Selection for Improved Feed Efficiency

There is no doubt that feed costs are a substantial portion of the total costs associated with growing animals. Anderson and others (2005) estimated feed costs accounts for 66% of costs in calf-fed systems and 77% in yearling finishing systems. The ability to improve the utilization of nutrients has tremendous potential to improve profitability. Fox and others (2001) estimated that a 10% improvement in performance (gain) would increase profit by 18%, while a 10% improvement in efficiency could improve profit by upwards of 43%. Weaber (2011) estimated that a 10% improvement in feed efficiency (assumed to be a 2 lb. reduction in RFI) across the entire feedlot sector would equate to $1.2 Billion in reduced feed costs