Calculate feed conversion ratio (FCR) for poultry, fish or livestock from total feed and weight gain, or work out the feed needed or gain expected.

Feed eaten by the same animals over the same period as the weight gain. No mortality adjustment is made.

Optional settings
Optional. Blank omits costs. All costs use the same currency you enter.

Optional. Compares feed use at the same weight gain.

Optional comparison: enter both bounds from a benchmark matching species, age, feed basis and production system.

Related Calculators

Feed Conversion Ratio Formula

FCR = FG / AWG

Variables:

  • FCR is the feed conversion ratio: feed mass divided by live-weight gain on the same mass basis (for example, lb/lb or kg/kg).
  • FG is total feed intake for the animals and period being measured (lbs).
  • AWG is the total animal weight gain (lbs)

To calculate feed conversion ratio, divide feed intake by live-weight gain for the same animals and period. Specify whether feed is measured as-fed or as dry matter; compare only matching feed, gain and production bases. The calculator does not automatically adjust mortality, biomass transfers or natural food. FAO explains the formula and the need for comparable production conditions.

How to Calculate Feed Conversion Rate?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Feed Conversion Rate.

  1. First, determine the total feed given (lbs). 
  2. Next, determine the total animal weight gain (lbs). 
  3. Next, gather the formula from above: FCR = FG / AWG.
  4. Finally, calculate the Feed Conversion Rate.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

total feed given (lbs) = 5,000

total animal weight gain (lbs) = 200. FCR = 5,000 / 200 = 25 lb of feed per lb of live-weight gain.

FAQs on Feed Conversion Rate

What is the importance of calculating the Feed Conversion Rate (FCR)?

FCR describes feed use per unit of live-weight gain. On a matching measurement basis, a lower FCR means less feed per unit of gain. Costs, animal health and environmental outcomes also depend on feed composition, prices and the production system.

Can the Feed Conversion Rate vary between different animal species?

Yes. Species, growth stage, feed moisture, diet, production system and how gain is measured all affect comparisons. Supply a benchmark from a matching context rather than treating a generic animal range as a universal target.

How can one improve the Feed Conversion Rate?

Improving FCR can be achieved through various methods, including optimizing the nutritional content of the feed, ensuring proper feeding practices, managing the health and welfare of the animals, and selecting breeds known for better feed efficiency. Regular monitoring and adjustments based on performance data are also key.

Are there any tools available to help calculate the Feed Conversion Rate more efficiently?

Yes, there are several online calculators and software tools available that can help farmers and livestock producers calculate the FCR more efficiently. These tools often allow for the input of various parameters and can provide quick and accurate calculations, as seen in the links provided on the webpage.