Independent Nutrition Consultants

What Are Independent Nutritionists?

Independent nutrition consultants are paid by the farmer for advice rather than earning commissions from feed sales. This fee-for-service model removes conflicts of interest, ensuring recommendations focus solely on what's best for your cows and bottom line.

Independent vs. Company Nutritionists

Independent Consultants

• Paid directly by the farmer
• No product sales commissions
• Can recommend any products or suppliers
• Focus on total cost of nutrition
• Accountable only to the farmer

Company Nutritionists

• Employed by or contracted with feed companies
• Often provide "free" advice with product purchases
• May be incentivized to recommend their employer's products
• Can provide excellent service but with inherent conflicts

Services Provided

Ration Formulation

• Balancing rations for all animal groups
• Ingredient evaluation and sourcing
• Feed quality optimization
• Troubleshooting production problems

Feeding Management

• Feed delivery and bunk management
• Inventory and purchasing strategies
• Feed center efficiency
• Mixer wagon calibration and maintenance

Economic Analysis

• Cost of feeding per cwt of milk
• Feed efficiency optimization
• Ingredient cost comparison
• Return on nutrition investments

Choosing an Independent Nutritionist

Look for:

• Formal training in dairy nutrition (MS or PhD preferred)
• Experience with operations similar to yours
• Current knowledge of research and practices
• Strong analytical and communication skills
• References from current clients

Working Relationship

Most independent nutritionists visit farms monthly or more frequently, with regular communication between visits. They analyze production data, conduct barn assessments, and adjust rations as conditions change.

Cost Considerations

Expect to pay $500-2,000 per month depending on herd size and service intensity. This may seem expensive compared to "free" company nutrition services, but independent consultants often save multiples of their fees through more efficient rations, better product sourcing, and improved production.