High-shear dry extruded corn improves feed efficiency in young feedlot cattle by approximately 7% compared to rolled corn and performs as well as steam flaked corn, according to a 2026 study of 226 steers. The extruded corn also significantly improved how much starch the cattle’s bodies could digest and use, making it a practical alternative processing method for feedlot operators.
Researchers tested three different ways of preparing corn for young cattle entering feedlots to see which method helped them grow best. According to Gram Research analysis, they found that a special high-pressure processing method called extrusion worked as well as steam flaking, a traditional method, at helping cattle digest corn and convert feed into body weight more efficiently. The study involved 226 young steers over 38 days and showed that the extruded corn improved how much the cattle’s bodies could use the starch in corn, which is the energy-rich part of the grain.
Key Statistics
A 2026 randomized controlled trial of 226 Angus crossbred steers found that high-shear dry extruded corn improved feed efficiency by 7% compared to dry rolled corn in 38-day receiving diets.
According to research reviewed by Gram, extruded and steam flaked corn both increased estimated total tract starch digestibility compared to rolled corn in feedlot steers, with the improvement being statistically significant (P = 0.0002).
In a 226-steer study published in 2026, high-shear dry extruded corn performed comparably to steam flaked corn for improving feed efficiency and starch digestion in young feedlot cattle.
A 38-day feedlot study of 226 steers showed that cattle fed high-shear dry extruded corn achieved similar growth performance to those fed steam flaked corn, suggesting extrusion is a viable alternative processing method.
The Quick Take
- What they studied: Whether a new way of processing corn (using high-pressure extrusion) helps young feedlot cattle grow better and digest their food more efficiently compared to two traditional methods.
- Who participated: 226 young Angus crossbred steers (cattle that weigh about 230 kg or 500 pounds at the start) from a single ranch in South Dakota, divided into groups of 6-7 animals each.
- Key finding: Extruded corn improved feed efficiency by about 7% compared to rolled corn, matching the results of steam flaked corn. The cattle’s bodies digested the starch in extruded corn significantly better than rolled corn.
- What it means for you: If you raise cattle, this research suggests that high-shear extrusion is a practical alternative to steam flaking for processing corn, potentially saving money while maintaining the same growth benefits. However, this study only looked at young cattle during their first 38 days in the feedlot, so results may differ for older cattle or longer feeding periods.
The Research Details
Scientists divided 226 young steers into three equal groups. Each group received a different type of processed corn in their feed: rolled corn (the simplest method), steam flaked corn (heated and pressed), or high-shear dry extruded corn (pushed through a machine under high pressure). The cattle ate these diets for 38 days while researchers measured how much they weighed, how much feed they ate, and how efficiently they converted that feed into body weight.
The researchers collected blood and manure samples near the end of the study to measure how well the cattle’s digestive systems broke down the starch in the corn. They used a special calculation method to estimate how much starch the cattle’s bodies actually absorbed and used. All measurements were carefully recorded and analyzed using statistical methods to ensure the results were reliable.
This type of study design, randomly assigning animals to different treatments and measuring multiple outcomes, is considered a strong research method because it helps prove that differences between groups are actually caused by the corn processing method, not by other factors.
How cattle digest their food directly affects how much weight they gain and how much feed farmers need to buy. If a new processing method works as well as an established method but costs less or is easier to use, it could save farmers money. This study matters because it tests whether the newer extrusion method is truly comparable to steam flaking, which has been used successfully for decades.
This study has several strengths: it used a large number of animals (226), randomly assigned them to treatment groups, and measured multiple important outcomes (weight gain, feed intake, starch digestion, and blood markers). The researchers used proper statistical methods and controlled for initial weight differences. However, the study only lasted 38 days and only included young cattle from one ranch, so results might differ for older cattle, different breeds, or cattle from other regions. The study was published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, meaning other experts reviewed it before publication.
What the Results Show
The extruded corn and steam flaked corn produced nearly identical results for helping cattle gain weight efficiently. Cattle fed extruded corn showed about 7% better feed efficiency (meaning they gained more weight per pound of feed eaten) compared to cattle fed rolled corn. Steam flaked corn was intermediate, performing better than rolled corn but slightly less efficiently than extruded corn, though the difference wasn’t statistically significant.
When researchers measured how much starch the cattle’s bodies actually digested and used, both extruded and steam flaked corn were significantly better than rolled corn. This makes sense because both methods break down the corn’s structure, making it easier for the cattle’s digestive system to access and absorb the starch. The improvement in starch digestibility was substantial and statistically significant (P = 0.0002, meaning there’s less than a 0.02% chance this result happened by random chance).
Interestingly, the cattle’s blood sugar and insulin levels didn’t differ between the three groups, suggesting that while the processing method changed how efficiently the cattle used the corn, it didn’t dramatically alter their metabolic response to the feed.
Researchers noticed that the extruded corn created larger feed particles that varied more from week to week compared to the other two methods. This suggests that the extrusion process may affect how the corn mixes with other feed ingredients differently than traditional methods. Despite this difference in particle size, it didn’t negatively impact the cattle’s performance, indicating that the larger particles weren’t a problem.
This research confirms what previous studies have suggested: processing corn improves how cattle digest it. The finding that extrusion performs similarly to steam flaking is important because steam flaking has been the gold standard for decades. This study suggests that extrusion is a legitimate alternative, which could be valuable if extrusion is more cost-effective or easier to implement than steam flaking. The results align with the general principle that breaking down corn’s physical structure improves digestibility.
This study only lasted 38 days and only measured young cattle during their first weeks in the feedlot. Results might be different for cattle fed these diets for longer periods or for older, heavier cattle. All cattle came from a single ranch in South Dakota, so results might not apply to cattle from other regions or different genetic backgrounds. The study used a specific brand of extruded corn (Hi-Gel), so results might differ with other extrusion products. Finally, the study didn’t measure the actual cost of each processing method, so farmers would need to compare prices separately to determine which method is most economical.
The Bottom Line
For feedlot operators: High-shear dry extrusion appears to be a reliable alternative to steam flaking for processing corn in receiving diets for young cattle. The evidence is moderately strong (based on a well-designed study with 226 animals), but you should compare the actual costs of extrusion versus steam flaking at your location before switching. Consider testing the method on a small group of cattle first to ensure it works well with your specific feed ingredients and equipment. Confidence level: Moderate to High for young cattle in the first 38 days of feedlot feeding.
Cattle feedlot operators, particularly those feeding young cattle during the receiving period (first 4-6 weeks in the feedlot). Feed manufacturers and corn processors may also find this information valuable. This research is less relevant for people raising cattle on pasture or for those feeding cattle for very short periods. Cattle producers in regions with different climate or feed availability should consider whether results apply to their situation.
The improvements in feed efficiency and starch digestion should be visible within the first 38 days of feeding, based on this study. However, the long-term effects beyond 38 days are unknown. Farmers should expect to see measurable differences in weight gain and feed consumption within 2-4 weeks of switching to extruded corn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does processing corn differently affect how much weight cattle gain?
Processing method doesn’t significantly change total weight gain, but it does improve feed efficiency. Cattle fed extruded or steam flaked corn gained weight using less feed compared to rolled corn, meaning farmers get more growth per pound of feed purchased.
Is high-shear extrusion better than steam flaking for cattle feed?
No, they perform similarly. A 2026 study of 226 steers found extruded corn worked as well as steam flaked corn for improving starch digestion and feed efficiency. The choice between them should depend on cost and availability in your area.
How long does it take to see improvements from extruded corn?
Based on this 38-day study, improvements in feed efficiency and starch digestion should be measurable within the first 4-6 weeks of feeding extruded corn. Farmers should track weight gain and feed intake weekly to monitor performance.
Will extruded corn work for all types of cattle?
This study only tested young cattle during their first 38 days in the feedlot. Results may differ for older, heavier cattle or for longer feeding periods. Testing on your own cattle is recommended before making a full switch.
What’s the main advantage of extruded corn over rolled corn?
Extruded corn improves how efficiently cattle convert feed into body weight (about 7% better) and increases starch digestion. This means cattle gain more weight per pound of feed, potentially reducing feed costs for farmers.
Want to Apply This Research?
- Track daily feed intake and weekly weight gain for each group of cattle, comparing these metrics between cattle fed extruded corn versus your current processing method. Record the specific brand and batch of extruded corn used, along with the date, to identify any performance variations.
- If using a feedlot management app, input the corn processing method used for each pen of cattle and set reminders to weigh cattle weekly. Compare feed efficiency (weight gain divided by feed intake) between treatment groups to monitor whether the extruded corn is performing as expected in your specific operation.
- Establish a baseline of your current feed efficiency with your existing corn processing method. After switching to extruded corn, track the same metrics for at least 38 days (the length of this study) to give the new method adequate time to demonstrate its benefits. Compare your results to the 7% improvement in feed efficiency found in this research.
This research applies specifically to young Angus crossbred steers during their first 38 days in a feedlot setting. Results may not apply to other cattle breeds, ages, or feeding durations. Consult with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist before making significant changes to your cattle feeding program. The economic benefits of switching corn processing methods depend on local prices and your specific operation, compare costs carefully before implementing changes. This article summarizes scientific research and should not replace professional agricultural advice.
This research translation is published by Gram Research, the science division of Gram, an AI-powered nutrition tracking app.
