Animal nutritionists are scientists who analyse the nutritional value of animal feeds and provide livestock dietary advice to farming, agricultural and public sector staff. For a career as an animal nutritionist you’ll need an interest in science and animal welfare, an aptitude for business management and good communication skills.
Employers of Animal Nutritionists
- Animal and pet feed manufacturers
- Nutritional research centres
- Government agricultural departments
- Universities
- Consultancies
Duties
- evaluate the chemical and nutritional value of feeds, feed supplements, grass and forage for commercial animals and pets;
- formulate diets and rations to maximise growth, reproduction, health and/or performance;
- assess the relative nutritional and economic value of feeding systems;
- research the effectiveness of dietary regimes;
- conduct animal-based studies and laboratory trials;
- liaise with producers and clients to understand their targets and objectives, and the specific needs of the market;
- monitor feed formulations to meet quality performance and animal health standards;
- provide advice on nutrition to farmers, other animal owners, veterinarians and government bodies;
- rationalise animal feed manufacturing techniques;
- expand existing ranges of animal food products and develop new ones;
- support commercial teams in producing and launching new products;
- carry out sales and marketing strategies following the launch of a new product;
- balance a growing consumer interest in quality with the need to develop competitive agricultural systems;
- maintain expertise in nutritional trends and keep up to date with regulatory changes;
- use computer software to formulate diets, conduct research and generate reports;
- investigate nutritional disorders and the safe storage of feeds, often in conjunction with veterinary surgeons.
Qualifications
A degree in nutrition, equine studies, animal/veterinary science, medical sciences, agriculture, or dietetics is usually required for entry into the profession. The following subjects may open up more opportunities:
- agriculture (animal science);
- animal/equine science;
- animal management;
- animal production science;
- animal studies;
- animal welfare and behaviour;
- applied animal science;
- public health nutrition;
- veterinary science;
- biochemistry;
- biomedical sciences;
- biosciences;
- dietetics and physiology;
- health sciences;
- zoology.
Skills
- an understanding of the scientific basis of nutrition;
- familiarity with analysing data and writing reports;
- ability to conduct research in a safe, ethical and reliable manner;
- the capability to formulate and communicate ideas;
- the capacity to form long-term relationships with customers and clients;
- an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of science and the validity of others’ viewpoints;
- business management, time management and personal development skills;
- advanced numeracy, IT and internet skills;
- a driving license;
- drive, perseverance, dedication and a willingness to work long hours.
