Professional ration advisors have access to a large variety of models to help them put together the perfect ration for various animal types at different life stages. The different models (CNCPS, NRC, Feed into Milk, …) each show huge variations in complexity, biology and cost. One of the main challenges of ration advisors is to understand the nutritional concepts contained in the different models so they can offer the best possible ration advice to suit the needs of their customers.
Each of the different models available in the market today have specific characteristics, advantages and disadvantages. In this mini-series we aim to give a clear overview of each of the different models available in BESTMIX Ration calculation as a Service.
CNCPS model
The Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System (CNCPS) was developed by Cornell University to predict feed utilization, requirements, nutrient excretion and animal performance for dairy and beef cattle. CNCPS is an advanced model that offers more insights and information on animals' ration and performance than any other model. Unfortunately, this means there's quite a learning curve to completely master the model.
As one of the typical models used in the dairy market the latest version, CNCPS 6.5.5, is available in BESTMIX. With a complete modeling of the animal and predictions and evaluations of nutrients and parameters it is the ideal model to help ration advisors to create rations for dairy and beef cattle.
CNCPS requirements and performance predictions
The model offers requirement and performance predictions for amino acids, metabolizable protein, minerals, vitamins and energy. The protein, amino acid and energy even have a dynamic supply side. This makes for better performance predictions but adds to the complexity of using the model in a least-cost ration balancing package. Luckily, BESTMIX Ration calculation as a Service offers the capability to optimize on these dynamic models.
CNCPS advantages
- One of the main advantages of CNCPS is that it is continuously updated. To allow us to keep up with the specific challenges of managing such an advanced model and to learn more about its uses and updates Adifo works together with a knowledge partner, Agricultural Modeling and Training System (AMTS). This allows us to get the most out of the model when it's integrated with our multi-model and multi-species solution: BESTMIX Ration calculation as a Service.
- Nutritionists and ration advisors are constantly struggling to have all possible feedstuffs and products available in the model. The CNCPS model offers a solution by including an extensive database with +800 feedstuffs, forages and commercially available specialty products.
- Very complete model.
- Is quickly turning into the market standard in many parts of the world.
CNCPS and BESTMIX Ration calculation as a Service
Even though CNCPS clearly offers a lot of advantages to ration advisors, involved with dairy and beef cattle, it can't offer advice on any other animal models. To fulfill our vision of a single "one-stop-shop" ration solution we are constantly developing and integrating other models into BESTMIX Ration calculation as a service as well.
If you'd like to find out more about how we integrate the CNCPS model into our award-winning solution be sure to request the BESTMIX Formulation as a Service in-depth product videos.
