The feed behind the footprint: average rations for farm animals in Germany

Introduction. Agriculture is one of the main drivers of planetary boundary transgression, with animal products in particular playing a major role. Although the production of animal feed accounts for a large share of this impact, there is no data available for Germany on the average feed composition for different farm animals. In order to fill this gap, this study derived data sets for the average feed supply for the most important farm animals (cattle, pigs, poultry). Method. Material flow analysis (MFA) was used to determine the average feed compositions and quantities for the various farm animals. Average feed compositions were determined on the basis of official statistical data on domestic animal feed consumption and feeding recommendations for the various animal species. These were then discussed with experts and adjusted accordingly. Results. Based on these statistical data, tables of the average feed composition for the most relevant German farm animals were created. Discussion. The information on average feed composition supplements existing information and, on this basis, enables more detailed studies of the environmental impact of animal food consumption in Germany and the derivation of strategies for sustainable food systems.. In addition, optimisation strategies in feeding and scenarios for future changes in feeding practices can be analysed and evaluated in terms of their environmental impacts.