Alternative, Innovative and Unconventional Feeds

The aim of the course is to provide basic knowledge related to alternative, innovative and unconventional feeds used in the nutrition of farm animals and pet animals. The objective is for students to develop knowledge and understanding of innovative feeds such as: insects, ex-foods, single cell proteins, algae, etc. These ingredients will be declined both from a nutritional point of view and from a production point of view, also in reference to the new contexts of circular economy and sustainability.

1. Knowledge and understanding: at the end of the course, the student will have to demonstrate that he/she has acquired updated knowledge on alternative, innovative and unconventional feeds proposed in class, such as: insects, ex-foods, single cell proteins and algae. A comparison will be made on the nutritional and production aspects of classic and alternative ingredients and the concept of "circular economy" and "circular feed" will be explained and the regulatory framework will be explored in depth, considering the continuous evolution and demand for circular and sustainable feeds.
2. Applying knowledge and understanding: the student will have to demonstrate that he/she possesses knowledge and concepts useful for identifying, proposing and evaluating the most useful type of alternative/innovative feed in a livestock farm, both for livestock and pet animals, considering the production needs of the different livestock and non-livestock animals.
3. Making judgments: the student must demonstrate that he/she is able to critically argue the information acquired. Specific practical activities with food analysis laboratories are addressed in this direction, as well as the presentation of group work on specific topics assigned by the course teachers.
4. Communication: the student must demonstrate the ability to express themselves with scientifically appropriate terminology, in particular with regard to the terminology relating to the use of alternative and innovative feeds, the circular economy and the need to produce more sustainable feeds that allow for resource savings (energy, water and soil). The exercises and laboratories on feedd analysis are intended to stimulate the ability to express oneself correctly and the ability to discuss scientifically with peers, allowing comparison between conventional and non-conventional ingredients.
5. Lifelong learning skills: the student must demonstrate that he/she possesses the ability to use the knowledge acquired to independently interpret the demand for innovation and sustainability of the feed and nutrition market for animals of zootechnical and non-zootechnical interest, using available sources of knowledge and good mental organization.