Building a ration: energy, protein and fibre feeds

A ration is a set of feeds that together give an animal energy, protein and fibre in the right balance. Each feed does a different job.

Energy feeds

Maize and cracked grains and cassava are the main energy sources. They are digested quickly and supply the calories for growth and milk. Too much of them in a ruminant ration can upset the rumen.

Protein feeds

Soybean meal and cottonseed meal supply protein. They are the most expensive part of most rations, so using them where they are needed and no more is where the money is saved.

Fibre feeds

Husks, shells and the fibre in by-products keep the rumen working. Cattle, sheep and goats need fibre to chew and digest, and some of it can come from cheap by-products.

Where palm kernel meal fits

Palm kernel meal gives fibre, energy and some protein in one ingredient. In a ruminant ration it can replace part of the maize and part of the soybean, with the balance of amino acids kept in check. Build the ration by weight and by analysis, and ask a nutritionist to check it.