Pellets vs. Mash Feed for Turkeys: Are there any benefits?
Research indicates that pelleted feed is superior to mash feed for turkeys, with the primary disadvantage being the higher cost. Pelleted feed offers better weight gain, less nutrient sorting, and improved transportability.
Nutrient Sorting Issues
While the ingredients in both feed forms are typically the same, the intake of these ingredients by turkeys can differ. Mash feed requires careful attention to particle size to avoid issues with digestion and nutrient sorting. Pellets, if not formed properly, can also face similar issues, but this is less likely.
Pelleting Process
The pelleting process involves conditioning mash feed with heat and moisture to form pellets, which must then be cooled properly to prevent crumbling. Properly formed pellets reduce the likelihood of turkeys sorting out specific ingredients, ensuring a balanced diet.
Holmen Pellet Durability
Using a Holmen pellet durability tester can help ensure the quality, consistency and durability of the pellets. This tester measures the Pellet Durability Index (PDI), which indicates how well the pellets can withstand handling and transportation. High PDI values mean the pellets are less likely to crumble, ensuring that turkeys receive a consistent and balanced diet.
Transportability
Pelleted feed is easier to transport with less spillage and dust, making it more efficient to handle both in the mill and on the farm. Pellets also flow better through feeding systems.
Impact on Live Production
Studies have shown that turkeys fed a pelleted diet gain more weight compared to those fed a mash diet, particularly between 8 and 12 weeks of age. Although the weight gain difference decreases with higher nutrient content, turkeys still tend to be heavier on a pelleted diet. Additionally, turkeys eating pelleted feed may spend less time at the feeder.
.For further reading on the topic of pelleting, we can recommend the following detailed article:
Article: – Pellet quality in a compound feed factory – Thoughts from Feed Design Lab
