The main objectives of this testing program are to improve feed and forage quality and strengthen feeding programs. No Charge Standard minerals includes phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese, iron, and sulfur. Ash is the percentage residual mineral matter remaining after all organic material is destroyed by heat. Crude fat in rations is a concentrated energy source. Therefore, fat analysis is not needed on most forages and grains.
Bound protein is unavailable crude protein which is contained in the fiber fraction of the forage.
This value will indicate if excessive heating has occurred, thus reducing protein digestibility. If heat damage is suspected, an analysis for bound protein should be requested. Dry matter will be run routinely on all samples. Total digestible nutrients and energy values for hays, silages, mixed rations, grains, and complete feeds will be calculated from the crude protein and acid detergent fiber values. For poultry samples , analyses of crude protein, neutral detergent fiber, fat and ash must be checked for calculation of metabolizable energy .