Raising healthy broiler chicks starts with good feed. The food you give them helps them grow fast, stay strong, and avoid getting sick. Choosing the right types of feed for broiler chicks is the first step in giving them a healthy life.
In the early days, chicks were small and fragile. They need food that is easy to eat and full of nutrients. The feed should give them energy, help their bones grow, and build strong muscles. Using the right kind of feed at the right time can make a big difference in how well your chicks grow.
Why Feed Type Matters for Broiler Growth
Broiler chicks grow very fast. They reach market size in just a few weeks. To support this quick growth, their food needs to be perfect. The types of feed for broiler chicks should be adjusted as they grow older.
- Chicks need protein to build muscles.
- Vitamins and minerals help their bones and immune system.
- The right feed keeps them active and happy.
If you give poor-quality feed, your chicks may grow slowly. They can get sick easily or even die. Therefore, the type of feed is crucial.
Starter Feed: Fuel for the First Weeks
Starter feed is the first feed given to broiler chicks. It is used from day 1 to around 10–14 days old. This feed is soft, small, and full of nutrients. It helps chicks grow quickly during the early days of life.
Key features of starter feed:
- High protein (around 22–24%)
- Rich in vitamins like A, D, and E
- Crumbled form for easy eating
Benefits of starter feed:
- Supports fast weight gain
- Boosts early bone growth
- Builds strong immunity
Starter feed is essential in the first two weeks. It sets the stage for the rest of the broiler’s life.
Grower Feed: The Next Step to Strong Growth
After the chicks are 2–3 weeks old, it’s time for grower feed. This feed helps them continue growing quickly. The protein level is a bit lower than starter feed, but it’s still high.
What makes grower feed special?
- Protein content around 20–21%
- Balanced energy for strong muscle growth
- Includes fiber for better digestion
Advantages of using grower feed:
- Helps build body mass
- Keeps feathers healthy
- Prepares birds for the final growing phase
Giving grower feed on time is important. If you wait too long, your broilers might miss key nutrients they need during this stage.
Finisher Feed: Getting Ready for Market
Finisher feed is used in the last stage of growth. Broilers get this feed in the final 5–7 days before they are ready to sell. This feed helps them gain weight fast and build the right amount of fat and muscle.
Finisher feed details:
- Protein around 18–19%
- Higher energy level for quick weight gain
- Bigger pellets to match their size
Benefits of finisher feed:
- Makes broilers market-ready faster
- Adds the right amount of body fat
- Keeps meat soft and tasty
Using finisher feed too early can lead to too much fat. So, use it only at the proper age.
Pre-Starter Feed: Boosting Early Growth
Some farmers use pre-starter feed in the first 3–5 days. It is even softer and easier to digest than starter feed. This feed gives very young chicks the boost they need right after hatching.
Why use pre-starter feed?
- Very high in protein (24–25%)
- Full of easy-to-digest ingredients
- Includes extra vitamins and minerals
Good things about pre-starter feed:
- Helps weaker chicks catch up
- Improves early survival
- Builds stronger bones and muscles
Though not always used, pre-starter feed can help improve overall flock health.
Medicated Feed: Fighting Early Health Risks
In the early stages, chicks are at risk for diseases. Some farmers use medicated feed to protect their animals. This feed has small amounts of medicine to prevent common illnesses like coccidiosis.
Facts about medicated feed:
- Often used during the first few weeks
- Should be stopped before market time
- Needs vet approval in many places
When to use medicated feed:
- If you have had many health problems in the past batches
- If chicks come from weak parent stock
- On farms with poor hygiene
Always check local rules before using this type of feed.
Vaccination Schedule for Broiler Chicks
Non-Medicated Feed: A Natural Choice
Some people avoid using medicine in feed. They prefer non-medicated feed, which uses natural methods to keep chicks healthy. This can include herbs, probiotics, or better hygiene.
Why choose non-medicated feed?
- Safer for long-term use
- Keeps antibiotic use low
- Meets organic farm rules
Tips for success with non-medicated feed:
- Keep living areas very clean
- Use natural supplements
- Choose high-quality feed ingredients
This type of feed works best when combined with good management.
Mash, Crumbles, and Pellets: Different Feed Forms
The types of feed for broiler chicks also include the physical form: mash, crumbles, and pellets. Each has a different texture and size. The right form depends on the age and size of your chicks.
Mash Feed:
- Fine and powdery
- Best for small chicks
- Easy to digest
Crumbles:
- Small, broken pellets
- Good for middle-aged broilers
- Less waste compared to mash
Pellets:
- Hard, shaped pieces
- For older birds near market time
- Helps reduce feed loss
Changing feed form with age can help improve feed intake and reduce waste.
Homemade Feed: Is It a Good Idea?
Some farmers make feed at home to save money. This can work if done right. But it must be done carefully to make sure the feed has all the right nutrients.
Pros of homemade feed:
- Can be cheaper
- Uses local ingredients
- Let’s you control what goes in
Risks of homemade feed:
- May miss key nutrients
- Hard to balance protein, energy, and vitamins
- Takes more time and effort
If you want to make your own feed, get help from a poultry expert or nutritionist.
Feed Additives That Help Broiler Chicks
Even good feed can use a boost. Some additives can make feed work better. These are added in small amounts but give big benefits.
Common feed additives:
- Probiotics: help digestion
- Enzymes: break down food better
- Vitamins: boost health and growth
- Minerals: strengthen bones
Adding the right mix can make your chicks grow faster and stay healthier.
Choosing the Best Feed for Your Farm
The best types of feed for broiler chicks depend on your goals, budget, and environment. Think about the chick’s age, your location, and feed availability.
What to check before choosing feed:
- Protein and energy levels
- Freshness of ingredients
- Brand reputation
- If it meets age needs (starter, grower, finisher)
A poor choice in feed can waste money and time. A smart choice brings better profits.
Storing Feed the Right Way
Good feed can go bad if not stored right. Broiler chicks need fresh, clean feed every day. Poor storage can lead to mold or bugs.
Storage tips:
- Keep feed in dry, cool places
- Use air-tight bins or bags
- Check for smell or color changes
- Don’t store feed too long
Old or spoiled feed can harm chicks and slow down growth.
FAQs About Types of Feed for Broiler Chicks
Around day 14, once the chicks are stronger and eating more.
It’s not the best. Using proper types of feed for broiler chicks at each stage helps them grow faster and healthier.
Yes, when used with care. Always follow the label and local rules.
Keep feed available all the time. They need to eat often for fast growth.
Conclusion: Feed Smart, Raise Strong
Feeding your broiler chicks the right way is key to raising healthy birds. Use the correct types of feed for broiler chicks at each stage of their life. Start with high-protein feed, move to grower feed, and finish strong with finisher feed.
Don’t forget to:
- Choose quality feed
- Keep feed fresh
- Adjust feed forms as chicks grow
With the right plan, your chicks will grow fast, stay healthy, and bring better returns. Feed smart, raise strong!
