Animal Feed

The division was established with the primary aim of creating a stable market for SSK members and grain producers in the Southern Cape feed grain. Other important considerations were the better utilization of SSK’s infrastructure and existing staff. The division’s animal feed production plants are located at SSK’s Karringmelksrivier and Riversdal silo complexes.

A wide range of registered dairy and sheep feeds of quality are manufactured at SSK’s animal feed manufacturing plants in Karringmelksrivier and Riversdal. Delivery services (bags and bulk) are also available. Financing for purchases of animal feed qualifies according to SSK’s credit policy.

The Animal Scientist provides animal husbandry related information to producers with regards to animal nutrition, animal breeding, general animal management and basic animal health.

Business Objectives

The division aims to use locally produced raw materials as much as possible in the formulation of their products. The division has, since its inception, managed to secure a stable domestic market for products like feed barley, triticale and yellow maize and was instrumental to the prices that local grain producers have received for these products over the past few seasons.

Production

The weighing of raw materials and mixing thereof is done from a central control room using a computer. Computer printouts are made of each mixture and samples of the finished mixed feed are analyzed on a regular basis. This minimizes human error and ensure products of high and uniform quality. The plant is equipped to produce mash and pellets in bulk or bags.

Ration Formulation

All the organization’s raw materials are properly rated and continuously analysed in a laboratory to ensure that the composition, especially in terms of protein content, is above reproach. Ration formulation is done by using “Format International’s” minimum cost ration formulation package. This computer package is used by most major feed companies and ensure optimal formulation at a minimum cost basis.

The division seeks to continuously apply and utilise the latest research results in formulating rations.

Product Range

Currently a fully registered dairy series consisting of an urea free range with a protein content of 12%, 15%, 17% or 20% and an urea-containing range with a protein content of 15%, 17% or 20% supply. An energy supplement for pastures as well as complete calf creep pellets are also available. The division also specializes in customer mixes that include, among others, high protein concentrates (HPC), sheep finishing feeds and ewe and lamb licks.

Delivery

Delivery facilities for bulk and bags are available. Bulk delivery is a minimum of 6 tons and bags a minimum of 8 tons. Customers also have the option to self-collect their feed at the plant.