Getting feed formulation right
Traditionally, broiler diets have been formulated to promote maximum animal performance. However, this type of highly concentrated and protein-rich diet can be costly and impact profitability.
We recommend a comprehensive approach to formulating diets that ensures the farmer can optimises broiler performance and production while maintaining animal health and welfare and meeting sustainability goals. This includes consideration of raw material costs, market conditions, revenue generated and use of new or alternative feed ingredients.
Why is it important
In broiler production, the growth and feed intake of the birds are of key importance. Adequate diets and the right feed formulation is pivotal to make sure the birds start eating as early as possible and ingest the right amount of nutrients for growth and meat production.
Optimised feed formulation results in high feed intakes and growth. This has a direct impact on flock uniformity, production and hence farm profitability.
The impact on the farmer
The quality of poultry meat is determined by multiple factors including genetics, management, processing and animal nutrition. Certain feed ingredients or supplements such as vitamin E and selenium may also impact poultry carcass and meat quality. Low quality meat can directly affect a broiler producer’s profits. We recommend formulating diets based on accurate nutrient values of the ingredients and using a model that focuses on optimising margin per bird on a live weight basis or maximises breast meat yield.