We dive into how and why to consider using Lactipro from Axiota Animal Health as a cattle probiotic.  We have the latest news and markets, plus your chance to get your hands on more Ranch It Up gear.  Tune in to this all new episode of the Ranch It Up Radio Show.  Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcasting app or on the Ranch It Up Radio Show YouTube Channel. EPISODE 198 DETAILS Why Lactipro As A Probiotic For Cattle How Lactipro Works As A Probiotic For Cattle  Introduction to Lactipro Lactipro is a rumen-native probiotic containing a live, stable strain of Megasphaera elsdenii (Mega e®), an effective lactic acid utilizer. It helps cattle producers maintain healthy rumen pH and improve profitability by accelerating finishing diets and reducing post-terminal processing mortality. Key Benefits of Lactipro Shortens step-up period by 50% or more Reduces post-terminal processing performance losses Supports rumen health in hospital cattle Lactipro promotes rumen health during transitions to higher-grain diets, grazing crop residue, and as bulls move to higher energy diets during development. How Does Lactipro Work? Naturally occurring Mega e takes weeks to handle grain-based diets effectively. Fast-growing bacteria produce excessive lactic acid, lowering rumen pH and causing health issues like acidosis. Lactipro introduces Mega e directly into the rumen, consuming lactic acid and producing butyric acid, which promotes cell growth and better VFA absorption. The Importance of Mega e Strain MS Biotec’s patented Mega e strain is selected for its: Rapid growth and resilience Production of butyric acid Compatibility with feed additives Enhanced rumen fermentation with other microbials Two Formulations of Lactipro LactiproNXT® An easy-to-use drench available in 200 mL and 1,000 mL pouches, ideal for processing multiple cattle. LactiproFLX® A small capsule in a 25-capsule resealable pouch, perfect for individual animals or small groups. Administration Both formulations provide equal bacterial counts and are effective, with an extended shelf life requiring refrigeration. LactiproFLX comes in three types: Dairy – for replacement heifers and mature cows Feedlot – for feedlot cattle and developing bulls Calf – for young calves Use Cases Accelerated Step-Up Shortens step-up period by 50% or more for a faster diet transition. Terminal Processing Reduces post-terminal processing performance losses. Other Use Cases Supports rumen health during diet transitions, grazing, and bull development phases. Integrating Lactipro ensures a healthier rumen, leading to better overall cattle health and profitability. Latest Cattle Industry News North Carolina Man Pleads In Nation-Wide Cattle Theft Conspiracy According to the U.S. attorney for the Western District of North Carolina and MeatingPlace.com, a North Carolina man pleaded guilty to implementing a scheme to steal $1 million worth of cattle across the country. From April 2018 to October 2022, William Dalton Edwards, 25, of Mount Airy, N.C., and an accomplice defrauded livestock markets in North Carolina, Texas, Oklahoma and Virginia by writing worthless checks for cattle purchases, according to the plea. The stolen cattle were then transported out of state and resold, resulting in losses exceeding $1 million to family-owned sales barns. Edwards' guilty plea includes charges of conspiring to defraud the U.S. and violate federal laws. The statutory maximum sentence for the offense is five years in prison. Edwards is currently out on bond, with a sentencing date yet to be determined. U.S. Beef Export Value Nears Two-Year High The value of U.S. beef exports hit a near two-year high in June, the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) commented late last week. Despite lower volume compared to a year ago, US beef exports in June were worth $938.3 million, a 22-month peak.  Exports to Japan rose, and Taiwan continued buying US beef at near-record levels. Exports to Canada were at a near-de