From crude protein to digestible amino acids
For pigs and poultry, crude protein itself is not a requirement. What matters is the supply of digestible amino acids in precise ratios. Historically, piglet diets were formulated with high crude protein levels to meet limiting amino acid requirements, resulting in excess non-limiting amino acids. This oversupply is inefficient and increases the risk of digestive disturbances, including post-weaning diarrhoea. Modern feeding strategies therefore focus on reduced-protein diets, formulated on standardised ileal digestible (SID) amino acids, in line with precision nutrition, improved gut health and reduced antibiotic use.
Digestibility defines true nutritional value
Only amino acids that are digested and absorbed in the small intestine contribute to growth and protein synthesis. Poorly digestible protein reaching the large intestine promotes undesirable microbial activity, increasing toxin production and compromising gut integrity. High ileal digestibility reduces this risk and improves feed efficiency, a critical factor for weaned piglets with immature digestive systems.
Ileal amino acid digestibility as the gold standard
Research led by Professor Hans Stein (University of Illinois) has demonstrated that in vivo methods are essential for accurate amino acid digestibility assessment. Digestibility is therefore measured at the end of the small intestine, prior to microbial fermentation, using standardised ileal digestibility (SID) as the most reliable indicator of protein quality.
High-quality plant-based protein concentrates
Joosten Protein Concentrate 56 (JPC 56) and Fishmeal Replacer Omega 3 (FMR Ω3) are high-quality, plant-based protein concentrates developed specifically for young animal nutrition. In vivo trials showed that the SID of crude protein and indispensable amino acids was significantly higher than that of Super Prime fish meal (P < 0.001). These results clearly demonstrate that excellent digestibility and amino acid availability are not exclusive to animal-derived proteins.
In addition, high digestibility reduces nitrogen excretion, offering both environmental and economic benefits.
Nutrient-driven feed formulation is essential
Effective feed formulation requires a shift in perspective: not which ingredient should be used, but which nutrients are required, and which ingredients can deliver them consistently and efficiently. A nutrient-driven approach reduces formulation risk, increases flexibility in volatile raw material markets, and supports healthier animals with improved performance.
Read the full article – A Nutrient-Driven Approach to Feed Formulation for Monogastric Animals