2023 ).…”