2010-2015 annual nutrient trend analysis for us and argentina soybean meal in the philippines

The study was done to describe trends and compare average annual nutrient analyses of US and Argentine soybean meal (SBM) and to discuss possible factors affecting these changes. Results of chemical analyses for the two ingredients from 2010 to 2015 were obtained from a private analytical laboratory in Batangas, Philippines and were subjected to descriptive statistical analysis. Results showed that the average annual nutrient contents of the two feedstuffs were fluctuating and exhibited high variability between and within the feed ingredient. However, generally, the US SBM had better and relatively more stable nutrient profile than Argentine SBM, particularly for protein solubility, urease activity, ash and calcium contents. The identified factors that may have affected changes in nutrient composition include differences in the trait considered for soybean breeding in the two sources, environmental condition in the planting area, and soybean seed processing. High nutrient value (i.e. protein content and quality) was the major trait considered for US SBM while higher yield was the main focus for Argentine SBM. In addition, the planting strategies for soybeans are being implemented in the US as part of adaptation to either severe flooding or drought. The present study indicated that the two ingredients varies considerably in nutrient contents, therefore it is important to use results of actual chemical analyses in feed formulation to optimize animal performance. Key words: nutrients, protein, soybean meal