Introduction

• Feed are the edible materials which are ingested by the animals and are capable of being digested, absorbed, and utilized in the animal body and are nontoxic.
• The constituents of food are the nutrients. Nutrients may be defined as group of chemical compound (protein, carbohydrate, fat, etc.) or elements (Na, Cl, etc.), which are essential for growth and development, maintenance, production and reproduction. Water proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals and vitamins are well-recognized feed nutrients.

Functions of feed

• It provides necessary elements for repairing wear and tear of the body.
• It provides raw materials for synthesis of the body tissue in growth.
• It provides nutrients serving as a source of energy for vital process in the body, growth, work or production.
• It provides nutrient for generating energy for maintaining body temperature.
• It provides raw materials for the biosynthesis of milk, production of meat egg or wool as the case may be.
• It provides immunity against various diseases.
• It helps to remove constipation.
• It provides psychological satisfaction to the animals

Ration: – A ration is the feed allowed for a given animal during a day of 24 hours. The feed may be given at a time or in portions at intervals.

Balance ration: – A balanced ration, which provides the essential nutrients to the animal in such proportion and amounts, that are required for the proper nourishment of the particular animal for 24 hours.