Production Animal Feed Formulation Module

The module will identify personnel responsible for production animal feed formulation, identify differences in diet formulation between species of animals and phase production within a species, and compare principles of least-cost formulation to other methods of feed formulation. This grain module is brought to you by the Iowa Grain Quality Initiative, and was produced by the former Crop Adviser Institute.

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Learning objective: Identify personnel, differences in diet between species, and compare principles of least-cost formulation to other methods of feed formulation.

Introduction: With one billion tons of animal feed produced worldwide annually, the industry needs individuals who understand feed formulation. An animal’s nutrient requirements are constantly fluctuating due to changes in genetics and the animal’s physiological state.

Species feeding: Animal species is the most influential factor in dictating nutrient needs. Chickens and pigs are fed corn based diets and ruminants are fed roughage based diets. All production animals have diets that contain vitamins, trace minerals, and salt. The specifics of nutrient requirements in diets by species are known and form the basis for feed formulation.

Phase feeding: Feed programs must meet nutritional requirements based on the animal’s stage of growth or production, genetic capacity, health, and facilities. There are different diets for various physiological states, but constantly changing diets can lead to errors in feed manufacturing. Nutritionists should consider costs, nutrient requirements, and practicality regardless of species or growth phase.

Least-cost formulation: To formulate a least-cost diet, the formulation team must look at the ingredient cost, the nutrient composition, and the animal’s nutrient requirements. Nutritionists often decide to not feed least-cost diets and instead choose diets that will minimize excreted nutrients.

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Publication Date: 09/2016

Permanent link for this product: https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/14585