Poultry farmers know that nutrition plays a vital role in bird growth, health, and productivity. However, providing the wrong feed at any stage can lead to poor performance, low weight gain, and increased disease risks. Understanding age-wise feed requirements helps in optimizing feed costs and ensuring birds receive the right nutrients for each phase of their growth.
Nutritional Needs at Each Poultry Growth Stage
Chicks, growers, and finishers have different dietary requirements. Feeding them based on their age ensures proper development, reducing mortality and improving overall flock health.
Starter Feed for Chicks (0-4 Weeks)
Newly hatched chicks require a protein-rich diet to support rapid growth and immunity development. Starter feed should contain around 20-22% protein with balanced vitamins and minerals.
Grower Feed for Pullets and Broilers (4-8 Weeks)
As birds grow, their protein needs decrease slightly, but energy requirements increase. Grower feed with 18-20% protein ensures muscle development while maintaining optimal feed conversion ratios.
Finisher Feed for Market Readiness (8+ Weeks)
For broilers, finisher feed focuses on weight gain and meat quality. It typically contains 16-18% protein with an energy-dense formulation to prepare birds for sale.
Layer Feed for Egg Production
Laying hens require feed with a higher calcium level to support eggshell formation. A well-balanced diet with 16-18% protein and essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus ensures better egg quality and production.
Benefits of Age-Specific Feed Recommendations
- Improved feed conversion efficiency reduces production costs
- Proper nutrition enhances immunity and disease resistance
- Balanced feeding ensures higher weight gain and better market value
- Reduces feed wastage by providing the right nutrients at the right time
