SPECIAL STORY 64 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE March 2022 USING THE FEED SIEVE Method of sampling The most important step for accurate analysis is taking a representative sample (6) from the feeders. Take 5-6 subsamples from different locations, mix them together and reduce the sample size, preferably via a quartering procedure (6). For the quartering procedure, mix the samples, spread them out, split the sample up again in four equal parts and sieve the two opposite quarters (6). Figure 1. example of the feed sieve Method of sieving • Remove the lid and fill the first compartment with one cup of feed. • Bring the lid back on the shaker and make sure it is properly closed. • Turn the sieve, so it stands vertically with the filled compartment at the top. • Shake the sieve firmly. Stop shaking when all the fine particles fell to the last compartment for at least 10 seconds. • Return the sieve sideways and record the values per compartment. • Calculate the percentage by filling in the values in the grey area by using a calculator or Excel • Check if the particle size distribution is according to the recommendations, please find Hendrix Genetics recommendations below as a reference. FURTHER ACTIONS If the particle size distribution is not according to the recommendation, it is necessary to check all the factors which can affect feed particle size: feed manufacturing, transportation from factory to farm and within the farm, storage, feed pans, feeder management and grinding. If the standard of minimum 85% particles between 0.5 and 3.2 mm in mash cannot be achieved for the starter rearing feed (from 0 to approximately 5 weeks of age), it is preferable to use a diet of good quality crumbs or pellets (1). References 1. Nutrition Management Guide. Hendrix Genetics. https:// layinghens.hendrix-genetics.com/en/technical-support/nutrition/ 2. Influence of particle size of the main cereal of the diet on egg production, gastrointestinal tract traits, and body measurements of brown laying hens. Herrera, J., et al. 2017, Poultry Science, pp. 96: 440- 448. 3. Implication of milling methods, thermal treatment, and particle size of feed in layers on mineral digestibility and retention of minerals in egg contents. Hafeez, A., et al. 2015, Poultry Science, pp. 94: 240-248. 4. Effect of Feed Segregation on the Commercial Hen and Egg Quality. Tang, P., Patterson, P.H. and Puri, V.M. 2006, The Journal of Applied Poultry Research, pp. 15: 564-573. 5. The effects of particle size, milling method, and thermal treatment of feed on performance, apparent ileal digestibility, and pH of the digesta in laying hens. Ruhnke, I., et al. 2015, Poultry Science, pp. 94: 692-699. 6. Servi-Tech Laboratories. Feed Sampling Procedures. Servi-Tech Laboratories. [Online] 2019. https://servitechlabs.com/ Services/Feed/FeedSamplingProcedures/tabid/126/Default.aspx Particle size <0,5 mm 0,5 – 1 mm 1,0 – 3,2 mm >3,2 mm Starter and grower Max 10% Max 15% Min 75% Max 0% Developer, pre-lay and layer Max 10% Max 15% Min 70% Max5% About Estella Leentfaar Estella Leentfaar obtained her master’s degree in animal sciences from Wageningen University and Research in 2016. Next to her specialization in animal nutrition and adaptation physiology, Estella holds a European master in Sustainable Animal nutrition and feeding. She started her career at Trouw Nutrition (a Nutreco company), she joined Hendrix Genetics Layers in 2019, currently Estella is part of the Global Technical core team, as one of the nutritionists.
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