Dairy and cattle producers can expect to see an increase in whole cottonseed supply this year. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s December cotton and wool outlet report, production is estimated at 18.3 million bales, a 25% increase from the 2020 crop year. Whole cottonseed supply is estimated to be about 1 million tons more than last year.
Larry Johnson, gin consultant and owner of Tactical Risk Advisors explains that the increase in whole cottonseed availability is mainly coming from Texas. “They had a favorable growing season compared to last year, which has increased production,” he says. “When compared to the previous year, Mid-South and Southeast production remained steady.”
A senior economist for Cotton Incorporated, Jon Devine, says that dry conditions in West Texas last year caused widespread abandonment. “For this year’s crop, there was more rain, and the improvement in moisture provided a boost to national production. It was also a quieter year for hurricanes, which also helps bring in more fiber and more cottonseed,” he remarks. “This supply increase is good news for dairy and beef producers looking to incorporate whole cottonseed in their feeding program.”
Cory Colburn, an independent dairy nutritionist, notes that whole cottonseed is a single feed ingredient with the value benefit of three key nutrients, providing a high level of energy, protein for muscle growth and performance, and fiber for effective rumen function and digestive health.
Cottonseed prices have increased rapidly, adding to the rising feed bill on dairies. Johnson notes that in past years, quality harvests like this have helped stabilize the price of whole cottonseed, making it more accessible to producers.
Both producers and nutritionists will be keeping an eye on the market, as harvest wraps up. “With inflated feed prices and supply constraints, cottonseed is a strong feed ingredient, and I encourage producers to work with their herd’s nutritionist to evaluate their feeding program,” Colburn adds.
Midwest regional business manager for Standard Dairy Consultants, Brian Vaassen, says that cottonseed is a good ingredient and provides an excellent blend of fiber and fat. “Most look at it as an energy source. With most energy ingredients being expensive, one would need to run its value against other energy sources,” he says. “Then also consider opportunities that exist for the producer and their forage/feed inventories. I certainly would feed cottonseed if it fits into all the farm is doing.”
