roughage

Roughage, also known as fiber, is the indigestible material found in foods like legumes, whole grains, and vegetables. It is crucial for promoting waste elimination from the large intestine and is linked to good health, weight management, and a reduced risk of diseases like colon cancer.1

In agriculture, roughages are a classification of animal feed that includes pasture grasses, hays, silage, root crops, straw, and stover (cornstalks). These are typically low in protein and high in fiber, with low digestibility. While straw and hulls can maintain mature animals when other feeds are scarce, they require supplementation to meet nutritional needs for growth and production. Pasture grasses and legumes are a primary feed source for ruminants like cattle and sheep, offering a cost-effective option during the growing season.23