The Effect of Kernel Maturity at Harvest as Measured by Moisture Content, on the Metabolizable Energy Value of Corn

The metabolizable energy (M.E.) value of three corn hybrids harvested at moisture contents of approximately 53, 45, 39 and 31% was determined with adult roosters. Corn M.E., corrected to 85% dry matter, was related to maturity at harvest, with the more immature corn samples providing less M.E. M.E. value was correlated with moisture content at harvest, 100 kernel weight and bushel weight. Regression analysis showed that the M.E. value of immature corn decreases by some 12 kcal./kg. for each 1% increase in moisture at harvest.