How to design farm-level comparisons that account for pen variations, seasonal weather shifts, and statistical noise without bias.
Designing Credible Farm-Level Evaluations
Before running an on-farm evaluation, define clear success criteria and account for confounding variables.
Principles of Honest Field Assessment
- Clear Objective & Baseline: Define the exact metrics (e.g., milk yield, FCR, mortality, litter score) before starting.
- Comparable Control Groups: Avoid comparing different genetics, house designs, or seasons without adjustment.
- Transparent Reporting: Document both positive outcomes and operational limitations honestly.
FAUNEX believes that practical animal nutrition decisions must always be founded on verified biological mechanisms, realistic feeding conditions, and economic viability. We do not promote blanket solutions without accounting for farm-specific forage chemistry, biosecurity, water quality, and environmental variables.