BENEFITS OF FIELD PEAS IN ANIMAL FEED

The average crude protein content of feed peas is around 22.6% (90% dry matter basis). The digestibility of pea crude protein is relatively high with a range of digestibility coefficients of 83% to 88%, depending on species. Ruminants readily digest pea protein with about 22% of the protein un-degraded in the rumen (NRC, 1989). In addition, the complement and balance of essential amino acids in peas is excellent with the sulphur-amino acids (methionine and cystine) present in relatively low amounts. 

Of particular value to peas is the large concentration of lysine, relative to the needs of mono-gastric animals.  In contrast, cereal grains and canola meal contain less lysine but are rich in methionine and cystine. Therefore, pea protein and proteins from cereals and canola meal are, nutritionally complementary, and enhance each other's value when used in diets.

Amino acids levels in peas vary with the protein content with each amino acid having its own pattern of change relative to its protein content. By knowing the protein content, nutritionists can balance diets based on digestible amino acids and, in this way, can truly optimize the use of feed peas in diets.

Table 1. 
Chemical Composition of Feed Peas (90% Dry Matter Basis)

Notes
1 Marquardt and Bell, 1988.
2 Rhone-Poulenc Animal Nutrition, 1993.
3 Fonnesbeck et al., 1984.
4 McLean et al., 1974.
5 Sask. Feed Testing Lab 1990.

Table 2. 
Essential Amino Acid Characteristics of Feed Peas (90% DM BASIS)

Table 3. 
Mineral Content of Feed Peas (90% Dry Matter Basis) ¹

¹ CanadianResearch Data.
² Rhone-Poulenc, 1993.

Table 4. 
Vitamin Content of Feed Peas (90% Dry Matter Basis)

Table 5. 
Chemical Composition of Feed Peas (90% Dry Matter Basis)