Application:
• Conversion ratio in sustainable food production practices
Feed conversion ratios measure the efficiency of an animal in converting the food provided (feed mass) into a desired output
- Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) = mass of feed ÷ mass of desired output
- The lower the feed conversion ratio the more efficient the method of food production
A low feed conversion ratio is obtained by minimising the potential losses of energy for the animal stock:
- Restricting animal movement (e.g. battery hens) will reduce energy lost to cell respiration
- Optimising feeding practices so that food is ingested and digested more effectively
- Slaughtering animals at a young age (older animals tend to grow more slowly and have a higher FCR)
While more efficient food production practices lower costs, there are a number of potential ethical issues that may be involved
Feed Conversation Ratios for Different Livestock
