Upgrading from standard silage film to oxygen barrier film might seem like a small change, but it can deliver big rewards. With improved feed quality, reduced spoilage, and minimal extra cost per square metre, the benefits quickly add up.
Why Silage Quality Matters More Than Ever
Silage plays a huge role in determining feed efficiency and livestock performance. With input costs continuing to rise, protecting that investment has never been more important. One proven method to improve feed value and reduce losses is by switching from traditional black polyethylene film to oxygen barrier film.
Yes, it comes with a slightly higher upfront cost, but the return more than makes up for it. Here's how.
What’s the Problem with Standard Silage Film?
Conventional polyethylene silage film isn’t completely airtight. Over time, small amounts of oxygen seep through, especially in the top layers of the clamp. This can lead to:
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Mouldy, spoiled silage
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Dry matter losses of 10–15% in the upper layers
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Reduced palatability and feed intake
Essentially, every square metre of spoiled silage is money lost and nutrition wasted.
Why Oxygen Barrier Film is a Smarter Choice
Oxygen barrier films are made with a multi-layer structure that significantly reduces oxygen transmission. They create a close, secure seal that helps maintain an anaerobic environment, ideal for proper fermentation.
Benefits include:
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Up to 90% less surface spoilage
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Better dry matter retention
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More stable, higher-quality fermentation
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More usable silage from the same harvest
Let’s Talk Numbers: A Simple ROI Breakdown
Here’s a practical example using real-world figures:
Clamp size: 50m x 20m x 2m = 2,000m³
Silage produced: approx. 1,200 tonnes (at 0.6t/m³)
Silage production cost: €60/tonne → total investment = €72,000
Extra cost for oxygen barrier film: €0.30/m² × 1,000m² = €300
Now for the potential savings...
Reduction in spoilage:
Assume you reduce overall spoilage by just 5%
5% of 1,200 tonnes = 60 tonnes saved
60 tonnes × €60/tonne = €3,600 worth of silage retained
Return on investment:
ROI = (€3,600 – €300) / €300 = 11
That’s an 11:1 return—simply by changing your clamp covering method.
(Right side uses Silostop, Left side uses conventional PE plastic)
More Than Just Financial Gains
The benefits of oxygen barrier film go beyond savings:
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Higher feed quality, leading to improved animal performance
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More consistent rationing and less nutritional variability
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Reduced need for feed additives or supplements
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Less labour needed to remove and manage waste
Final Thoughts: Small Change, Big Impact
Swapping to oxygen barrier silage film is one of the easiest and most cost-effective upgrades a farmer can make. With just €0.30/m² extra cost, you can improve silage quality, reduce waste, and gain over 10 times your investment back, all while helping your livestock thrive.
Better protection = better silage = better profits.
Make the switch to oxygen barrier film and give your silage the protection it deserves.
