Livestock Feed Optimization Model (LFOM): A new tool based on Linear Programming for formulating least cost rations for poultry

Abstract

A model, Livestock feed Optimization Model (LFOM) based on Linear programming (LP) was developed. The essence of the model was for cost minimization in formulating poultry diets. The model was used to formulate a least cost ration for laying birds. 'The performance of 75 Haco Black point of lay birds on the least cost ration (LCR) so formulated and two commercial diets was compared. Feed intake was significantly (P < 0.05) lower for birds on the LCR. Birds on the LCR also had better efficiency (P< 0.05) hence higher hen-day production. Birds on the commercial diets had higher (P <0.05) egg weight than those on the LCR. Egg shell thickness and egg surface index did not differ significantly between the treatment diets. The LCR costed N 6.40/Kg less than the commercial diet. This comes to N160.00 less for a 25kg bag or PM640, 04B less per ton of feed Weekly retinues: and licit from egg sale near higher for birds on the LCR than for those on the commended diets. Results showed that the B [, XXBM so developed is an effective and flexible tool for minimizing cost or maiming prof3 in poultry production.