Common feeding errors in applied animal nutrition

Feeding errors at the farm level can undermine even the best-designed products, resulting in inconsistent performance, wasted resources and reduced profitability.

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The success of any feed program depends not only on the quality of the formulation and manufacturing but also on how it is implemented on the farm. Feeding errors at the farm level can undermine even the best-designed products, resulting in inconsistent performance, wasted resources and reduced profitability. Addressing these errors is essential to ensuring animals receive the nutrition they need to thrive.

One common issue is inaccurate feed mixing. Poorly mixed feed can cause uneven distribution of nutrients, leading to some animals consuming too much or too little. This is often due to insufficient mixing time, poorly calibrated equipment or incorrect ingredient proportions. For example, in total mixed ration (TMR) systems, uneven mixing can leave some portions of the feed deficient in energy or protein, affecting animal performance.

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