Animal proteins and some rendered fats have been used globally for many years in poultry feed. In fact, all protein and fat sources have been used and continue to be used in significant amounts all over the world, taking into account their relative values compared to other protein sources (e.g. soybean meal). Products currently being utilized include ruminant and poultry meat meal, as well as blood products from these proteins, rendered fat and feather meal. In addition, today, “whole hen meal” made from spent laying hens has begun to be produced. Each of these products has been successfully used in various rations given to broilers and turkeys that need high relative protein compared to layers.

Animal proteins and fats provide the nutrients needed by poultry at more affordable prices than competing products. Therefore, the idea of ​​replacing some of the soybean meal in poultry rations with animal protein products to improve performance has attracted attention in the industry. The oligosaccharide portion of soybean meal produces some harmful effects on poultry. This is thought to be due to a substance found in the undigested portion of the product. The addition of animal protein can improve performance over standard vegetarian diets. While these results may be due to high levels of limiting amino acids, they may also be explained by the reduced amount of poorly digested carbohydrates in soybean meal. Studies suggest that almost half of the protein source in the formula can be obtained from mixed by-products. While each product has different nutritional content and potential values, most are excellent sources of energy or high-quality protein. They also contain highly available phosphorus and other minerals.

In summary, rendered products provide valuable and important sources of highly available energy, protein and minerals that should continue to be utilized by all aspects of the poultry industry.

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