The Pearson’s Square is a simple, visual method used for balancing rations, primarily in animal nutrition. It allows one to calculate the proportions of two feed ingredients needed to achieve a desired nutrient concentration in a final mix. For example, if a target protein percentage is required for cattle feed, and two ingredients with differing protein levels are available, this method helps determine the correct ratio of each ingredient.
This tool provides a quick and accessible way to formulate balanced rations, vital for optimizing animal growth, production, and health. Its visual nature makes it particularly useful for on-the-farm calculations where complex software or calculators might not be readily available. Developed by Henry Pearson in the early 20th century, it remains a valuable technique for farmers and agricultural professionals.