Feed Analysis

establishing the content of nutrients and biologically active substances in feeds; evaluation of the quality of feeds.

Feed analysis includes determination of chemical composition, physical properties, and botanical composition, as well as microscopic examination for weed content and contamination by fungi and pests. Chemical analysis involves calculating the amount of moisture, dry matter, nitrogen-free extract, and crude protein, fat, cellulose, and ash. The composition of carbohydrates, fat, nitrogenous and mineral substances, and vitamins is also determined. Chemical analysis and microscopic and microbiological investigations are carried out in agrochemical and veterinary laboratories. Feeds are evaluated on farms organoleptically on the basis of such external characteristics as color, shape, odor, taste, and moisture content.