Category: Feed ingredients

With a typical crude protein content of 60–72%, fish meal is primarily known as a protein supplement, yet it also contains a significant amount of fat. This nutrient-rich feed ingredient is derived from small, oily fish and fish processing by-products, providing a balanced profile of essential nutrients for animal diets. Understanding the complete composition of fish meal, including its fat content, is vital for formulating effective and healthy feed.

NSP, or non-starch polysaccharides, account for up to 20% of plant-based poultry diets. These complex carbohydrates are a major component of dietary fiber in plant-based ingredients and are difficult for monogastric animals like poultry and pigs to digest, negatively impacting nutrient absorption and overall health. Understanding what are NSP in feed ingredients is crucial for modern animal nutritionists aiming to optimize feed formulation and animal performance.

According to Feedipedia, soybean meal is the most important protein source used to feed farm animals, making its digestibility a critical factor in efficient livestock production. The 'digest' of soybean meal refers to the nutritional bioavailability achieved through processing, ensuring proteins and other nutrients are accessible for animal consumption.

Soybean meal, the most common type of bean meal, typically contains between 44% and 49% crude protein, depending on whether it is dehulled. This protein content varies significantly among different types of beans and based on how the meal is processed, from full-fat options to high-protein concentrates.

Over 90% of lysine is digestible in properly processed soybean meal for swine and poultry, a key reason it is considered a gold-standard protein source for livestock. Knowing what is the amino acid digestibility of soybean meal is crucial for accurately formulating feed and optimizing animal growth and health. However, several factors can influence this nutritional measure, including processing, genetics, and the presence of antinutritional compounds.

Did you know that trypsin inhibitors, natural defense proteins in many plants, are present in various feed ingredients like raw soybeans and legumes? These antinutrients can hinder protein digestion and nutrient absorption in livestock, which is a major concern for feed efficiency.

As the world's most prominent protein source for farm animals, soybean meal (SBM) plays a vital role in modern animal nutrition. It is a by-product of soybean oil extraction and is prized for its excellent amino acid balance and high protein concentration. This guide delves into what SBM is, its key nutritional characteristics, and its widespread applications.