What can I do to reduce my feed bill? One option is to maximize feed utilization through processing. Grinding (particle size reduction) is an integral part of feed processing that increases the digestibility of nutrients. The smaller the particles, the more significant the improvement in digestion and therefore feed conversion. However, there are practical limits, as very fine feed can cause bridging and flow issues to the feeder, as well as gastric ulcers in pigs. To measure particle size of your feed, you can send samples to the Canadian Feed Research Centre or another lab, or purchase a set of three sieves and a scale to measure it yourself.
The single most crucial factor affecting particle size is your grinder. Maintain your system routinely. Your best option is to test your particle size, check the condition of your hammer mill or grinder and adjust if you need to.
Particle size (full article)
