Price quotes on unprocessed feed may only be a starting point. Take into account delivery charges as well. Market price should be considered if you are trying to decide if the feed should stay on the farm and be fed or sold and another feed purchased for feeding. An example might be oats when it is relatively high priced on the market. Actual cost of production will vary with the size of the operation and the amount of equipment used.
Prices vary with the same feedstuff depending on which nutrient value is used.
The following method demonstrates how to determine whether alfalfa hay or soybean meal is the best buy as a protein source. Soybean meal is the cheaper protein source Price per unit of nutrient will not be the only determining factor in choosing which protein source to use. Method of delivery must also be considered. Feeding a meal form of protein supplement will require feed bunks versus just placing hay bales in a pasture or bale ring. Nitrogen sources, such as urea, are an excellent supplement for high grain diets.