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What is compound feed?
According to the Act that regulates the Farm Feed manufacturing industry “Act 36/1947” a complete animal feed is defined as “an animal feed which contains all the necessary nutrients in the correct quantities and proportions for a given physiological need of the animal as recognised by the Registrar and which meets the total daily requirements of an animal”.
Compound feed is a scientifically formulated mixture of raw materials and additives designed to meet the nutritional needs of livestock across all species and production systems. It goes far beyond just mixing ingredients—it’s about precision, consistency, and supporting animal health and performance cost-effectively and sustainably.
How is compound feed made?
Formulation:
Animal nutritionists develop feed formulas based on species-specific requirements. They use sophisticated software to balance energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals to support growth, reproduction, and immunity.
Ingredient selection:
Locally sourced and imported raw materials are selected based on availability, quality, and cost. Ingredients must be safe, free of contaminants, and meet nutritional standards.
Mixing & milling:
Ingredients are cleaned, ground to the correct particle size, and then mixed using high-precision equipment. Depending on the species, the feed may be further processed into pellets, crumbs, or mash for optimal intake.
Quality assurance:
Each batch undergoes stringent testing to ensure nutritional composition, feed safety, and consistency. Mycotoxin screening, moisture checks, and pathogen testing are all routine.
Why it matters
Compound feed is the cornerstone of modern livestock farming. When well-formulated, it maximizes feed efficiency by ensuring optimal nutrient uptake, supports overall animal health and welfare. This enhances farm productivity through consistent performance outcomes. In South Africa, where input costs and climate variability can challenge producers, compound feed helps ensure reliable performance in both intensive and extensive production systems.
South Africa produces between 12-13 million tons of compound feed annually, making feed manufacturing one of the country’s largest agricultural sectors.
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