Tag: Livestock nutrition

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), feed and feed ingredients are substances intended for animal consumption that, when used as intended, should not present an unacceptable risk to consumer health. This comprehensive guide delves into what is the definition of animal food, exploring the various types, nutritional aspects, and regulatory distinctions that govern its production and use.

According to the UN Environment Programme, dietary changes towards increased meat consumption have driven a 38% per capita increase in global phosphorus demand over the last 50 years. Digestible phosphorus is the specific amount of this vital mineral that an animal can actually absorb and utilize for its biological functions, unlike the total phosphorus content in feed.

Approximately 60-70% of a typical dairy cow's diet is comprised of carbohydrates. Basal energy feed, often referred to as a carbohydrate concentrate, is a high-energy animal feed that provides the necessary sugars and starches to power the vital functions of livestock and other animals. These feeds are low in crude fiber, low in protein, and are highly digestible to provide an efficient source of calories.

According to agricultural nutrition experts, basal feed is defined as a concentrated source of energy, primarily comprising starches and sugars. Yes, basal feed is typically high in carbohydrates, forming the main energy component of a livestock animal's diet. This article explores the types of carbohydrates in basal feed and their significance for different animals.

Did you know that in its early vegetative stages, improved crabgrass cultivars can contain a crude protein content ranging from 25% to 30%? This fact challenges its common reputation as a simple lawn weed and brings a much-needed spotlight on the question of how much protein is in crabgrass and its potential as a valuable livestock feed.

Approximately 70% of a horse's dietary needs can be met by high-quality forage, but these diets often lack essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. The purpose of a ration balancer is to fill these nutritional gaps, providing a concentrated, low-calorie source of vital nutrients for animals whose energy requirements are already met by their primary forage source.

In the United States, over 500,000 tons of bakery meal are produced annually from unsalable baked goods. What is bakery meal used for, and how does this cost-effective, high-energy ingredient benefit livestock production?

Globally, the animal feed industry is projected to reach over 1.3 billion metric tons in volume by 2025, driven by the increasing demand for animal-based protein. This growth is a testament to the essential role of specialized feeds in modern agriculture, highlighting the significant benefits of animal feed for producers, animals, and consumers.

Up to 80% of protein in conventional feed is degraded in the rumen of cattle, but bypass protein meal is specially processed to escape this initial digestion, allowing for more efficient absorption of essential amino acids in the animal's intestines. This technology is vital for meeting the high nutritional demands of modern, high-producing livestock.

Studies show that dried azolla can contain a crude protein content ranging from 19% to over 30% by dry weight, comparable to some conventional feeds like soybean meal. So, is azolla a good source of protein for various applications, or are there hidden limitations to consider before use?