Water adsorption in feed ingredients for animal pellets at different temperatures, particle size, and ingredient combinations

Results show that the chemical composition of ingredients and the physical state of water affect water adsorption. A combination of steam and water should be used to optimize production of pelletized feed. The combination of a fine degree of milling, high temperature, and a long residence time favor the water adsorption process for most of the dry ingredients. For mixtures of dry ingredients, the individual chemical composition of each ingredient could be as important as physical factors such as particle size, temperature, and residence time in water.