A brief and comprehensive history of the development and use of feed analysis: A review

Abstract

Currently, there are no general reviews that focus on feed analysis and its development from early to modern use. An objective of this review was to create a brief chronology of people, discoveries, and activities that were part of the development of modern feed analysis. Peer-reviewed, extension, and trade literature were used as resources in this review. Conference and symposia proceedings were also referenced. Some textbooks and PhD dissertations were cited. Finally, historic agricultural and other scientific literature dating from 1725 to 1936 were all used as sources. In modern society, feed analysis is more widely used than ever before in history, and interest in and utilization of feed analysis steadily increases. The history of feed analysis is not a simple chronological construct, since feed analysis has developed in conjunction with advancements and discoveries in chemistry, nutrition, and agricultural sciences. Using different systems of analysis, the evaluation of feeds has been practiced for millennia. Feed analysis, its categories, systems, methods, and applications are topics of universal interest among extension, education, and agricultural professionals. This review of people, practices, and events leading to the development of feed analyses can be a useful resource for anyone who wants to convey unique information about feed analysis and its history.

Keywords

• chemistry
• evaluation
• laboratory
• nutrition
• sustainability