NIRS analysis of forages

Importance of the Topic

Forage quality is critical for livestock performance and health, influencing weight maintenance, muscle development, and production. Traditional assays are time consuming and require sample preparation while near infrared spectroscopy enables rapid multiparameter evaluation without reagents or extensive sample prep.

Objectives and Study Overview

The study aims to develop and validate NIR based prediction models for key quality parameters including fat, moisture, crude protein, fiber, ash and starch in different alfalfa forms using a Metrohm NIR Analyzer. Model performance is compared against ISO standard reference methods.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

• Instrumentation Metrohm NIR Analyzer in reflection mode with a rotating large sample cup to reduce inhomogeneity
• Samples Fresh alfalfa, alfalfa pellets and alfalfa cubes measured with spectral averaging across multiple positions
• Reference Methods ISO 6493 for starch, ISO 5984 for ash, ISO 6865 for crude fiber, ISO 5983 Part 1 for crude protein, ISO 6496 for moisture and ISO 6492 for fat content
• Data Handling Metrohm software for spectral acquisition and chemometric model development

Main Results and Discussion

The NIR models achieved strong correlations with reference analyses including R2 values of 0.922 for protein, 0.893 for moisture, 0.906 for ADF and 0.935 for NDF. Figures of merit such as SEC, SECV and SEP remained within acceptable precision ranges across all sample types, confirming reliable prediction capabilities.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Analysis time of only a few seconds per sample
• Simultaneous determination of multiple parameters without chemical reagents
• Reduced operational costs and simplified workflow for quality control in feed production
• Applicable to various physical forms of alfalfa ensuring flexibility in routine analysis

Future Trends and Opportunities

Growth in the adoption of NIR technology for precision feed evaluation driven by automation, cloud computing and advanced chemometric methods. Potential extension to other forage species and integration into digital agriculture platforms.

Conclusion

Metrohm NIR Analyzer presents a fast and accurate alternative to conventional assays for alfalfa forage analysis, aligning with ISO standards and delivering robust multiparameter results for industrial quality control.

References

1. Saracen Horse Feeds The Importance of Forage Saracen Horse Feeds accessed July 9 2025
2. Douliere Hay France Alfalfa Hay for beef and dairy cattle sheep goats broodmares and chickens Douliere Hay France accessed July 9 2025