Compare up to 3 feeds by bag price, dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), and optional metabolisable energy (ME).
Use this calculator to compare livestock feeds using values often shown on feed bags, labels, or adverts. It helps show whether the cheapest bag is actually the best value.
Enter bag price, bag weight, moisture and crude protein (CP) for up to three feeds. This calculator compares cost per kilogram as fed, per kilogram dry matter (DM) and per kilogram crude protein (CP) so South African farmers can see which bag buys more nutrition per rand — not just the lowest shelf price at the co-op.
| Feed | Bag price | Bag size | Cost per kg as fed | Dry matter (DM) | Crude protein (CP) | Cost per kg dry matter (DM) | Cost per kg crude protein (CP) | Metabolisable energy (ME) | Cost per unit ME |
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This calculator compares feed value only. It does not decide safe feeding rates or mixing instructions. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, especially where urea or non-protein nitrogen (NPN) is included.
Enter up to three feeds with bag size, bag price in rand, moisture, crude protein (CP) and optional metabolisable energy (ME) from the label or advert.
The calculator compares cost per kilogram as fed, per kilogram dry matter (DM), per kilogram crude protein (CP) and per unit of energy where entered. It highlights the best value in each column.
Results compare feed value only. They do not set safe feeding rates. Check figures against feed labels, supplier advice and your nutritionist before changing rations.
Cost per kg as fed (R/kg) = bag price ÷ bag size (kg)
Dry matter % (DM) = 100 − moisture % (g/kg moisture is converted to % first)
Cost per kg dry matter (R/kg DM) = cost per kg as fed ÷ (dry matter % ÷ 100)
Cost per kg crude protein (R/kg CP) = cost per kg DM ÷ (crude protein % ÷ 100)
Cost per unit metabolisable energy (ME) = cost per kg as fed ÷ ME value (when ME is entered in MJ/kg)
Bag A costs R420 for 40 kg at 12% moisture (88% dry matter) and 22% crude protein (CP). Bag B costs R390 for 40 kg at 18% moisture (82% dry matter) and 20% crude protein (CP). Bag B looks cheaper per bag, but Bag A delivers more dry matter and crude protein per rand when you compare cost per kilogram dry matter (DM) and cost per kilogram crude protein (CP).
A lower bag price can hide lower dry matter (DM) or crude protein (CP). A slightly more expensive bag may deliver more usable protein or dry matter per rand spent.
Dry matter (DM) is the feed left after moisture is removed. This calculator estimates dry matter (DM) as 100% minus the moisture percentage shown on the label or advert.
Crude protein (CP) is a standard feed label value. It helps compare protein content between products, but it does not by itself tell you whether the protein is safe or suitable for your animals.
Not every lick, premix or supplement shows metabolisable energy (ME) on the bag. Enter it only when the value is shown, using the same unit as the label.
Use the comparison to shortlist products before buying. Confirm feeding rates, mixing instructions and suitability with your feed supplier, nutritionist or veterinarian.
For cattle finishing, use the Cattle Feedlot Calculator to estimate feed intake, weight gain, days on feed and projected profit.
During finishing, track pen progress with the Cattle Weight Gain and Feeder Progress Calculator.
Planning poultry rations? Try the Poultry Feed Calculator for broiler, layer and pullet feed programmes.
For lick intake and herd supplement cost, use the Livestock Supplement and Lick Calculator.
Comparing hay or wrapped bales? Use the Hay Bale Cost Calculator to estimate bale requirements and feeding costs.
Dry matter (DM) is estimated as 100% minus the moisture percentage. If moisture is entered as grams per kilogram (g/kg), it is converted to a percentage first.
Use the value shown on the label or advert. Choose percentage (%) or grams per kilogram (g/kg). The calculator converts g/kg to percentage by dividing by 10.
It shows how much you pay for each kilogram of crude protein (CP) on a dry matter (DM) basis. That helps compare products with different moisture and protein levels.
Only when the feed label or advert shows metabolisable energy (ME). If no feed has an energy value entered, energy columns stay hidden.
No. It compares value only. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, especially where urea or non-protein nitrogen (NPN) is included.