Feed Value Comparison Explained
The cheapest bag on the shelf is not always the cheapest feed. To compare value properly, you need dry matter, crude protein and — where it matters — energy content, all weighed against price per bag or per ton.
How do you compare feed value between two products?
Line up price per bag, bag weight, dry matter (DM) percentage and crude protein on a DM basis. Calculate cost per kilogram of dry matter and cost per unit of protein — not price per bag alone. The feed value calculator does this side by side for concentrate, lick and protein supplements.
Why farmers compare feed value
Suppliers offer different bag sizes, moisture levels and protein specs. A lick, concentrate or protein supplement might cost more per bag but deliver more crude protein per kilogram of dry matter. On the other hand, an expensive feed with only marginally better specs may not justify the premium on your farm.
Comparison is especially useful when maize price moves, when you switch between winter and summer rations, or when a neighbour recommends a product that is not available from your usual depot.
What to line up side by side
- Price per bag — what you actually pay delivered or collected.
- Bag weight — confirm whether it is 25 kg, 40 kg or another pack size.
- Dry matter percentage — from the label or analysis sheet.
- Crude protein on dry matter basis — standard on most commercial tags.
- Metabolisable energy (optional) — useful when comparing energy concentrates; not always printed on every product.
From there, calculate cost per kilogram of dry matter and cost per unit of protein. That shows which product buys more nutrition per rand.
What comparison does not tell you
Value on paper does not replace palatability, mineral balance or suitability for the animal class. A cheap protein source that animals refuse is not a bargain. Phosphorus, trace minerals and medication rules (where applicable) still need to fit your programme.
Always read the full label and speak to your nutritionist before changing lactating, growing or finishing rations.
Practical tip for depot shopping
Photograph feed tags at the co-op or take spec sheets from your rep. Enter the same fields for two or three options in the Feed Value Calculator before you load the bakkie. Five minutes at the desk can save a season of overspend.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the cheapest feed bag not always the best value?
Lower dry matter, smaller bag weight or weaker crude protein can mean you pay more per kilogram of actual nutrient even when the shelf price looks lower.
What figures do you need to compare two feeds fairly?
Price per bag, bag weight, dry matter percentage and crude protein on a dry matter basis. Metabolisable energy helps when comparing energy concentrates.
What is cost per kilogram of dry matter?
Divide price per bag by kilograms of dry matter in the bag. That shows what you pay for actual feed matter after removing water content.
Does feed value comparison replace a nutritionist?
No. Value on paper does not cover palatability, mineral balance or suitability for the animal class. Read the full label and check major ration changes with your nutritionist.
These guides and calculators are planning tools only. Check results against your farm records, feed labels, supplier prices and professional advice from your nutritionist, veterinarian or financial adviser where needed.