The Feedlot Cost of Grain Calculator is a practical tool for livestock producers and farm managers to estimate the total feed grain cost per animal in a feedlot setting. By using daily grain intake, the number of feeding days, and current market grain prices, it helps determine the cost efficiency of feeding programs.
This calculator supports accurate cost forecasting, budgeting, and profitability analysis for feedlot operations. Whether you're feeding cattle, pigs, or other grain-fed livestock, this calculator provides clear insights into one of the largest variable costs in livestock production.
formula of Feedlot Cost of Grain Calculator
Main Formula:
Feedlot Cost of Grain = (Grain Price per Unit × Grain Intake per Animal × Days on Feed) / Unit Conversion
Metric Version:
Feedlot Cost of Grain ($) = (Grain Price $/ton × Daily Intake in kg × Days on Feed) / 1000
Here, 1000 converts kilograms into metric tons.
Imperial Version:
If grain is priced per bushel and feed intake is in pounds:
Cost ($) = (Grain Price $/bushel × Total Intake in lbs) / 56
Use 56 lbs per bushel for corn. This conversion varies slightly for other grains.
Key Terms:
- Grain Price per Unit: Cost of grain in chosen unit (e.g., $/ton, $/bushel)
- Daily Grain Intake: Average amount of grain one animal eats daily
- Days on Feed: Total feeding duration
- Unit Conversion: Factor used to align intake and pricing units
This formula enables producers to compare feed scenarios, evaluate feedlot performance, and track expenses effectively.
Common Reference Table
| Grain Type | Typical Weight per Bushel (lbs) | Conversion to Metric (kg) | Avg Price (per unit) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corn | 56 | 25.4 | $6.00/bushel |
| Barley | 48 | 21.8 | $5.00/bushel |
| Wheat | 60 | 27.2 | $7.50/bushel |
| Sorghum | 56 | 25.4 | $5.75/bushel |
| Oats | 32 | 14.5 | $4.25/bushel |
Use actual market prices for accurate results. These values are industry estimates and subject to change.
Example of Feedlot Cost of Grain Calculator
Let’s say a feedlot operator is feeding corn to cattle:
- Grain Price: $240 per metric ton
- Daily Grain Intake: 10 kg
- Days on Feed: 90
Apply the formula:
Feedlot Cost of Grain = (240 × 10 × 90) / 1000 = $216 per animal
This shows the total grain feeding cost for one animal over the 90-day feedlot period.
Most Common FAQs
It helps understand the exact cost of feed inputs, which is vital for pricing, budgeting, and evaluating feed efficiency.
Yes, just ensure you use the correct unit conversions and average weights per bushel for each grain type.
You can adapt the unit conversion part of the formula to match your pricing unit. Always ensure the intake unit and price unit align.