Definition: A feed budget estimates bags and dollars from pounds still needed to hit fair weight and your feed conversion ratio (FCR).
Formulas: feed lbs = pounds to gain × FCR; bags = feed lbs ÷ bag size; cost = bags × price per bag.
Worked example: Current 100 lb, target 265 lb (165 lb gain), FCR 3.0, 50 lb bags at $22 → feed 495 lb → 9.9 bags → ~$218.
Why budgets matter mid-season
- Parents can plan cash flow for show feed vs. unexpected vet costs.
- Record books need receipts — estimate early, log actuals weekly.
- If ADG drops, the budget stretches; re-run the estimator after each weigh-in.
Try the free feed cost estimator. Deepen FCR literacy in feed conversion basics and close the money loop with project breakeven.
Next step: Log every bag as an expense in a free ShowPen account.