Hydrolyzed Feather Meal

Hydrolyzed feather meal is an ingredient used in animal feed production, especially for poultry and aquaculture. It is produced from poultry feathers that have been processed to release their nutrients and make them more available for use in animal feeds. The hydrolysis process involves applying heat and pressure to the feathers to break down the proteins into smaller fragments, increasing digestibility and nutritional value.​

Description

Hydrolyzed feather meal is a concentrated source of proteins and amino acids, which are fundamental for animal growth and health. Hydrolyzing the feathers increases the bioavailability of amino acids, meaning they are more easily absorbed and utilized by the body. Additionally, hydrolysis can improve the overall digestibility of the protein in feather meal, helping to reduce the amount of protein lost in animal feces.​

Another benefit of hydrolyzed feather meal is that it is rich in minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and sulfur. These minerals are important for bone health and egg production in laying hens. Hydrolyzed feather meal may also contain small amounts of fats and vitamins.​

Overall, hydrolyzed feather meal is a popular choice in the animal feed industry due to its high protein content and low ash (less than 1%). It is also commonly used as an alternative to other protein sources, such as fish meal or soybean meal, due to its lower cost and abundant availability.​