Trends in Feed Consumption Patterns in Bulgaria’s Livestock Sector: a Decade of Change
Trends in Feed Consumption Patterns in Bulgaria’s Livestock Sector: a Decade of Change

Author(s): Silvia Krasteva
Subject(s): Economy, National Economy, Agriculture, Socio-Economic Research
Published by: Университет за национално и световно стопанство (УНСС)
Keywords: animal feed consumption; distribution channels; supply chains
Summary/Abstract: The manufacturing of animal feed is an essential component for maintaining livestock husbandry and it has a long tradition in Bulgaria. A sizable amount of the feed used in Bulgarian farms is produced locally, allowing for some self-sufficiency and lowering reliance on outside sources. Nonetheless, premium, industrially produced feed that has been enhanced with vital vitamins, minerals, and amino acids makes up the majority of feed used in commercial livestock operations. The main aim of the paper is to propose a trends in the feed consumtion pattern in livestock. The tasks are to 1) categorize the main kinds of animal feed that are sold in Bulgaria and assess their unique uses for different kinds of animals; 2) to track the shifts in feed supply distribution routes and analyze the evolution of market access, supply chain logistics, and retail behaviors over the last ten years; 3) to evaluate changes in feed preferences, demand trends, and buying habits depending on farm size, production intensity, and economic considerations by conducting a field-based study of livestock farms. The study integrates primary empirical insights obtained from livestock farmers via structured surveys and interviews with secondary data analysis.

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