Modelling of locally grown plant protein costs for pig feeding

Abstract

The paper deals with modelling of cultivation and processing costs of locally-grown plant protein in Latvia. Plant protein is a significant component both in animal and human nutrition. Presently, the EU and Latvia's economy, especially animal farming, largely depend on the import of plant protein products. Local production of protein crops has been attracting increased interest recently mainly due to various environmental and climate benefits, as well as advantages of short supply chains. While political initiatives to promote the growing of protein crops locally exist in the EU, the cultivation and processing costs are crucial factors that affect the competitiveness of locally grown plant protein for both animal and human consumption. The article seeks to evaluate the cost-efficiency of local protein sources for the use as feed ingredients in pig farming. As the content of protein varies among different crops, four protein crops are considered and compared in the study - soybeans, beans, peas and blue lupine. The authors have developed a model that allows to evaluate the cultivation and processing costs of protein crops not only per tonne of crop but also per tonne of crude protein and amino acids, including ideal amino acid balance. The results of this study indicate that local peas and blue lupine have the highest cost-efficiency for pig feeding. Locally grown soya is more expensive; therefore, it can be regarded as the premium source of protein for pig feeding. By changing amino acid profile required in various animal feeds, the model allows assessing the cost-efficiency of local protein crops not only in pig farming, but also in other livestock sectors.