Whole steamed corn enhances growth performance and alters rumen microbiota in fattening lambs

Whole steamed corn enhanced growth performance, likely associated with improved starch utilization and modulation of the rumen microbiota, without compromising meat quality. Compared with grinding or flaking, steaming corn kernels provided a practical and energy-efficient approach, yielding 22%-24% higher ADG. Further research should refine steaming conditions and evaluate the economic viability of this method.