How Do I Make My Own Fish Feed? Cost-Effective Formulas & Extruder Operation Tips

The core of low-cost fish feed formulation is "selecting raw materials according to local conditions and precisely matching them to ensure nutrition." The following three formulations are suitable for different aquaculture scenarios, with readily available and low-cost raw materials. Formulation 1 (General Freshwater Fish): 28% cornmeal, 25% wheat bran, 20% soybean meal, 15% cottonseed meal, 8% fishmeal, 4% minerals, costing approximately 1.2-1.5 yuan per jin (500g), suitable for common freshwater fish such as grass carp and common carp. Formulation 2 (Fry Fish Specific): 20% cornmeal, 30% soybean meal, 25% fishmeal, 15% wheat bran, 5% milk powder, 5% vitamins, costing approximately 1.8-2.2 yuan per jin (500g), with high protein content suitable for the growth needs of fry. Formulation 3 (High-Cost-Effective Adult Fish): 35% cornmeal, 25% rice bran, 15% soybean meal, 15% peanut meal, 5% fishmeal, 5% minerals, costing approximately 1.0-1.3 yuan per jin (500g), suitable for the rapid growth stage of adult fish.

Combining this with energy-saving operating techniques of a small fish feed pellet making machine can further reduce self-production costs. Firstly, during the preheating stage, it's crucial to control the preheating time appropriately. Small extruders don't require excessive preheating; feeding can begin once the temperature reaches and stabilizes at 120℃. This avoids wasting energy on prolonged idle preheating (saving 0.2-0.3 kWh of electricity for every 5 minutes of preheating time). Secondly, parameter matching is essential. Adjust the screw speed and feed rate according to the raw material formula. For example, in formulas with a high grain content (such as Formula 3), adjust the screw speed to 350 rpm and the feed rate to 8-10 kg/h to improve raw material utilization. For formulas with a high fishmeal content (such as Formula 2), adjust the speed to 400 rpm and the feed rate to 5-8 kg/h to ensure thorough cooking.

Furthermore, routine maintenance of the small fish feed making machine can reduce long-term costs. After each use, promptly clean the screw, die, and extrusion chamber of the extruder to remove residual raw materials, preventing bacterial growth or impact on subsequent production, and reducing component wear. Regularly check the screw wear; replace it promptly if severely worn to avoid increased energy consumption and feed waste due to uneven raw material delivery. Choosing common, easily damaged parts, such as screws and die heads, allows for lower market prices and eliminates the need for custom-made products. Through scientific formulation, energy-efficient operation, and proper maintenance, homemade fish feed can be 30%-50% cheaper than purchased finished products, while also ensuring higher quality.

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