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Feed conversion ratio (FCR)

Feed conversion ratio (FCR) is a typical parameter measured in animal experiments and husbandry. FCR is usually calculated by the equation:

FCR = [Feed intake (g)] / [Weight gain (g)]

More generally, FCR can be considered as [input]/[output] in animal hunbandary industries.

FCR is the inverse of feed efficiency (FE), and low FCR means high efficiency. i.e., the animal can gain more weight by consuming the same amount of food. Beef cattles generally have a high FCR.


FCR ranges

Feed conversion ratios for selected aquatic and terrestrial farmed animal species [1]. Dots represent means and bars indicate range.

The term “feed conversion efficiency (FCE)” is confusing since it sometimes represents FCR [3] and sometimes FE [4]. The use of this term is not recommended.


Definitions in the literature

  • FCR = Feed intake (g) ÷ weight gain (g) [2]

Also see: