The amino acids in peas are highly digestible by swine and poultry and pea protein is highly degradable in ruminants. The energy value of peas for pigs is similar to high-energy grains such as corn and wheat, although the relative energy value for poultry is lower. The energy values for cattle are quite high and are comparable with cereal grains. Ruminants are able to digest all the pea components. Studies have also shown that feed peas exhibit excellent potential for aquaculture feeds. Whole ground peas may be used in some aquafeeds while concentrated protein product made from peas have been shown to be advantageous for feeds in certain fish species.
A more detailed discussion of the nutritional attributes of feed peas in livestock diets is contained in the Canadian Feed Pea Industry Guide.
