Background & objectives

Animal feed is a key driver in supporting the agroecological transition of livestock farming. Current rationing tools, which are calibrated for so-called ‘dominant’ systems, need to evolve to enable the utilisation of a greater diversity and heterogeneity of feed resources and animals (breed, individual variability) across a range of socio-economic and climatic contexts.

Deliverables

The project’s deliverables are:

• Agile prediction models (AI-assisted, proxy-based) of the various values of feed resources and the animals’ ability to utilise them in different contexts (temperate and tropical, conventional and organic).
• Multi-objective ration optimisation algorithms.
• A digital dissemination platform, designed with users to ensure the adoption of the project’s results.

Organisation

The project is structured into 5 work packages (WP):

• WP1: To define, through co-construction with stakeholders, the evolution of feeding strategies adapted to the agroecological transition in different systems, and the associated indicators.
• WP2: Collect and organise relevant data on feed and animals; identify and improve models for assessing animal responses to rations.
• WP3: Develop context-specific, AI-assisted predictive models for feed values and animal requirements and performance.
• WP4: Develop rationing algorithms, exploring trade-offs between nutritional, environmental, economic and societal objectives.
• WP5: Develop a digital platform for disseminating results, co-designed with the various stakeholders involved in the agroecological transition.