Additives and a lack of key nutrients in meat and egg production has raised concern over food safety in recent years. But when you feed livestock wholesome, natural food, they yield higher quality products. Healthy livestock feed is the key to a safer and more profitable farming industry. The following guide explains what exactly makes livestock feed healthy.

The Qualities of Healthy Livestock Feed

What Does Livestock Need to Be Healthy?

Livestock feed is primarily a well-balanced mix of ingredients and supplements that each serve a different purpose. Concentrated vitamins and minerals, wheat, corn, sorghum, and mold inhibitors are a few of the most common elements. Feed ingredients cover vital nutrients, while supplements are added to improve and maintain animal health. The ratio of each element will vary depending on the animal, stage of life, and production requirements. There is no standard or best mix for all livestock, and you will need to consider how every ingredient and supplement will affect your animals.

How Does Healthy Livestock Feed Help Animals?

Nutritious livestock feed will enhance animal health, as well as meat and egg production. Every component of a good feed, without filler, helps livestock in a unique way. Proteins like soybean meal and carbohydrates like wheat are significant energy sources. Vitamins build up the immune system to fight against disease, while minerals assist in growth and reproduction. A good mix benefits the health of your livestock.

Is There a Difference Between Organic & Non-GMO?

With the proliferation of organic and non-GMO labels, you may be wondering what the differences between the two are. Is one healthier than the other? To find the answer, you should first know what each term refers to. Non-GMO feeds contain no genetically modified (GMO) grains, but they have been treated with pesticides. Organic feeds, on the other hand, are never grown using pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, or genetic modification. They are often considered the most “natural” feed. Because of the lower yield due to pests, however, organic feeds can be costly. The pros and cons to both will depend upon your needs and circumstances, so you should choose whichever will benefit your livestock the most.

Whether you’re a farmer or the proud owner of a backyard chicken coop, Gregg Farm Services carries a wide selection of healthy livestock feed. This Baxter County, AR, farm supply and feed store specializes in custom feed that meet your specific nutritional requirements. Their dedicated team members mix a variety of house blends personally, and provide name brand feed from Nutrena, Purina and ADM. Contact them at (870) 481-5165 to discuss your livestock feed needs, or browse their website to learn more about what they have to offer.