Feed and nutrition

Basics of Livestock Feed and Nutrition

• Understand that balanced nutrition is essential for the health and productivity of livestock animals.
• Note that the six basic classes of nutrients needed by livestock are: water, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
• Know that livestock feed typically consists of either forage (grass, hay, silage etc.) or concentrates (grains), or a mix of both.
• Appreciate the importance of trace minerals and vitamins for the normal physiological functions of animals, including growth, reproduction, and immune functions.

Types of Feeds and Their Characteristics

• Understand the distinction between roughage (fiber-rich feeds like hay or straw) and concentrate (energy-dense feeds like cereals).
• Be aware of the significance of protein in livestock diets for growth, production, and repair of body tissues.
• Recognise that fats provide concentrated energy and essential fatty acids, while carbohydrates provide immediate source of energy.
• Understand that different breeds and types of livestock require different types of feed and nutrient profiles, depending on their age, size, function, and reproductive status.

Feed Conversion, Efficiency and Economics

• Understand the concept of feed conversion ratio (FCR), which measures the efficiency with which an animal converts feed into body mass or produce (like milk or eggs).
• Recognise the economic implications of improving feed conversion efficiency, as feed often represents the biggest cost in livestock production.
• Be aware of the environmental impact of inefficient feed use, including waste of resources and excessive manure production.

Best Practices in Livestock Feeding

• Understand the concept of ration formulation, which involves creating a feed mix that provides all necessary nutrients in the correct proportions.
• Appreciate the importance of monitoring feed intake to ensure animals are receiving the right nutrition and to detect any potential health issues.
• Be aware that sudden changes to an animal’s diet can cause digestive disturbances and should be avoided where possible.

Ethics And Sustainability in Livestock Feeding

• Familiarise yourself with the potential ethical and environmental implications associated with certain feed sources, such as genetically modified crops or feeds linked to deforestation.
• Understand the growing interest in alternative feeds, like insect protein or food waste, for improving the sustainability of livestock feeding.
• Realise the potential benefits and challenges of transitioning towards more sustainable feeds. Studies show these can include health benefits for the livestock, but may raise issues related to costs, logistics, and public acceptance.