Collaboration Schothorst Feed Research and Aeres University of Applied Sciences Dronten

Because of current developments in livestock farming, Schothorst Feed Research and Aeres University of Applied Sciences Dronten see opportunities for collaboration in livestock nutrition.

This collaboration is based on a dynamic, mutual learning process and contributes to education, research and delegation of knowledge in the area of livestock nutrition. Three research questions are identified: precision feeding, animal health and environment.  

Precision feeding

There are many developments in the area of information technology, sensor technology, data collection and knowledge on energy and protein requirements of high yielding animals. By combining this information with knowledge of digestion characteristics of feedstuffs and metabolism of animals it will be possible to feed animals more and more on an individual level. Digital data collection and interpretation of feeding, production, health and welfare, can lead to opportunities to optimise nutrient utilisation and efficiency and to prevent nutritional disorders.

Animal health

Society demands lower use of medication, particularly antibiotics, in livestock production. This results in a demand to improve animal health by nutrition, sometimes with feed additives.

Environment

The third area of interest is the environmental impact of livestock production. This environmental impact has a negative impact on the public support of livestock production. With balanced diets and the introduction of circuit systems, the environmental pressure of livestock on the environment can be reduced. The question that needs to be answered is how to decrease undesired excretion by feed.

Schothorst Feed Research and Aeres University of Applied Sciences Dronten are searching for a senior research / lector precision feeding to give an interpretation to the collaboration.