Energy Protein Ratios in Ration | Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Science Optional for UPSC PDF Download

Energy-Protein Ratios in Ration

Biological Value of Proteins:

•  Proteins must supply essential amino acids in proportions matching the body's needs. 
• Sources of protein should provide amino acids necessary for forming nitrogenous tissues and compounds. 
• Biological value denotes a protein's ability to offer required amino acids for body functions. 

Differences in Protein Requirements: 

• Protein sources vary in biological value for maintaining rats and humans. 
• Amino acid needs differ for maintenance versus rapid growth in rats. 

Considerations for Protein Requirements: 

• Protein intake influencing 'deposit protein' levels in tissues. 
• Excess protein can lead to wastage and increased workload on the kidneys for urea excretion. 

Maintaining Protein-Calorie Ratio: 

• Optimal protein-calorie balance enhances energy utilization efficiency. 
• Excessive protein intake might strain kidneys and is viewed as potentially harmful. 

Metabolism of High Protein Levels: 

• Body can metabolize high protein levels without adverse effects. 
• Evidence suggests that prolonged consumption of high protein levels is manageable without negative consequences on production or health.

Protein Ratios in Animal Feeding

Importance of Protein Ratios in Animal Nutrition: 

• Animals require a certain amount of protein in their diet to function properly. 
• Variation in the quality of protein exists in different types of animal feed. 
• The protein ratio in animal feed should be higher than the minimum required to ensure adequate protein reserves and maintain a good protein-to-calorie balance.

Protein-Energy Relationship in Poultry Feeding: 

• In modern poultry feeding, the focus is on the protein-energy ratio. 
• Chickens can adjust their energy intake by regulating the amount of feed they consume. 
• As the energy content of the diet decreases, chickens tend to eat more to meet their energy needs.

Defining Protein Requirements: 

• Protein requirements are accurately determined based on specific physiological functions. 
• The energy requirement must be specified along with the protein level to establish the energy-protein ratio.

Energy-Protein Ratio for Different Types of Chickens

Starting Chicks: 

• Recommended 20% crude protein and 2640 kcal ME/kg for optimal growth. 
• Calorie-protein ratio of 1:132 is suggested for starting chicks. 

Layers: 

• Maximum egg production and feed efficiency at 18% protein and 2850 kcal ME/kg. 

Broilers: 

• Optimal growth observed at 23% protein with a c/p ratio of 135. 
• Some studies suggest a 130:1 c/p ratio is ideal for broilers.

Impact of Seasons on Energy-Protein Ratios

Summer: 

• Optimal protein and energy content for starters, pullets, and layers in summer. 
• Higher protein and energy levels required during hot weather. 

Winter: 

• Adjustments needed in protein content for starters, pullets, and layers in winter. 
• Higher c/p ratio required in winter compared to summer for optimal performance.

By understanding and adjusting protein ratios in animal feed, we can ensure the well-being and productivity of animals in different seasons and stages of growth.