When it comes to boosting animal nutrition and cutting feed costs, one ancient grain stands out—Pearl Millet (Bajra). Once a staple in traditional farming, today it’s becoming a superfeed grain in modern livestock and poultry nutrition. From its rich nutritional profile to its cost-effectiveness and climate resilience, bajra is increasingly being recognized as a powerhouse ingredient for feed manufacturers, importers, and livestock producers worldwide.
🌱 What is Pearl Millet (Bajra)?
Pearl millet, commonly known as bajra, is a hardy cereal crop grown primarily in arid and semi-arid regions. India is the world’s largest producer, contributing nearly 40% of the global production. Known for its drought resistance, rapid growth, and nutritional richness, pearl millet is now making strong inroads in cattle, poultry, goat, and bird feed industries.
📈 Why Is Pearl Millet Gaining Traction in Animal Feed?
With rising maize prices and unpredictable supply chains, animal feed manufacturers are searching for sustainable and economical alternatives. Pearl millet has emerged as a viable replacement for maize and other cereal grains due to the following benefits:
✅ Nutritional Benefits of Pearl Millet in Animal Feed
| Nutrient | Value (per 100g dry matter) |
|---|---|
| Crude Protein | 11–14% |
| Metabolizable Energy | 2800–3100 kcal/kg |
| Crude Fiber | 1.2–1.5% |
| Fat (Ether Extract) | 4–5% |
| Digestibility (TDN) | 65–70% |
Key Highlights:
- High Energy Content: Suitable for fattening cattle and high-performance poultry.
- Gluten-Free: Ideal for specialized animal diets.
- Rich in Minerals: Especially iron, phosphorus, and zinc.
- Supports Gut Health: Its fiber improves digestion and feed efficiency.
🐄 Applications in Animal Feed
1. Cattle Feed
Bajra is used as a major energy source in compound feed and total mixed rations (TMR) for dairy and beef cattle. It improves milk yield and weight gain.
2. Poultry Feed
Its low non-starch polysaccharides (NSPs) make it suitable for broilers and layers. It enhances feed conversion ratio (FCR) when properly processed.
3. Goat & Sheep Feed
Its protein and mineral profile support better body weight gain and wool production.
4. Bird and Pet Feed
Pearl millet is a popular ingredient in exotic bird and cage pet feeds, thanks to its palatability and micronutrient content.
🌍 Sustainability and Climate Resilience
Pearl millet thrives in low rainfall areas and poor soil conditions, requiring 40% less water than maize. It matures quickly and supports multiple harvests annually. This makes it a climate-smart choice for feed production in drought-prone regions.
📊 Global Market Insights & Demand Trends
- Global Feed Industry to reach $700 billion by 2027, with a surge in demand for alternative grains.
- Pearl Millet-Based Feed is expected to grow at 8–10% CAGR in Asia and Africa.
- Cost savings of 15–25% compared to maize-based feed.
🔬 Proven Results: Field Observations & Trials
A 2022 livestock trial in Rajasthan showed:
- 15% increase in milk yield in buffaloes fed with bajra-based feed.
- 12% better feed conversion ratio (FCR) in broilers compared to maize diets.
- Higher immunity levels and improved gut flora in goats and sheep.
🚀 Why Feed Manufacturers Should Consider Pearl Millet
- Affordable & abundant
- Supports clean label and non-GMO claims
- Compatible with pelleting and extrusion processing
- Improves overall feed profitability
📣 Ready to Shift to Smart Nutrition?
Pearl millet isn’t just a grain—it’s a strategic ingredient for the future of animal feed. If you’re a feed importer, wholesaler, or manufacturer, incorporating bajra can help you enhance nutrition, reduce costs, and tap into sustainable practices.
📌 For Bulk Orders or Customized Animal Feed Formulations:
🟧 Shree Shubham Exim
🔹 Exporters of Agro Commodities & Animal Feed Ingredients
🌐 www.shreeshubhamexim.com
📧 Email: info@shreeshubhamexim.com
📞 Contact: +91-9170007077
Let’s feed smarter, sustainably, and profitably — with Pearl Millet.
