Coarse feeds
Coarse feed is a plant-based food with a low water content and high fiber content. They are the main component of the diet of ruminants, as their digestive system is adapted to the digestion of fiber.
The main types of coarse feed:
- hay (dried grass). It contains a large amount of fiber, vitamins and minerals.;
- straw (stalks of cereal crops after threshing). It is less nutritious than hay, but it is also rich in fiber.
However, coarse feeds have their limitations: They cannot fully meet the energy and protein needs of animals, so it is important to combine them with other types of feed.
Juicy feeds
Juicy feeds are characterized by a high water content, which makes them valuable in the diet, especially in the hot season, when animals need additional hydration. They are especially beneficial during the period of active growth of animals or during lactation in pets.
Types of succulent feeds:
- silage is a fermented feed obtained from green fodder plants. It has excellent nutritional value and is well absorbed by animals. Silage can be prepared from corn, herbs or mixed crops, which allows you to diversify the diet.;
- root vegetables such as beets, carrots and potatoes. They contain a lot of sugars and provide animals with essential carbohydrates and vitamins. Root vegetables are especially useful for dairy cows, as they help to increase productivity;
- green herbs are freshly cut herbs that contain many vitamins and minerals. They can be used in the summer or as part of the diet in the form of a cut.;
- grass haylage is freshly cut grasses that have been fermented. It contains a lot of nutrients and is used instead of fresh herbs in winter.
Concentrated feed
Concentrated feeds are characterized by a high content of nutrients (proteins, fats, carbohydrates) with a small volume. They are the main source of energy and protein for animals.
The main types of concentrated feed include cereals (wheat, barley, corn, oats), processed grain and oilseeds (bran, cake and meal), legumes (peas, soybeans).
Barley is one of the most common feeds for agricultural livestock, which is valued for its nutritional value, high energy and versatility. It is an important component of the diet of many animal species, including cows, pigs, sheep and poultry. Barley has a rich chemical composition, which makes it a valuable source of energy and nutrients for animals. The level of digestible carbohydrates in barley is about 70%, which makes it a high-energy food. The protein content of 10-12% is sufficient to meet the protein needs of animals, especially when combined with other sources. Barley is rich in vitamins E, C, group B and minerals such as calcium, sulfur, phosphorus, iron, copper and zinc.
Due to its rich composition and good digestibility, barley helps to increase animal productivity and improve product quality. However, in order to achieve optimal results, it is necessary to choose the right varieties of barley, take into account its quality and correctly prepare rations.
Corn is a valuable component of the diet of farm animals. It contains about 60% starch, which makes it a high-calorie food. Corn also contains 8-10% protein, amino acids, carotene, phosphorus, sodium, magnesium, iron, zinc, vitamin E. To maximize the benefits of corn in animal nutrition, it is important to take into account the variety of uses of this crop. It can be used as whole grain, bran, silage, flour or corn flour, which allows its use to be adapted to different categories of animals and their needs. The proper inclusion of corn in the diet of animals can help improve their overall health, productivity and health, making corn an essential component of agricultural production.
Oats are a basic part of the diet of many livestock species, providing important nutrients. Oats are rich in starch, contain proteins, amino acids, fats (including healthy unsaturated fatty acids), fiber, avenin, vitamins A and E, B vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sodium, chlorine, etc.
Whole oats are an important source of nutrition for horses. The oat grain, covered with a protective film, contains a high amount of fiber, which stimulates horses to chew longer and more thoroughly. Fiber affects the digestive process by promoting the breakdown of carbohydrates by amylase, a digestive enzyme present in saliva. Once in the stomach and intestines, fiber accelerates digestion and supports peristalsis. Thus, whole grain oats are quickly absorbed, providing the animal with energy and nutrients. The fiber contained continues its work: it becomes a medium for microorganisms living in the cecum, contributing to the production of B vitamins necessary for horses. The microorganisms themselves also serve as a source of complete protein after digestion and assimilation by the horse’s body.
Finely ground oats can be used to prepare a nutritious product for young animals and weakened animals, called oat milk. The cooking process is quite simple: boiled in 5 liters and cooled to +50 °1 kg of oat flour is added from the water; the mixture is wrapped, and after 3-3.5 hours the product can be given to animals. For piglets, you can include milk or yogurt. If it is calculated for calves or adult cattle, it is recommended to add a tablespoon of salt. Oat milk is well absorbed and easily digested, helping to normalize digestion, restore strength and levels of fluids and salts in the body in case of various diseases.
Wheat is a real storehouse of nutrients for livestock. Wheat grains contain a wide range of nutrients. Rich in proteins, wheat is an excellent source of energy and a building material for animals. In addition, it is saturated with carbohydrates, which are a real fuel for livestock metabolism, providing them with energy for activity and growth. Wheat grains contain a whole arsenal of essential trace elements to combat stress and disease: vitamin E and B vitamins, copper, manganese, zinc – all of these are present in wheat, creating an ideal nutritional richness.
Wheat grain is not recommended to be used in its pure form for animal feeding. It is best to combine it with other types of concentrated feeds. A feed mixture consisting of wheat, barley, soybean meal and corn is effective.
Triticale is a hybrid of a grain crop obtained by crossing wheat and rye. It has unique properties, combining the best characteristics of both parent plants. High yields and adaptability to different climatic conditions make triticale an attractive option for agricultural production. Triticale grain surpasses other cereals in the content of tryptophan and lysine, which makes it especially useful for the nutrition of both humans and animals. Tryptophan and lysine are essential amino acids that play an important role in various biochemical processes and are essential for full—fledged growth and health. In addition, triticale is superior to barley and oats in starch content, which means that triticale can serve as a more efficient source of energy for livestock. Triticale has a higher protein content compared to wheat and rye. Animals are more likely to eat triticale compared to rye.
Rye is infrequently used in animal feeding for two reasons:
- animals are reluctant to eat it because of its low taste qualities;
- the content of gluten and non-starchy polysaccharides in its grain is similar to wheat, which reduces its feed value.
However, if it is decided to include it in the diet for some reason, then it is necessary to gradually train the animals, starting with the minimum doses and increasing them to the recommended amount. It is recommended to give rye crushed, combined with other cereals, or subjected to heat treatment. The extrusion of rye grain shows good results.
Rye contains B vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin) and B6 (pyridoxine), which are important for metabolism and the health of the nervous system of animals. Vitamin E, an antioxidant, is also present, supporting the immune system.
The mineral composition of rye includes potassium, magnesium, iron and zinc. Potassium helps in regulating the water-salt balance, magnesium is essential for muscle and nervous system function, iron is essential for hematopoiesis, and zinc plays a role in wound healing and immune function.
Soy is one of the most protein-rich types of grain. The main nutritional value of soybeans lies in its high protein content. Soy or its derivatives are often added to the diet of herbivores to enrich the feed with protein. The protein content of soybeans varies from 38% to 46%, depending on various factors.
In terms of its composition and amino acid ratio, soy protein is very close to full-fledged animal protein. Given that in most cases, the feed does not use whole soy with a high fat content, but its meal or cake, the use of soy products becomes a relative economy in providing productive animals with high-quality protein. Soy is rich in fats containing healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are important for healthy skin, coat, and overall animal health. Soybeans are also a source of complex carbohydrates that provide energy for a long time.
The vitamin composition of soy includes B vitamins such as B1, B2, B6 and folic acid, which are involved in metabolic processes, support of the nervous system and hematopoiesis. Vitamin E in soybeans acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.
Soy is also rich in minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Calcium and phosphorus are important for bone development, magnesium for the functioning of the nervous and muscular systems, iron for oxygen transport, and zinc for immunity and reproductive health.
Soybeans also contain anti-nutritional components. The most active among them are inhibitors of proteolytic enzymes, which interact with digestive enzymes and form chemically neutral compounds with them. They interfere with the normal process of splitting feed into simple nutrients, disrupting digestion and causing gastrointestinal disorders in animals. To neutralize these harmful substances, it is recommended to subject full-fat soybeans to special treatment, such as micronization or extrusion, before feeding.
Peas are a legume crop that has long been used in the diet of animals due to its high nutritional value. It is an excellent source of plant protein, essential for the growth and development of muscles in animals.
Why are peas good for animals?
- High protein content: Pea protein is easily digested by animals and contains all the necessary amino acids to maintain health;
- Rich in vitamins and minerals: Peas contain B vitamins, vitamin C, as well as minerals such as iron, potassium, and phosphorus, which play an important role in metabolism and strengthening the immune system;
- Low fat content: Peas are a low-calorie product, which makes them suitable for overweight animals.
Peas can be included in the diet of various animals, including birds, rabbits, rodents and some types of livestock. It can be given to animals in dried, sprouted or boiled form. Remember that raw peas can cause bloating in some animals, so gradually introduce them into the diet to avoid digestive disorders.
Compound feed is one of the most valuable types of concentrated feed, which is widely used in animal husbandry to provide animals with essential nutrients. It is a carefully balanced mixture of various components that are selected in scientifically sound proportions, which makes it possible to maximize the physiological needs of specific species and age groups of animals.
Compound feeds are developed taking into account the specific needs of animals. For example, there are separate types of compound feeds for dairy, mature and dry cows, calves, suckling pigs, young pigs for fattening, as well as for poultry (separately for egg and meat breeds). Specialized feeds for broilers, rabbits, chinchillas and other animals are also produced.
Each type of compound feed differs in composition and purpose. For example, compound feed for dairy cows contains more protein and energy to maintain high milk productivity, and mixed feed for calves is enriched with vitamins and minerals necessary for growth and development. Compound feed for broilers, in turn, has a high protein and energy content for rapid weight gain.
Methods of grain preparation for feeding
Feed quality is the key to animal health and productivity. Grain, as the main component of the diet of many species, requires special attention. Spoiled grain is not only useless, but can also cause poisoning, diseases, and even death of livestock.
The appearance of the grain is the first indicator of its quality. Healthy grain has a characteristic color and shape, without signs of mold, rot or mechanical damage. Grain moisture also plays an important role. High humidity creates a favorable environment for the development of microorganisms, which can lead to food spoilage. The optimal moisture content of grain is usually 14-16%.
However, it is not only the external signs that make it possible to assess the quality of the feed. The smell of grain can also tell a lot about its condition. Fresh grain has a characteristic, pleasant aroma. The smell of fish indicates the presence of fungal spores in the product, while the bitter smell indicates that the fat in the grain (usually crushed) has oxidized and become rancid. A sweet smell may be a sign that the grain was harvested raw, and under the influence of low temperatures (possibly frost) during storage, some of the starch was converted into sugar, or the grain began to germinate. The honey smell indicates a significant lesion of the grain by ticks. A bread or alcohol smell occurs in grain affected by yeast, and a musty aroma indicates mold infection.
The results of feeding grain feeds, their nutritional value and the degree of digestibility depend not only on the type of grain itself, but also on the methods of its processing. Grain feed can be prepared in various ways: germination, grinding, steaming after grinding, flattening, roasting, micronization, extrusion, salting and yeast.
Grinding is the most common and effective way to prepare animal feed.
Why grind grain?
- Improved digestibility: Grinding increases the surface area of the grain, which contributes to a more intense effect of digestive juices on it. This leads to a more complete breakdown of nutrients and their better absorption by the animal’s body;
- Increased digestibility: Finely ground grain has a more pleasant texture and smell, which stimulates the appetite of animals. This is especially important for young animals and animals with digestive problems;
- Easier feeding: Ground grain is easier to mix with other feed groups to enhance its beneficial, energetic and nutritional properties. It is much easier to add medicines, vitamin complexes, anthelmintics and other products to crushed grain. In addition, crushed grain is easier to steam than whole grain;
- Digestive optimization: Crushed grains are easier to digest, which reduces the stress on the digestive system and promotes more efficient use of nutrients;
- Preventing feed selection: When feeding whole grains, animals can choose the parts that are most attractive to them, leaving the less nutritious ones. Grinding allows you to create a more homogeneous mixture, providing the animals with all the necessary nutrients;
- Waste reduction: Using crushed grains reduces the amount of feed that animals can throw away or leave behind, as fine particles are easier to swallow and digest.
Roasting is a traditional method of preparing barley for feeding young pigs, especially in the first weeks of life. This procedure gives the grain a number of beneficial properties that positively affect the health and development of piglets.
Toasted barley is easier for young animals to digest due to the partial decomposition of starch and the formation of easily digestible sugars. This reduces the stress on the piglets’ digestive system and promotes better absorption of nutrients.
The high temperature during roasting destroys pathogenic microorganisms that may be present on the surface of the grain, which reduces the risk of infectious diseases in piglets. Toasted grain has a denser structure and a specific flavor, which stimulates piglets to chew actively. This promotes the development of chewing muscles and facilitates teething.
Roast the grain evenly until it acquires a red-brown color and a characteristic coffee flavor. A small amount of charred grains is not considered a marriage, but on the contrary, it is considered useful for piglets’ digestion. Charred grain particles have adsorbing properties, binding and removing toxins and gases from the body. Toasted barley should be stored in a dry, cool place.
Flattening is the process of mechanical processing of grain with high humidity (30-40%), in which the grain is crushed between special rollers. This allows you to get a product ready for animal feeding or preservation.
The advantages of flattening grain:
- the ability to harvest crops until they are fully ripe, which avoids crop losses due to bad weather and reduces harvesting time;
- flattening grain is much cheaper than drying, as it does not require much energy. This significantly reduces the cost of the feed unit;
- flattened grain is easily digested and well absorbed by animals due to a violation of the grain structure and an increase in the surface area of contact with digestive juices;
- the flattened grain is suitable for feeding all kinds of farm animals;
- flattened grain can be preserved in plastic bags without air access, with the addition of special starter cultures. This allows you to preserve the nutritional value of the feed for a long time.
Extrusion is an innovative technology for processing feed, which significantly increases its nutritional value and improves digestibility. This process consists of mechanical action on grain at high temperature and pressure using special equipment – an extruder, resembling an industrial meat grinder. Inside its thick-walled cone chamber, an auger rotates, which captures the grain and moves it around the chamber. At the same time, the grain is subjected to intense mechanical stress, which leads to its heating to a temperature of 150-200 °C and pressure up to 36-40 atmospheres. It is possible to extrude both different types of grain: wheat, barley, corn, soy, etc., and grain mixtures.
Advantages of extruded feed:
- high nutritional value. Under the influence of high temperature and pressure, starch in the grain breaks down into easily digestible sugars, proteins are denatured and become more accessible for digestion, and fiber partially softens;
- improved digestibility. Due to its porous structure and high availability of nutrients, extruded feeds are easily digested and absorbed by animals almost completely (up to 98%);
- safety. The high processing temperature destroys the pathogenic microflora, helminth eggs and harmful substances contained in the grain;
- appetite stimulation. The extruded feed has a pleasant aroma and taste, which helps to increase the appetite of animals:
- cost-effectiveness. Extruded feeds can reduce feed consumption and increase animal productivity.
The use of extruded grains in the diet of animals has many advantages. Firstly, the productivity of animals increases, as their bodies receive more nutrients from the same volume of feed. Secondly, feed conversion improves, that is, the amount of products (for example, milk, meat or eggs) produced per feed unit increases. This makes the use of extruded grain economically beneficial for agricultural enterprises. In addition, due to a more complete assimilation of animal feed, the amount of excrement is reduced, which simplifies waste disposal and reduces the burden on the environment.
Micronization is a grain processing method based on the use of infrared radiation with a wavelength from 1,500 to 3,500 nm, which heats grain to temperatures from +100 °C to +200 °C. The processing time varies from one minute to several minutes, depending on the type of grain and the desired result. It is important to note that micronization occurs without mechanical action, which preserves the integrity of the grain and minimizes nutrient losses.
The micronization equipment, called a micronizer, consists of a conveyor belt above which infrared lamps are located. The grain moves slowly along the belt, warming up evenly under the influence of infrared rays. As a result of such processing, significant changes occur at the molecular level in the grain. Proteins are denatured, which improves their digestibility, and anti-nutritional substances such as tannin in millet and sorghum or digestive enzyme inhibitors in legumes are destroyed. This makes the grain safer and healthier for animals.
One of the key effects of micronization is the conversion of starch into sugar. This not only increases the energy value of the feed, but also makes it more attractive to animals due to its sweet taste. Carbohydrates become soluble, which facilitates their absorption by the body. In addition, the internal structure of the grain becomes more friable, which helps to increase its volume by up to 30%. This makes the food more voluminous and satisfying, which is especially important for animals with high nutritional needs.
Micronization also reduces grain moisture by 50-55%, which increases its shelf life and prevents the development of mold and fungi. An important advantage of this method is the complete disinfection of grain, both on the surface and in depth. This allows you to destroy pathogenic microorganisms, spores and fungi that can cause diseases in animals. Externally, the grain can change color, smell and taste, which makes it more attractive to animals.
The use of micronized grains in the diet of farm animals has many advantages. Firstly, feed costs are reduced, as animals receive more nutrients from a smaller feed volume. Secondly, animal productivity increases, which is especially important for meat and dairy farming. For example, studies have shown that the growth of piglets on micronized grain is 34.2% higher compared to conventional ground grain. In addition, the risk of digestive disorders is reduced, as micronized grains are easier to digest and digest.
Different types of grain crops have their own optimal micronization regimes. For example, for barley, it is recommended to process for 50 seconds at 180 ° C, for oats – 30 seconds, for wheat – 60 seconds, and for peas – 70 seconds at the same temperature. Soybeans that contain trypsin inhibitors require longer processing – 90 seconds at a temperature of +195-200 ° C. This reduces the content of inhibitors to an acceptable level (2-3 mg/kg), which makes soy safe for animals.
The estimated electricity consumption during micronization is about 200 kWh per ton of feed. This makes the process economically beneficial, especially given the increased nutritional value of the feed and the reduced cost of its use. After micronization, it is recommended to grind the grain, as this allows you to preserve the effect of processing and facilitate its use in animal feeding.
Products of grain and oilseed processing
Products formed during the processing of grain and oilseeds occupy a significant place in the diet of farm animals.
Bran is a valuable grain processing product that is widely used in feeding farm animals. Although wheat and rye bran are the most common, there are also bran from barley, oatmeal, buckwheat, rice, millet and other crops. Bran consists of grain shells (films) that covered the grain, as well as a small number of endosperm and germ particles. Despite the fact that the proportion of these particles is small, bran has a certain nutritional value of about 0.7–0.78 feed units per 1 kg.
The main feature of bran is its high fiber content, which varies from 8 to 11%. This makes them useful for stimulating the gastrointestinal tract of animals. Fiber helps to improve intestinal motility and enhances the secretion of digestive juices, which has a positive effect on the digestion of food.
Bran is also rich in vitamins and minerals. They contain B vitamins, which play an important role in metabolism and maintaining animal health. The total vitamin content of this group is 0.4–0.7 g/kg. In addition, bran contains vitamin E, A, PP. Of the macronutrients in bran, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron can be isolated. However, trace elements such as iodine, cobalt, manganese, copper, selenium and zinc are either absent in wheat bran or are contained in minimal amounts in rye.
The digestibility of nutrients in bran is relatively high: protein is absorbed by 74%, carbohydrates by 88%, and fat by 92%. This makes bran an effective feed component that can be included in the diet of various animal species. However, their share in the diet depends on the type and age of the animals. For example, for ruminants, bran can account for up to 20% of the total amount of concentrates. In the diets of pigs and productive poultry, their share usually does not exceed 5-10% of the total grain feed. At the same time, bran is not recommended to be included in the diet of suckling pigs and weanlings, since their digestive system is not yet ready to process large amounts of fiber.
An important aspect of using bran is its storage. To preserve all the nutrients, the moisture content of the bran should not exceed 15%. High humidity can lead to the development of mold and mildew, making the food unusable. Therefore, when storing bran, it is necessary to maintain low humidity, provide good ventilation and protect from direct sunlight.
Flour is a valuable product of the milling industry, which is close to bran in its feed characteristics. It consists of finely ground bran and fine grain particles, which makes it nutritious and easily digestible. Depending on the type of grain and the ratio of components, the nutritional value of flour varies from 0.78 to 1.01 feed units per 1 kg. This allows it to be used as an effective feed additive for farm animals.
Flour can be obtained from various grain crops, including wheat, buckwheat, millet, rye, rice, barley, oats and peas. Each type of flour has its own characteristics, but they are all well digested and absorbed by the body of animals. The digestibility of nutrients in flour ranges from 68 to 90%, which makes it a valuable source of energy, protein, carbohydrates and other useful elements. Due to its structure and composition, flour is easily incorporated into the diet of animals, improving their digestion and general condition.
However, when using flour in animal feeding, it is important to take into account its features. For example, buckwheat flour contains a substance called photoporphyrin, which increases the sensitivity of animal skin to ultraviolet radiation. This can lead to sunburn in fair-skinned animals, especially pigs and sheep after shearing. Pigs have thin wool, which allows sunlight to penetrate to the skin, while sheep’s skin becomes more vulnerable after shearing. Therefore, when feeding buckwheat flour, it is recommended to limit the time spent by animals in the open sun or provide them with access to darkened areas.
Despite this nuance, flour remains a useful and economically profitable feed product. It is rich in protein, carbohydrates, and fiber, making it suitable for a variety of animal species, including cattle, pigs, poultry, and sheep. Flour also contains vitamins and minerals that are essential for maintaining animal health and productivity. For example, wheat and rye flour contain significant amounts of B vitamins, which play an important role in metabolism.
However, as in the case of bran, it is important to follow the rules for introducing flour into the diet. For ruminants, its share can be up to 15-20% of the total amount of concentrates, and for pigs and poultry – 5-10%. This helps to avoid an overabundance of fiber and ensure a balanced diet.
Storing flour also requires attention. To preserve its nutritional properties, it is necessary to maintain low humidity (no more than 14-15%) and protect it from moisture and mold. Proper storage allows you to use flour for a long time without losing its quality.
Cake is a product obtained after mechanical extraction of oil from oilseeds. It is widely used in livestock feeding due to its high content of protein, fat and other nutrients. However, not all types of cake are suitable for use as feed, as some of them may contain toxic substances or have low nutritional value. Sunflower, corn and soy cakes are the most common and in demand in our zone. Less commonly used is linseed cake, which, despite its beneficial properties, has not become so widespread.
Sunflower oil cake is one of the most popular types of fodder cake. It is obtained after extracting oil from sunflower seeds and contains about 30-40% protein, which makes it a valuable source of protein for animals. In addition, sunflower oil cake contains up to 7-10% fat, which provides high energy value. It also contains B vitamins, vitamin E, phosphorus, potassium and other minerals.
Sunflower oil cake is well absorbed by animals and can be used in the diet of cattle, pigs, poultry and other animal species. However, due to the high fiber content (up to 20%), its share in the diet should be limited, especially for young animals and animals with sensitive digestion. Sunflower oil cake is also rich in arginine, which makes it useful for the growth and development of animals.
Soy cake is a high–protein product that is obtained after extracting oil from soybeans. It contains up to 45-50% protein, which makes it one of the most nutritious types of cake. Soy cake is also rich in essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine, which are essential for the growth and development of animals. In addition, it contains about 1-2% fat, B vitamins, vitamin E, and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron. Soybean meal is widely used in feeding all kinds of farm animals, including poultry, pigs and cattle. It is especially useful for young and highly productive animals, as it promotes rapid weight gain and improved productivity. However, before use, soy cake must be heat-treated to neutralize trypsin inhibitors, which can impair protein absorption.
Corn cake is obtained after squeezing oil from corn kernels. It contains about 8-10% protein, which is lower than in sunflower and soybean meal, but it has a high energy value due to the fat content (up to 5-7%) and carbohydrates. Corn cake is also rich in carotenoids, which improve the yolk color in poultry and help strengthen the immune system of animals. This type of cake is well suited for feeding poultry, pigs and cattle. It is easily digested and can be used both in its pure form and as part of compound feeds. However, due to its relatively low protein content, corn cake is more often used as an additional source of energy rather than as the main protein component of the diet.
Flax seed cake is obtained after squeezing oil from flax seeds. It contains about 30-35% protein, 5-7% fat and a significant amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for animal health. Flaxseed oil is also rich in mucus, which improves digestion and protects the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract. Despite its beneficial properties, flax seed cake is used less frequently than other types of cake. This is due to the fact that it may contain cyanogenic glycosides, which, if improperly stored or processed, can turn into toxic substances. Therefore, before using flax seed cake, it is necessary to undergo heat treatment in order to neutralize potentially dangerous compounds.
This type of food has its negative sides. All cakes contain a residual amount of fat (up to 7%), which quickly (in 10-12 days) oxidizes and becomes rancid, which reduces the feed value of this fodder. Because of this, the cake cannot be stored for as long without loss of quality as whole grain. It also has a high hygroscopicity and can become damp and deteriorate when stored in conditions of high humidity.
Meal is a product of oil extraction, which is obtained by mechanical extraction of oil, meal is produced by extraction with organic solvents, such as extraction gasoline grade “A” or hexane. This process allows you to extract the maximum amount of oil from oilseeds, leaving behind a meal rich in protein and other nutrients. It is then dried to a moisture content of no more than 12% and often granulated for easy storage and transportation.
Some types of meal, such as soy, cotton and rapeseed, are subjected to heat treatment (toasting) to neutralize harmful substances that may be contained in the raw material. This meal is called toasted and is safe for use in animal feeding.
Sunflower meal is one of the most widespread and demanded types of meal in animal husbandry. It contains B vitamins, vitamin E, as well as minerals such as phosphorus, potassium and magnesium. These components make sunflower meal useful for maintaining the health and productivity of animals.
Soy meal contains up to 45-50% protein, which makes it one of the most nutritious types of meal. Soy meal is also rich in essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine, which are essential for animal growth and development. These amino acids are especially important for young and highly productive animals. In addition, soy meal contains B vitamins, vitamin E, and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron. These components make soybean meal a valuable source of nutrients for all types of farm animals, including poultry, pigs and cattle.
Before feeding, it is recommended to soak the meal or steam it with boiling water to increase its digestibility and reduce the body’s energy expenditure on its breakdown.
Beer pellet is a brewing product, which is the remains of barley or wheat grain left after brewing and separating the beer wort. Externally, the beer pellet resembles a wet porridge, and its composition and nutritional value make it a useful addition to the diet of animals. On average, one kilogram of barley beer pellets contains about 0.24–0.27 feed units and 2.35–2.99 MJ of exchange energy.
However, due to the high humidity and specific properties, the beer pellet quickly loses its properties and deteriorates. Under normal conditions, it is recommended to feed it to animals within 1-2 days after receipt. In the cold season, the shelf life may be slightly extended, but before feeding, the pellet must be heated to room temperature.
For longer-term storage of beer pellets, use:
- drying, which significantly reduces the moisture content of the pellet and increases its shelf life. However, drying requires significant energy costs, which makes it economically impractical in most cases;
- silage, but this process is also fraught with difficulties. The pellet is poorly siloed on its own, so it is mixed with sugar-containing feeds, such as sugar beet pulp, or special silage preparations are used. The siloed pellet becomes suitable for feeding 2 months after laying.
Conclusion
Proper feeding of farm animals is the key to their health, productivity and reproduction. The diet should be balanced and include all the necessary feed groups: coarse, juicy, concentrated and animal feed. Each of these groups plays a role in providing animals with nutrients and maintaining their vital functions. The right combination of these feeds makes it possible to achieve high productivity and economic efficiency in animal husbandry.
