Broiler nutrition a focus on the early stages of growth

The Moderna poultry industry seeks to maximize the efficiency in meat production, and nutrition plays a crucial role in this process, broiler chicken has been genetically selected for rapid growth, which implies a very specific and demanding nutritional demand. A well-structured feeding plan is essential to ensure optimal development, good productive performance and the health of the bird, especially in the early stages of its life.

The first 21 days of the broiler's life are the most critical phase.This period is known as the initiation phase.During this time, the bird experiences exponential growth in size and weight. The digestive tract and the immune system are in full development, so the diet must be highly digestible and rich in essential nutrients, a high-quality diet at this stage lays the foundations for success in the rest of the life cycle.

The nutritional requirements during the initiation phase focus on a high protein and energy content, the protein must be of excellent quality, with a balanced amino acid profile, especially lysine, methionine and threonine, these amino acids are fundamental for the formation of muscle and tissue. Energy, coming from fats and carbohydrates, is necessary to support rapid growth and metabolic functions, chickens at this stage need a precise balance of calcium and phosphorus for bone development, as well as an adequate supply of vitamins and minerals for a robust immune system.

The feed consumption in the first 21 days is relatively low in terms of total quantity, but its impact is enormous, the composition of the feed must be adjusted to the physiological needs of the chick. Pre-starter and starter foods are used, which usually have a high concentration of nutrients, often in the form of fine granules or crumbs to facilitate consumption. Any deficiency in this period can result in poor growth, increased susceptibility to diseases and worse feed conversion in later stages.

From the 21st day, the broiler enters the growth phase, and subsequently in the completion phase. The transition from 21 to 42 days marks a change in nutritional priorities. Although muscle growth remains the main objective, the bird has reached a size and digestive maturity that allow it to process diets with a lower nutrient density, the requirements of crude protein decrease, while the focus shifts towards greater efficiency in the conversion of feed.

In the growth phase (approximately from 21 to 35 days), the diet is still rich in energy and protein, but the concentration of these nutrients may be lower than in the initiation phase. The objective is to maximize weight gain and feed efficiency, the formulation of the feed in this phase seeks to optimize the relationship between the cost of the feed and the performance of the chicken. Adequate levels of essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals are maintained, adjusted to the increased consumption of bird food.

The completion phase (from 35 days to slaughter, typically around 42 days) focuses on the meat deposit and carcass quality, the protein requirements decrease further, and the diet is formulated to optimize intramuscular fat deposition and breast yield. The control of the energy level and the inclusion of additives that promote digestion and intestinal health are key at this stage, the ultimate goal is a healthy chicken, with an ideal weight and excellent meat quality for the consumer.

In summary, broiler nutrition is a dynamic process that adapts to the changing needs of the bird throughout its life, a solid start of life, with impeccable nutrition in the first 21 days, is the key to a successful development. As the chicken matures, the requirements are adjusted to optimize efficiency, weight gain and the quality of the final product. Proper nutritional management at each stage is essential for the profitability of poultry production and obtaining a high-quality product.