Novel feed processing methods of cold pelleting and fine ground corn segregation to maximize feed efficiency, nutrient utilization and economic return

Swine producers continue to grind to extremely fine particle sizes, which inherently produces a significant portion of the diet that is fine powder. The fine particles (< 150 microns) create problems in the feed manufacturing and delivery processes and feeder management at the farm. Removal of the fine particles will improve the flow characteristics of the ground grains and feed. However, the fine particles must be incorporated back into the feed at some point during the manufacturing process to prevent feed mill shrink. One process used to change the physical form of a meal is pelleting. Traditional pelleting, however, requires a substantial investment in equipment, both for production of the actual pellets and for the steam necessary for the conditioning process. Cold pelleting is an alternative method of pelleting, which does not require the use of steam or a boiler. This somewhat novel technology provides an economical and practical option for pelleting the fine particles removed from the ground grains or even complete diets. This study was designed to evaluate the economic returns of utilizing the novel feed processing technology to improve feed efficiency with direct field application.