Feed Conversion Records: As-Fed and Dry-Matter Inputs Cannot Be Mixed; illustrative quantitative diagram
Define the quantity before calculating
Water content can change the mass of feed without adding the same amount of dry nutrients. An as-fed ratio and a dry-matter ratio therefore answer different questions. Record the basis of feed consumption and avoid substituting feed delivered for feed actually consumed unless the reporting convention explicitly accounts for losses.
Use Feed Conversion Ratio Calculator with the units and the basis stated on its form. Check what each input represents before carrying the output into another record.
Read the model explicitly
FCR = feed consumed / biomass gain, using the same period and declared feed basis.
The Livestock calculators group sits within Biology calculators. Keep a measured observation distinguishable from a hypothetical input when moving between its tools.
A worked unit check
| Input as labeled on the tool | Illustrative value |
|---|---|
| Feed actually consumed during period (kg) | 200 |
| Biomass gain on the declared reporting basis (kg) | 100 |
| Basis of the feed mass |
| Output from the illustrative inputs | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Feed conversion ratio (as-fed feed) | 2 | kg feed per kg gain |
Record the original input and its unit with this result. Recalculate when the measurement basis changes; changing a unit label after calculation does not convert the quantity. More decimal places do not remove sampling or measurement uncertainty.
A related quantity
Dry Matter Calculator addresses a related part of the task. Check its own input definition before carrying a number across.
Continue with Biomass Gain in FCR: Record Removals and Mortality Before Comparing Batches for the other part of this measurement question.
Return to GreenCalc for other subjects. Keep raw observations, chosen assumptions and calculated quantities identifiable so a later revision does not overwrite the basis of the original record.
By GreenCalc · Updated 2026-11-06