Feed procurement glossary
Extruder
Definition
An extruder cooks and expands feed under heat, moisture and pressure to produce floating or high-density feed. It is the defining machine for floating aquaculture feed and many pet foods.
Why it matters
Extrusion enables product types that pelleting cannot, at significantly higher capital and energy cost.
When it affects procurement
As soon as floating feed is required.
Example
A twin-screw extruder producing floating tilapia feed with downstream drying and oil coating.
Frequently asked questions
Single or twin screw?
Twin-screw offers wider formulation flexibility and higher oil tolerance; single-screw is cheaper for standard products.