What does nutrient digestibility influence in livestock diets?

Nutrient digestibility plays a critical role in how effectively livestock can convert the feed they consume into energy and growth. When animals ingest feed, the digestibility of the nutrients present determines how much of those nutrients are broken down and absorbed into the animal’s body for use. High digestibility means a greater proportion of the feed nutrients—such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats—are utilized by the animal, leading to more efficient growth and energy production. This efficiency is essential for livestock production, as it directly impacts weight gain, milk production, and overall health.

In contrast, less digestible feed means that the animal can take in more food without being able to efficiently convert it into usable energy or growth. As a result, optimizing nutrient digestibility is crucial for maximizing the productivity and health of livestock.