Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Formula for Protein Equivalent
Protein equivalent is equal to:
- $\frac{\%DCP + \%DTP}{2}$ — Correct Answer
- $\frac{TDN - DCP}{DCP}$
- $\frac{TDN + DCP}{2}$
- None
Explanation:
Correct Answer: (DCP% + DTP%) / 2
Protein Equivalent is calculated as the average of Digestible Crude Protein (DCP%) and Digestible True Protein (DTP%): PE = (DCP + DTP) / 2. This ruminant-specific measure accounts for both true protein and NPN (non-protein nitrogen) contributions to the protein supply.
Protein Equivalent — Concept
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| DCP (Digestible Crude Protein) | Includes true protein + NPN × 6.25 |
| DTP (Digestible True Protein) | Only true (real) protein fraction that is digestible |
| Protein Equivalent | (DCP + DTP) / 2 — used for ruminant protein evaluation |
Protein Evaluation Methods by Species
- For ruminants: DCP (digestion trial), N-balance, Protein Equivalent.
- For non-ruminants: PER (Protein Efficiency Ratio), Biological Value (BV).
- Protein Equivalent bridges the gap between NPN and true protein contributions in ruminant nutrition.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- (TDN − DCP) / DCP → this is the Nutritive Ratio, not Protein Equivalent.
- (TDN + DCP) / 2 → no recognized nutritional parameter; mixes energy and protein units.
- None → (DCP + DTP) / 2 is the correct formula.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition
This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.
