Mixer Efficiency in Feed samples
May 24, 2018
Mixer Efficiency in Feed samples
The main purpose of measuring mixer performance is to assure that an animal receives all of the feed nutrients with the right proportion on a daily basis. Assessing mixer efficiency is critical, as high or concentrated feed ingredients may be toxic. Getting your mixer samples tested for coefficient of variation (CV) is a regulatory requirement from CFIA.
In order to get the most accurate testing results for mixer efficiency, we recommend to follow these guidelines:
- Sampling- Sample should represent the feed is distributed to an animal from the mixer. Use a scoop to collect the desired sample volume. Store the sample in a sealed Ziploc bag or in a container. Collect randomly 10 samples of the finished feed.
- Sample size- Collect 100- 150 grams of each sample of a Ration or Mineral samples. For Total Mixed Rations (TMRs) collect 500 grams of each sample for testing.
- Frequency- make sure you get mixer efficiency done: within a maximum period of 90 days after the installation of a new or replacement mixer, after a major repair or modification that could impact on the functioning of the mixer, or periodically, but at a minimum once every one to three years depending on the risk profile of the facility
Feeds are considered homogenous when CV for the batch is:
- no greater than 5% for dilute drug premixes
- no greater than 10% for micro or macro premixes and supplements
- no greater than 15% for complete feeds and total mixed rations
Based on your feed ingredients in the feed ration, decide if you need to test for Macro minerals; Ca, P, K, Mg, Na, or for Micro minerals Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn. Our packages are designed this way, so you can choose to test one mineral from a group, or two or more minerals from the same or both groups. We are an accredited laboratory in Mineral analysis.
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