Mealworm Feed Calculator Tool (Complete Guide)

Mealworms use wheat bran as their primary feed and bedding. Correct feed planning is one of the most important parts of successful mealworm farming, especially for beginners.

This feed calculator is designed to help you estimate monthly wheat bran requirements, plan storage, and control costs based on your farm size.

This tool does not give exact numbers. Instead, it provides safe working estimates that beginners can adjust with experience.

How Mealworms Consume Feed

Mealworms do not eat feed at a fixed rate every day. Feed consumption depends on:

• Number of mealworms per tray

• Growth stage (small larvae eat less, large larvae eat more)

• Temperature and humidity

• Cleanliness and moisture control

That is why planning feed monthly, not daily, works better.

Standard Feed Assumption Used in This Calculator

For learning purposes, this calculator assumes:

• One standard tray consumes ~1.5 kg wheat bran per month

• Tray depth: 3–4 inches

• Normal stocking density

• Temperature: 24–28°C

If your trays are overcrowded or too cold, feed usage may increase or decrease.

Monthly Wheat Bran Requirement (Reference Table)

This table helps beginners quickly understand how farm size affects feed needs.

Wheat Bran Cost Planning in Pakistan

Wheat bran prices change by:

• City

• Season

• Supplier (chakki or wholesaler)

Typical price range:

Buying in bulk usually reduces cost per kg.

Feed Storage and Handling Best Practices

Poor storage ruins feed quality and causes pests.

Follow these rules:

• Store wheat bran in sealed plastic or cloth bags

• Keep bags off the floor

• Avoid damp rooms

• Protect from ants and insects

• Do not mix old damp bran with fresh bran

Always keep at least one extra month of feed ready.

Moisture Feeding and Its Effect on Feed Use

Mealworms do not drink water directly. Moisture comes from vegetables.

Recommended moisture sources:

• Carrot

• Potato

• Cucumber (small quantity only)

Rules:

• Add small pieces only

• Remove within 24 hours

• Never let bran become wet

Too much moisture increases mold and reduces feed efficiency.

Feed Usage by Farm Size (Practical Examples)

Small Home Setup

• 4 trays

• Monthly feed: ~6 kg

• Easy to manage

• Ideal for beginners

Medium Growing Setup

• 10 trays

• Monthly feed: ~15 kg

• Requires better planning

• Needs regular cleaning

Larger Setup

• 20 trays

• Monthly feed: ~30 kg

• Requires strict hygiene

• Feed storage becomes important