Broiler grower feed is a type of feed formulated for young broiler chickens during the middle stage of their growth cycle. It’s typically provided to broilers from around 4 to 6 weeks of age until they are ready for finishing, usually around 12 to 16 weeks old, depending on the specific growth rate and target market weight.
Here are some key features of broiler grower feed:
- Moderate Protein Content: Broiler grower feed contains a slightly lower protein content compared to starter feed but is still relatively high to support continued growth and muscle development. Protein levels typically range from 16% to 18%.
- Balanced Nutrition: Similar to starter feed, broiler grower feed provides a balanced blend of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to support the overall health and development of broiler chickens during the grower phase.
- Energy Sources: The feed contains energy sources such as grains (e.g., corn, wheat, barley) and fats/oils to provide the necessary energy for growth and maintenance.
- Amino Acids: Broiler grower feed includes essential amino acids like lysine, methionine, and threonine to support muscle development and overall protein synthesis.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, D, E, K, and various minerals like calcium and phosphorus, are included to support bone health, immune function, and overall metabolic processes.
- Formulation Considerations: The formulation of broiler grower feed may vary based on factors such as the breed of broilers, environmental conditions, and specific production goals. It’s typically designed to promote steady growth and efficient feed conversion.
- Feeding Program: Broiler grower feed is usually provided ad libitum (available at all times) to ensure that broilers have continuous access to feed, allowing them to consume as needed to support their growth and development.
Broiler Grower Composition ?
- Protein Sources:
- Soybean meal: A primary source of high-quality protein.
- Fish meal: Provides essential amino acids and is highly digestible.
- Meat and bone meal: Another protein-rich ingredient derived from animal sources.
- Canola meal: Provides additional protein and energy.
- Energy Sources:
- Corn: A major energy source in poultry diets, providing carbohydrates.
- Wheat: Another common energy source that complements corn.
- Barley: Sometimes included in formulations for energy.
- Sorghum (milo): Provides carbohydrates and energy.
- Supplementary Ingredients:
- Fats and oils: Added to enhance energy density and improve palatability.
- Molasses: Used as a flavor enhancer and energy source.
- Rice bran: Provides additional energy and fiber.
- Dried whey: High in protein and lactose, beneficial for young chicks.
- Vitamins:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- Various B vitamins (e.g., thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, etc.)
- Minerals:
- Calcium: Essential for bone development and muscle function.
- Phosphorus: Important for bone health and metabolism.
- Sodium: Regulates fluid balance and nerve function.
- Potassium: Essential for muscle function and electrolyte balance.
- Magnesium: Involved in enzyme function and bone health.
- Trace minerals: Including iron, zinc, manganese, copper, selenium, etc.
- Amino Acids:
- Lysine
- Methionine
- Threonine
- Tryptophan
- Other essential and non-essential amino acids to support growth and development.
- Feed Additives:
- Antibiotics or antimicrobials (where permitted) for disease prevention and growth promotion.
- Coccidiostats: Added to prevent coccidiosis, a common intestinal disease.
- Probiotics or prebiotics: Included to support gut health and digestion.
Broiler grower feed formulations are carefully balanced to meet the nutritional requirements of broiler chickens during the intermediate stage of their growth cycle, promoting steady growth and development while optimizing feed efficiency and overall performance.
