Simple Feeding Tip #3: Look Beyond Percentages

When comparing feeds, don’t stop at the protein percentage, or even the price tag.

Take a closer look at the ingredient list and ask yourself one simple question:
“What else will I need to buy to make this a complete feeding program?”

It’s easy to compare two bags of feed and assume that as long as the percentages are the same, the cheaper one is the better deal. But most of the time that lower price comes with hidden costs.

Many basic feeds are designed to provide calories and protein, but they may leave you adding extras like:
🧂 Salt
🌊 Kelp
🌱 Extra loose minerals
🥚 Oyster shell for laying hens
🍎 Apple cider vinegar or probiotics for digestive support
💊 Vitamins or extra amino acids to fill nutritional gaps

Before long, that “cheap” feed may cost more than you expected, not just in dollars, but also in the time it takes to measure, mix, and keep all those extra products on hand. That’s not to say those products don’t have value. In fact, many of them can be excellent tools when used intentionally or during times of increased nutritional demand.

But when you’re comparing feeds, make sure you’re comparing the complete feeding program, not just the protein percentage or any one piece of information.

A premium feed often costs more because it includes ingredients and nutrients that would otherwise need to be purchased separately. We use high-quality ingredients, organic mineral sources, and carefully balanced formulations designed to support long-term health and peak performance without the need for “extras”.

Here’s a simple way to compare feeds:
✔ Compare the ingredient list – not just the guaranteed analysis.
✔ Ask what mineral program is recommended alongside the feed, or if it’s included.
✔ Consider whether you’ll need additional ingredients to meet your animals’ needs.
✔ Factor in feed waste, palatability, freshness, and overall animal performance, not just the initial purchase price.

Sometimes the least expensive bag is the most expensive feeding program. Even if it covers the bare basics of your animal’s nutrition, it will often cost you in animal health over the long term. That’s more vet visits, added supplements, or even animal mortality.

Sometimes spending a little more up front saves money later, simplifies chores, and gives your animals more complete nutrition from the very first scoop. That’s what peace on the homestead feels like.
Get the best value from every bite – all in one feeds designed the way nature intended.

💬 When you’re shopping for feed, what matters most to you: price, ingredients, or performance?