After a period of relative stability in protein feed prices during 2019 and into 2020, soybean meal prices and prices of competitive protein feeds nearly doubled in price during 2021.  Later that year prices for protein feedstuffs fell back to near pre-rally process before heading higher into 2022 and 2023 (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Comparison of Protein Feedstuff Values

Protein meals have varying levels of crude protein.  Hi-Pro Soybean meal is 48% protein; DDGs average about 21% protein; cottonseed meal is 41% protein; canola meal is typically 36% protein; and meat and bone meal is 50% protein....