Observation

Candidates performance in this question was poor. Majority of those who attempted the question could only define ration but could not explain how physiological status, age of animal etc influence feed formulation. Most of the candidates failed to explain sequentially the preparation of palm kernel cake while many could only mention one difference between broiler starter and finisher marsh.
The expected answers include:         
1. (a)   Explanation of the term Ration
            It is the amount of feed/diet that is given to animals daily/ 24 hour period

(b)       Explanation of how factors affect feed formulation
(i)        Physiological status of animal
Animals of different physiological state will require different types of diet  
e.g.
-           Healthy animals need balanced, production or maintenance ration
-           poor state of an animal requires a fortified feed
-           pregnant animals
-           lactating animals
(ii)       Age of animal
-           Animals at different stages of growth will require different formulation of diet
-           older animals require lower nutrients
-           younger animals require higher nutrients

(ii)       Purpose of production

• Different breeds require different nutrient composition in the feed
• Feed content will depend on the purpose of production which might be for lactation, egg production, wool production
• Fattening/beef/broiler growth will require higher energy and protein in the feed for efficient production
• Higher energy and protein are required in the feed for traction, draught, work and transportation of animals
  
  (iii)      Availability of feed ingredients
  -           determines which ingredient to use
  -           determines the nutrient content
  -           determines level of the nutrient in the feed
  -           determines the cost of the feed
  -           determines quantity/amount to be produced 
  
  
  (c)        Preparation of Palm kernel cake
  -           seeds of palm kernel are collected
  -           the seeds are roasted
  -           the seeds are crushed/grounded
  -           the ground seeds are pressed to remove the oil
  -           the residue is pressed to form the cake

 (d)      Differences between Broiler Starter Mash and Broiler Finisher Mash