© FAO/Saul Palma

Alternative feed solutions are being sourced to drive sustainability in the livestock sector. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is implementing the project, 'Assessment of locally produced livestock feed ingredients to strengthen the sector’s sustainability'. This initiative aims to reduce dependency on imported feeds by promoting the use of locally sourced ingredients. The project will focus on insect production as an alternative source of high-quality protein for poultry and aquaculture feed.

 Recent developments include participation in the International Feed Regulators Meeting in Atlanta. According to Project Lead and Animal Feed Specialist, Dr. Tanika O’Connor-Dennie, the experience enabled global insights into feed regulations.

 The project is exploring collaboration with Dr. Sean Chen from the University of Georgia to adapt the FeedMixer application for swine and ruminants. This tool will help create optimal feed formulations based on specific nutrient requirements.  Additionally, support is being provided to the Livestock Research Development Unit of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries to address deficiencies in the Animal Nutrition Lab. The collaboration aims to ensure accurate feed ingredient analysis.

 The project is also partnering with the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) to implement a Feed Assessment Tool. This includes the possibility of training JAS officers to use this tool. This outcome will facilitate effective data collection and analysis which is essential for developing tailored feed solutions.

Research on local feed sources has been conducted to inform availability, costs, and other strategic decisions. The nutrient requirements for ruminants and pigs have been calculated and integrated into the feed mixer application, ensuring its efficacy in meeting specific dietary needs

 Next steps include engaging a local statistician to determine the ideal sample size of livestock farmers and continuing stakeholder collaboration to enhance feed formulation and laboratory processes.

 For more information, please contact Animal Feed Specialist, Dr. Tanika O’Connor-Dennie, [email protected]