Fodder composition optimization using modified genetic algorithm

Abstract

Determination of the fodder composition is a difficult process because it should simultaneously consider several constraints, such as minimizing the total cost of feed ingredients and maximizing the nutrient needs required by livestock. This study uses a modified genetic algorithm to solve the problem in order to obtain better results. The modification is done by applying numerical methods in generating an initial population of the genetic algorithm. Testing results show that the optimal parameters that can be used to produce the optimal solution are as follows: population size (popsize) is 300, generation number is 400, crossover rate (cr) value is 0.2, and mutation rate (mr) value is 0.6. The modified genetic algorithm provides an average fitness value of 0.142357, while the classical genetic algorithm provides an average fitness value of 0.094354. With additional computational time equal to 110 ms, the use of modified genetic algorithm offered has proven to provide a better result, with a higher fitness value compared with classical genetic algorithm.