Which of the following is currently used as an input for a cattle feed ration?

Defective Skittles are indeed used as an input for cattle feed rations because they are often repurposed as a source of energy or protein in livestock diets. These candies, which may not meet quality standards for human consumption, can provide carbohydrates and sugars, contributing to the overall caloric intake of the animals. The practice of utilizing such food byproducts is a part of modern livestock management, aimed at improving feed efficiency and reducing waste.

In contrast, while discarded fast food has been considered for animal feed and contains high energy content, it may not be a commonly accepted or regulated feed option due to concerns about safety, preservatives, and nutritional balance. Pinecones are not a practical feed source for cattle as they are tough and not easily digestible, lacking the necessary nutrients. Grasshoppers could potentially be used as a protein source, but they are not commonly included in cattle feed rations on a large scale compared to other feed ingredients.