Yes. Wheat grain can be used as an energy feed replacing shelled corn in the milking ration. Generally, wheat (depending on the variety) is 2 to 4% higher in crude protein and about the same energy as corn. Wheat can be replaced, pound for pound, with corn up to a maximum of 50% of the grain mix (15 to 20% in meal form and 35% in pelleted form is more common).
Wheat should be coarsely processed. Finely ground wheat is powdery and unpalatable if not mixed in a total mixed ration (TMR). To avoid a garlicky taste in the milk, do not feed two to three hours prior to milking. Be cautious of wheat that may have been infected with scab disease because of the vomitoxin potential in the grain.
Economics would dictate feeding wheat when the price is lower than shelled corn. As with any feeding change, gradually include the new feed in the mix.
Dave Fischer, Extension Dairy Educator, University of Illinois - Illini DairyNET
