There are three basic types of grain feed on the market today: corn, barley and sorghum. Each type comes in a wide variety of mixes, formulas and prices although all are suited for the general feeding of farm livestock. American grain feed providers offer a reliable resource for ranch and farm owners and with each year the diversity of product increases.

Barley-based feed grain offers the highest source of protein for all animals although corn as the most popular grain choice in the country is often cheaper. Sorghum costs a little more than the other two grains and is often used in domestic pet food. Feed grain can be a small business owners source of profit or loss. When choosing a grain feed provider:

1. Save money by choosing grains and grain providers in your area.

2. Determine the most productive grain feed for your livestock.

3. Consider organic feeds for organic end products.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose a grain feed provider offering enhanced products for nutrition

It's difficult to find any one product that can serve all of an animal's dietary needs. Choosing enhance grain feeds allows you to stay with one supplier and type of food and avoid the need for the purchase of additional supplements. Repeat custom always offers the opportunity to discounts.

I recommend: Jupe Mills offers a comprehensive grain feed list on their website featuring a variety of enhanced grain feeds for different needs. Browse the catalog then email for a pricing quote. Todd's Feed Supply and Trailer Sales also offers a comprehensive list of enhanced grain feeds customized for each type of animal.

Buy dry grain feed to save on shipping and storage costs

Dry gain feeds need water added before serving to animals but are often a cheaper way to feed your livestock. Depending on the size of your herd and your storage capabilities, dry grain offers the same nutrition at a lower price.

I recommend: Archer Daniels Midland offers bulk feed supplies in many variety but is a growing expert in dry grains. Visit their website to request a sample of the product before purchase. Crystal Farms is one of the largest suppliers of dry animal grain feed in the country. Contact them for a free quote.

Pick organic grain feed for health and marketing

Using organic feeds not only increases the health of your livestock but, along with environmental factors, add a valuable marketing technique to your arsenal. In a world gone green, organic fed animals are growing more and more popular on the food market.

I recommend: Find grain feed of the organic variety at CFS Specialities they offer a detailed online product list specifying both the quality and ingredients in their feeds. At Agriculture Solutions you can buy certified organic feeds in bulk, ordering online for quick results.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Read grain feed information carefully to ensure the product you buy is the correct product for your type of livestock.