Table of Contents
In the broiler farming industry, efficient feeding is the key to obtaining good economic benefits and guaranteeing the quality of chicken products. To achieve this goal, scientific and reasonable feed selection and refined feeding management practices are indispensable. From the selection of feed types to the adjustment of feeding strategies at different growth stages, each link is closely linked to the growth, health, and meat quality of broilers, which has a profound impact.
The importance and role of broiler feed
The Impact of Feed on the Growth and Quality of Broilers
Feed, as the main source of nutrients in the process of broiler growth, directly affects the growth rate of broilers and the final meat quality. High-quality broiler chicken feed can provide balanced nutrition to meet the needs of broilers at different growth stages, thus promoting rapid growth and shortening the breeding cycle. For example, protein-rich feeds help muscle development, resulting in a higher meat yield; while a reasonable supply of energy ensures that broilers have sufficient vigor to maintain normal physiological functions. On the contrary, poor feed quality, missing or unbalanced nutrients may lead to slow growth, substandard weight, or even developmental deformities, which will seriously affect the quality and market value of broilers.
The Core Position of Feed in Broiler Health Management
In addition to affecting growth and quality, feed plays a central role in broiler health management. Vitamins and minerals in the feed are important in maintaining the normal metabolism and immune function of the broiler body. Vitamin A, for example, helps to maintain vision and the integrity of the epithelial tissue of broilers, while vitamins C and E have an antioxidant effect that strengthens the immunity of broilers against diseases. Minerals such as calcium and phosphorus are essential for bone development, and deficiencies in these minerals can lead to skeletal diseases such as rickets in broilers. In addition, the reasonable addition of feed additives, such as probiotics, can help regulate the balance of intestinal flora in broilers, improve digestion and absorption capacity, and reduce the occurrence of intestinal diseases.
Broiler Feed Types and Selection
Common Broiler Feed Types
Common broiler feed mainly includes full-price feed, concentrated feed, and premixed feed. Full-price feed is based on the nutritional requirements of broilers at different stages of growth, a variety of raw materials mixed in a certain proportion, comprehensive nutrition, and can be fed directly. This type of feed is easy to use and suitable for large-scale breeding operations. Concentrated feed is made of protein feed, mineral feed, and additive premix according to a certain proportion, with farmers needing to add their own energy feed (such as corn, wheat, etc.). The cost of this type of feed is relatively low, making it suitable for farmers who have some experience in farming and access to raw material procurement channels. Premixed feed consists of various micro-ingredients, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and drugs, mixed with carriers or diluents in a certain proportion. It is the core part of compound feeds and provides broilers with precise nutritional supplements.
How to Choose the Right Feed According to the Growth Stage
The growth stages of broilers are usually divided into brooding, growing, and fattening periods, and each stage has different nutritional requirements. During the brooding period, the digestive system of broilers is not yet fully developed, requiring nutritious and easily digestible feed. At this time, you should choose a higher crude protein content (generally 20% – 22%) and smaller particle sizes to meet the needs of rapid growth of chicks. Entering the growth period, broiler growth accelerates, and the demand for energy and protein increases, but the digestive system is also gradually developed. Therefore, growth feed with crude protein content of about 18% – 20% can be used, and the proportion of energy feed can be increased appropriately. During the fattening period, to promote fat deposition in broilers and improve meat quality and body weight, broiler feed with higher energy and protein content (around 16% – 18%) should be selected.
For a more detailed breakdown of the feed requirements during each phase, farmers can refer to a 45 days chicken feeding guide and a chicken feed consumption chart, which can help monitor the intake and ensure proper nutrition at every stage.
Analysis of Key Ingredients of Broiler Feed
The Role of Protein, Energy, Vitamins, and Minerals
Protein is the basic substance that constitutes the tissues and cells of the broiler body, and it is vital for muscle growth and feather development. In the process of broiler growth, sufficient protein is needed to meet the needs of its rapid growth. Energy, derived from carbohydrates and fats in the feed, is the source of power for broilers to maintain life activities and growth. A reasonable energy supply can ensure the normal physiological activities and growth rate of broilers. While vitamins and minerals account for a small proportion of the feed, they play an indispensable role in the health and growth of broilers. As mentioned above, vitamins are involved in various physiological metabolic processes, while minerals play a key role in bone development and acid-base balance regulation.
Use of Feed Additives (e.g., Probiotics, Antibiotics)
Feed additives are widely used in broiler farming. Probiotics, as a type of green additive, can regulate the micro-ecological balance of the broiler intestinal tract, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting harmful bacteria. This improves the digestive utilization of feed and enhances broiler immunity. Probiotics like bifidobacteria and lactobacilli can produce various digestive enzymes to help broilers digest and absorb feed nutrients. Antibiotics are useful in preventing and treating broiler diseases, but their long-term irrational use may lead to the development of drug resistance in broilers and pose a potential threat to human health. Therefore, antibiotics should be used cautiously, adhering to dosage requirements and withdrawal periods in accordance with national regulations.
Best Practices in Broiler Rearing Management
Rearing Environment and Equipment (Feeders, Drinkers) Settings
A good rearing environment is the foundation of healthy broiler growth. The chicken coop should be kept clean and dry, with regular sterilization. Feeders and drinkers should be set up reasonably to ensure every broiler has easy access to feed and water. The height of the feeder should be adjusted according to the growth stage of the broiler to minimize feed waste. Drinkers should be kept clean, and drinking water should be changed regularly to prevent bacterial and viral growth. At the same time, the light intensity and duration in the chicken house need to be controlled appropriately, as proper light can promote feeding and growth.
Control of Temperature, Humidity, and Ventilation
Temperature, humidity, and ventilation are essential factors that affect broiler growth. During the brooding period, the temperature should be maintained around 32°C – 35°C, gradually decreasing as the broilers grow. Too high or too low a temperature will affect the growth and health of broilers. High temperatures reduce feed intake and slow growth, while low temperatures increase energy consumption and make broilers more susceptible to respiratory diseases. Humidity should be controlled between 50% – 70%. Excessive humidity leads to mold and bacteria growth, while low humidity dries out the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, increasing the risk of infections. Good ventilation ensures sufficient oxygen supply for broilers and helps expel harmful gases like ammonia and hydrogen sulfide.
Feeding Strategies for Different Growth Stages
Feeding Points During the Brooding Period
The brooding period is a critical time for broiler growth. Key feeding points include temperature control, water management, and proper feeding schedules. As mentioned earlier, stable temperatures should be maintained using heating equipment. Chicks should be supplied with clean drinking water, preferably warm, immediately after hatching, to promote metabolism and yolk absorption. Feed should be provided 2-3 hours after the chicks drink water, with easily digestible feed particles. A small amount, frequent feeding strategy (6-8 times a day) is recommended. During this period, careful monitoring of chicks’ health, feeding, and drinking behavior is important to detect any abnormalities early.
Feed Adjustment During the Growing and Fattening Periods
As broilers enter the growing period, the rate of growth accelerates. The nutritional composition and feeding amounts should be adjusted accordingly. Increase the proportion of energy-rich feed to meet the broiler’s growing energy needs. Ensure feed quality and freshness, avoiding moldy or spoiled feed. During the fattening period, nutrient composition should be adjusted again. Additionally, light time and intensity should be controlled to encourage fat deposition and improve meat quality.
Benefits of High-Quality Feed on Broiler Growth and Quality
Improving Growth Rate and Meat Quality
High-quality feed provides comprehensive and balanced nutrition, which significantly improves broiler growth speed. Broilers consuming high-quality feed gain weight faster and reach market weight earlier, saving both time and costs. The nutritional components in high-quality feeds also enhance meat quality, making the meat tender, juicy, and flavorful. For instance, a proper balance of fatty acids improves both the flavor and nutritional value of chicken meat, which appeals more to consumers.
Reducing Disease Incidence
Vitamins, minerals, and probiotics in high-quality feed enhance broiler immunity and reduce disease incidence. A strong immune system helps broilers resist pathogens, leading to lower morbidity and mortality. This not only reduces the need for medications, lowering costs, but also ensures the safety of chicken products, meeting the growing demand for green and healthy food.
Common Problems and Solutions in Broiler Breeding
Prevention of Feed Waste
Feed waste is a common issue in broiler farming, leading to increased costs and potential environmental pollution. To prevent feed waste, it is essential to select the appropriate feeder size and shape for the broiler’s growth stage. Feeding amounts should be adjusted based on the broilers’ actual consumption, avoiding overfeeding. Feed quality should be regularly inspected to ensure it is not moldy or spoiled. Regular training of farm personnel on proper feeding techniques can further reduce waste.
Drinking Water Management and Disease Prevention
Ensuring clean drinking water is critical to broiler health. Unclean water is a major cause of disease spread. Drinking vessels should be cleaned and disinfected regularly. Adequate water supply is essential, especially during hot weather when broiler water intake increases. Adding vitamins and electrolytes to drinking water can help strengthen broiler immunity, boost stress resistance, and prevent disease outbreaks.
Scientific rearing is the key to achieving high efficiency and profitability. The foundation includes choosing high-quality feed and chicks. Subsequently, feeding strategies should be adjusted based on broiler growth stages, ensuring optimal nutrient composition and feed amounts. Disease prevention is also crucial to minimize mortality. By understanding market dynamics and carefully timing slaughtering, farmers can maximize profits. Continuous learning and the introduction of advanced breeding techniques will further improve profitability and efficiency.
