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Nutrients

Animal nutrition is one of the primary areas of study within Animal Science. Dietary nutrients support maintenance and productive functions, so providing the proper amount and proportions of the nutrients are essential to achieving optimal productivity. In addition, efficient use of nutrients in feedstuffs is essential to maintain profitability. Feed costs account for at least 50%, as with dairy cattle, and up to 75%, as with poultry and swine, of the total cost of production.

Nutrition is the study of processes in which an animal consumes, digests, absorbs, and metabolizes the components of a feedstuff to promote maintenance and productive functions. Nutrients are the specific elements or compounds that can be digested, absorbed, and metabolized to support life’s processes. It is essential to provide the appropriate amounts and proportions of the nutrients in the diet. Finally, the essential nutrients are species and physiological-state specific. Therefore, nutrient requirements and subsequent recommendations vary by species and physiological state. For example, the nutrient requirements of a pregnant sow differ from a finishing barrow.

Module II will focus on the six fundamental nutrients in animal nutrition. The six fundamental nutrients are:

1. Water
2. Carbohydrates
3. Proteins
4. Lipids or fats
5. Minerals
6. Vitamins

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