Pellet Quality in Animal Feeds

Pelleting costs money, and better pellets cost a little more. Payback comes in the form of convenience in handling the feed and more efficient use of the feed by the animal. Improved efficiency is due in part to heat processing which reduces pathogens and makes starches more digestible. A significant portion of the improvement is related to the physical form of the pellet. Durable pellets reduce waste, reduce segregation, improve palatability, and allow larger meals to be eaten in less time. All these factors contribute to optimized feed efficiency. This paper will review experiments that have been performed in the U.S. which quantify the benefit of pellet quality in various species. In addition, methods of monitoring pellet quality will be reviewed and compared.