Food Science and Technology

Livestock Nutrition

Livestock nutrition is primarily concerned with six different food groups, all of which serve a specific purpose in maintaining livestock health, weight, and product viability:

No food group is necessarily more important than the other, but many producers concern themselves the most with protein-rich feeds, as they tend to be the most expensive feeds to acquire, distribute, and store.

• Carbohydrates are composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen and provide energy to animals
•  Proteins contain nitrogen that supplies rumen microorganism requirements and provides another source of energy to animals
•  Fats have a higher ratio of calories per unit of weight than carbohydrates and sugars and can increase energy density in feed portions
•  Water is a basic requirement for all animals to survive and thrive
•  Vitamins are organic nutrients that increase an animal’s resistance to diseases while also help maintain body functions
•  Minerals are inorganic elements that aid in maintaining health, and supporting growth and reproduction