Percent Of Corn Used For Animal Feed
Corn is one of the most important crops in the United States. It is used in a variety of ways, including as food for human consumption, fuel, and animal feed. In fact, a significant percentage of corn produced in the US is used for animal feed. In this article, we will delve deeper into the subject and discuss everything you need to know about the percent of corn used for animal feed.
What is Corn?
Corn is a cereal crop that belongs to the family of grasses. It is one of the most widely grown crops in the world and is used for a variety of purposes. Corn is grown in a range of climates and soils, making it a versatile crop. It is a staple food in many parts of the world and is also used to produce biofuels, industrial products, and animal feed.
The Importance of Corn in Animal Feed
Corn is an important ingredient in animal feed. It is used to feed cattle, pigs, poultry, and other livestock. Corn is preferred for animal feed because it is high in energy and is a good source of protein and other nutrients. The use of corn in animal feed has increased significantly over the years due to its availability and affordability. Corn-based feeds are also easily digestible, making them a popular choice among farmers.
What Percentage of Corn is Used for Animal Feed?
The percent of corn used for animal feed varies from year to year depending on the crop yield and other factors. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), in 2020, approximately 35% of the corn produced in the US was used for animal feed. This was a decrease from the previous year, where around 37% of corn was used for animal feed.
Other Uses of Corn
While a significant percentage of corn is used for animal feed, there are many other uses of corn. Corn is used to produce ethanol, which is a fuel additive that is blended with gasoline. It is also used to produce sweeteners, such as high fructose corn syrup, which is used in a variety of food products. Cornstarch, another derivative of corn, is used in the production of paper, textiles, and other industrial products. Corn is also a popular food crop and is consumed in a variety of forms, including as popcorn, corn on the cob, and tortilla chips.
Conclusion
Corn is an important crop in the United States and is used for a variety of purposes, including as animal feed. While the percent of corn used for animal feed varies from year to year, it remains a significant portion of the total corn produced in the US. Corn-based feeds are preferred by farmers due to their affordability, availability, and digestibility. Additionally, corn is used to produce biofuels, sweeteners, and other industrial products, making it a versatile crop with many uses.
