23fi FISH HATCHF.RY MANAGEMENT 



(2) Because the same formulation and quality of ingredients are used, the 

 feed will be consistent from one production season to the next. 



(3) Competitive bidding is possible for the specified feed. 



(4) The feed can be monitored through a quality-control program. 



In using open- formula feeds, however, the buyer assumes full responsi- 

 bility for feed performance because the manufacturer has followed contract- 

 ed instructions. This requires the buyer to have concise manufacturing and 

 formula specifications, which must be updated periodically. Formula specif- 

 ications for various diets are presented in Appendix F. 



A closed-formula feed is one in which the feed formulation is not dis- 

 closed to the buyer. These feeds are sold by private manufacturers and are 

 also referred to as "brand name" or proprietary feeds. The advantages of 

 these feeds follow. 



(1) The manufacturer is responsible for the formulation. 



(2) The feed is generally a shelf item available at any time. 



(3) The diet may be lower in cost due to large-quantity production and 

 the option of ingredient substitution. 



(4) The manufacturer is liable for problems of poor production related to 

 the diet. 



However, the buyer has no control of the feed quality and the content of 

 the feed largely is unknown. There may be unexpected variations between 

 batches of feed due to ingredient substitutions or formulation changes. 



Handling and Storing Procedures 



Formulated fish feeds contain high levels of protein and oil with little fiber. 

 These feeds are soft, fragile, and prone to rapid deterioration, especially if 

 optimum handling and storage are not provided. 



Normally, the feeds are packaged in multiwalled paper bags to protect 

 the flavor, aroma, and color. The bags also reduce exposure to air, mois- 

 ture, and contamination. Plastic liners are used in bags for feeds containing 

 oil levels over 12% to eliminate oil seepage through the paper bags and to 

 retard moisture uptake. 



Many fish producers receive their feed in bulk, storing it in large bulk 

 bins (Figure 74). Whether feed is in bags or bulk, proper handling and 

 storage procedures must be followed to protect the quality of the feed. Be- 

 cause fish feeds are very fragile in comparison to feeds for other animals, 

 up to 3% fines can be expected from normal handling. Excess fines are the 

 result of rough handling or poor physical characteristics of the feed. Do not 



