Influence of the animal feed binders on optimal nutritional and physical qualities of the animal feed pellets and feed production capacity- A literature review

Abstract

Binders are binding/firming agents that develop solid bridges through chemical reaction to make strong interparticle bonding. They are used to strengthen pellets, improve pellet integrity, durability and stability, reduce nutrient leaching and prevent fragmentation and abrasion of pellets during handling, transportation and storage. Binders like lignosulfonate, bentonite and sepiolite enhance pellet strength and durability by acting as a filler to fill in pore spaces between particles. Some have adhesive forces that help to glue and consolidate particles. Binders such as starch and protein improve pellet strength and durability through chemical reaction by changing the nature of feed mix after undergoing heat, moisture and heat treatment during the pelleting process. Besides improving physical pellet properties, some binders can enhance animals' growth and digestibility. Supplementing binders in feed are distinct for different animal species diets. Therefore, selection of binder in feed is based on its suitability for a specific animal species