As-fed ⇄ dry matter converter for feed nutrients
Convert any feed nutrient between as-fed and dry-matter basis using moisture or DM%. Formula, worked examples and links to species feed calculators.
Short answer · reviewed August 2026
To convert a nutrient from as-fed to dry-matter basis, divide the as-fed value by the dry matter fraction: DM% value = as-fed value ÷ (DM% ÷ 100). To go back, multiply by the DM fraction. Dry matter is 100 minus moisture, so maize at 14% moisture has 86% DM and an as-fed 8.0% crude protein equals 9.30% CP on a dry-matter basis.
Convert now
Moisture = 12%
If the value is as-fed → dry matter basis
52.27%
If the value is DM basis → as-fed
40.48%
Results are unit conversions only — always confirm the analytical basis stated on the supplier certificate of analysis.
Formula
Nutrient (DM basis) = Nutrient (as-fed) ÷ (Dry matter % ÷ 100) Nutrient (as-fed) = Nutrient (DM basis) × (Dry matter % ÷ 100) Dry matter % = 100 − Moisture %
Always compare ingredient offers on the same basis. Two soybean meal offers at 46% CP are not equal if one is quoted as-fed at 12.5% moisture and the other on a dry-matter basis.
Worked examples
| Input | Calculation | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Maize, 8.0% CP as-fed, 14.0% moisture (86% DM) | 8.0 ÷ 0.86 | 9.30% CP on DM basis |
| Soybean meal, 46.0% CP as-fed, 12.0% moisture (88% DM) | 46.0 ÷ 0.88 | 52.27% CP on DM basis |
| Maize silage, 8.5% CP on DM, 32% DM | 8.5 × 0.32 | 2.72% CP as-fed |
| Wheat bran, 15.5% CP as-fed, 11% moisture (89% DM) | 15.5 ÷ 0.89 | 17.42% CP on DM basis |
FAQ
What is the difference between as-fed and dry matter basis?
As-fed values include the water in the feed exactly as delivered. Dry-matter values remove all water, so they let you compare a 32% DM silage with an 88% DM meal on the same nutritional footing.
How do I convert as-fed protein to dry matter protein?
Divide the as-fed protein percentage by the dry matter fraction. At 88% DM, 46% as-fed crude protein becomes 46 ÷ 0.88 = 52.27% on a dry-matter basis.
Which basis should a purchase contract use?
State the basis explicitly in the specification. Most compound feed contracts price as-fed with a maximum moisture clause, while forages and wet by-products are usually traded and paid on dry matter.
Does moisture affect landed cost per unit of protein?
Yes. Buying water raises the effective cost per unit of nutrient, so recalculate cost per tonne of dry matter or per unit of protein before comparing offers.