For this reason, broiler feeds are usually prepared with different formulations for the different rearing periods.
Broiler feeds can basically be grouped as:
- Starter feed
- Grower feed
- Finisher feed
Starter Feed
Starter feed is used in the chicks’ first period of development.
During this period, the bird’s skeletal, muscle and organ development continue rapidly. The nutrient density of the feed, and especially its amino acid balance, are therefore important.
In starter feed, the following are usually taken into account:
- High-quality protein sources
- A suitable amino acid balance
- Sufficient energy
- Vitamin and mineral support
Bioyem broiler starter feed is prepared according to the nutrient needs of the first period of rearing.
Grower Feed
As broilers grow, their feed utilisation and nutrient needs change.
In the grower period, while muscle development and live weight gain continue, the energy and protein balance of the ration is adjusted again.
The aim in this period is not just to increase feed intake, but to help the feed consumed turn efficiently into live weight gain.
Finisher Feed
Finisher feed is used in the final rearing period before slaughter.
At this stage, while the bird’s live weight gain continues, the energy, protein and amino acid balance of the ration is reassessed.
The formulation of finisher feed may differ from that of the earlier rearing periods.
Why Not Use a Single Feed?
Broilers’ needs change as their age and live weight increase.
The nutrient density needed for rapid development in the first period is not the same as the needs in the later stages of rearing.
Rather than using a single feed throughout the rearing period, using feeds suited to the different periods is therefore a more correct feeding approach.
Protein Content Is Not All That Matters in Feed Formulation
When assessing a broiler feed, looking only at the crude protein content is not enough.
The energy–protein balance, amino acid profile, digestibility, vitamin and mineral levels and the quality of the raw materials used should be assessed together.
The balance of essential amino acids such as lysine, methionine and threonine in particular is important for broiler development.
What to Look for in Organic Broiler Feeds
In organic broiler feeds, as well as meeting the bird’s nutrient needs, the raw materials used and the feed production process must comply with the relevant organic production rules.
An organic feed should therefore be assessed not only in terms of its formulation, but also in terms of the organic status of the raw materials used and the production process.
In Which Periods Are Broiler Feeds Used?
The periods may vary according to the farm’s rearing programme and the feed programme used.
The Bioyem broiler feed programme is basically built on the following periods:
- Starter: 0–20 days
- Grower: 21–42 days
- Finisher: day 43 onwards
These periods can be technically reassessed according to rearing conditions and the birds’ development.
Summary
The main difference between broiler feeds is that they are formulated to suit the nutrient needs that change with the rearing period.
Starter, grower and finisher feeds are not used for the same purpose.
In the right feed programme, not only the protein content but also energy, amino acid balance, vitamin and mineral content, raw material quality and the bird’s rearing period should be assessed together.