Knowledge level of cattle feed manufactures of Punjab

A total of 141 cattle feed manufacturers (FM) of different districts of Punjab were surveyed regarding their knowledge of animal nutrition. Less than fifty percent (47.5%) were aware that protein ingredients are having at least 18% or more crude protein level. 39.71, 43.26, 54.60 and 39.71 percent respondent were aware regarding the percentage crude protein in mustard, cottonseed, soybean and groundnut cakes respectively. Less than 30 percent feed manufacturers were aware off the seasonal Rabi and Khariff fodders, qualities and their use in fodder preservation. Coming to knowledge level of concentrate –their actual business, only 26.95% feed manufacturers knew regarding the two types of concentrate as per BIS recommendations. 48,93 and 63.12% FM have the knowledge of supplementation of mineral mixture and salt at the rate of 2 and 1% respectively. Only 45.39% respondents were using the iodized salt in the concentrate.56.02% feed millers were using the mineral mixture in the feed and 36.87% responded that they were using the chelated minerals in the concentrate. 61.70% FM revealed that they do not purchased FCI auctioned seeds with label “ Not fit for human consumption only for animal use” against the 9.92% who responded positively. 72.34% FM were using molasses and 68.08% were using it within the prescribed limit. Only 35.46% respondents were aware about bypass fat/bypass protein concept and only 13.47% are using it. The above picture reveals that the knowledge level of feed manufacturer of Punjab is very poor, so there is dire need to acquaint them with the correct and scientific knowledge through training to boost the dairy sector further.