Tag: Feed science

Carbohydrates are the most abundant component of most animal diets, comprising up to 70% or more of the dry matter in many feedstuffs like grains and forages. In essence, what are carbohydrates in feeds is a fundamental question for anyone involved in animal husbandry, as these organic compounds are the primary and most cost-effective source of energy for livestock. Without proper carbohydrate intake, animals can suffer from health issues and reduced productivity.

While soybean meal is a valuable source of protein in animal feed, containing all essential amino acids, it naturally contains several anti-nutritional factors (ANFs) that can hinder nutrient utilization. These compounds are a natural defense mechanism for the plant, but if not properly managed, they can negatively impact animal health and growth performance.

According to agricultural nutrition principles, not all dietary protein is absorbed by an animal's body; some is excreted as waste. Digestible crude protein (DCP) is a crucial metric that reveals the true nutritional value of a feedstuff by measuring the proportion of protein that an animal can actually utilize.