posted 3 months ago
When I started my first batch of broilers, I was excited but also overwhelmed by the number of feed brands on the market. I remember standing in front of the feed store, staring at bags labeled Topfeeds, Vital Feeds, Hybrid, Animal Care, and Chikun, wondering which one would help my birds grow fastest and healthiest in just six weeks.
Over the years, I’ve tried almost every major brand, made mistakes, and learned valuable lessons. Here’s my story, along with tips and insights to help you choose the best feed for your broilers.
The Early Days: Learning the Hard Way
My first batch of 50 broilers was a mix of excitement and anxiety. I chose a cheaper, lesser-known feed brand to save money. At first, the chicks seemed fine, but by the third week, I noticed uneven growth. Some birds were thriving, while others lagged behind. I realized that not all feeds are created equal—quality matters.
Tip: Don’t be tempted by the lowest price. Cheap feed can cost you more in the long run through poor growth and higher mortality.
Experimenting with Popular Brands
Topfeeds: Consistency is Key
After my rocky start, I switched to Topfeeds on a friend’s recommendation. The difference was clear within two weeks. The birds were more active, their feathers looked healthier, and their weight gain was more uniform. I also noticed less feed wastage, probably because the birds found the feed more palatable.
Insight: Consistency in feed quality leads to consistency in bird growth. Topfeeds became my go-to for a while, especially when I wanted predictable results.
Vital Feeds: For Strong Immunity
Curious to see if I could do even better, I tried Vital Feeds for my next batch. I was impressed by how robust the birds became. They seemed less prone to common diseases, and their droppings were firmer, which made cleaning easier.
Tip: If you’re raising broilers during the rainy season or in a high-risk area for disease, a feed like Vital Feeds that supports immunity can be a game-changer.
Hybrid Feeds: Budget-Friendly, But Monitor Closely
There was a time when my budget was tight, so I opted for Hybrid Feeds. The price was right, and the birds grew decently, but I had to pay closer attention. I supplemented with vitamins and made sure the feed was always fresh.
Advice: If you use a more affordable brand, be proactive. Monitor your birds’ growth weekly and be ready to supplement if needed.
Animal Care Feeds: Premium Performance
When I wanted to push for the best possible results, I invested in Animal Care Feeds. The birds grew fast, with excellent feed conversion. I noticed less feed wastage and firmer droppings, which meant better digestion and less mess.
Insight: Sometimes, paying a bit more for premium feed pays off in faster growth and less overall waste.
Chikun Feeds: Early Market Weight
One of my most surprising experiences was with Chikun Feeds. My broilers reached market weight a few days earlier than usual, which meant I could sell them sooner and start a new batch. The birds also had strong legs and good feathering.
Tip: If you’re aiming for quick turnover, Chikun Feeds might be worth a try.
Lessons Learned: How to Choose the Right Feed
[*] Ask Around: Talk to local farmers. Sometimes, a brand performs better in one region than another due to ingredient sourcing.
[*] Try Small Batches: Test a new feed with a small group before switching your entire flock.
[*] Monitor Closely: Weigh your birds weekly and keep records. If you notice slow growth, don’t hesitate to switch brands.
[*] Check for Freshness: Always inspect feed for mold or off smells. Even the best brand can have a bad batch.
[*] Stage-Specific Feeding: Use starter, grower, and finisher feeds at the right times for optimal results.
How Much Feed Will You Need?
No matter which brand you choose, knowing how much feed to buy is crucial. On average, each broiler will eat about 4-5 kg of feed from day-old to market weight (6 weeks). For 50 broilers, that’s about 200-250 kg of feed.
For a detailed breakdown by week, or to calculate feed for larger flocks, don't miss my comprehensive guide:
Click Here for the Full Broiler Feed Calculation Guide – Plan Your Next Batch with Confidence!
What About You?
[*] Which feed brand has worked best for your broilers?
[*] Have you noticed differences in growth, health, or feed wastage between brands?
[*] Do you have any tips for getting the most out of your chosen feed?
I’d love to hear your stories and advice! Let’s help each other raise healthier, more profitable broilers.
If you have questions or want to share your experience, drop a comment below. And remember to check out the feed calculation guide for even more tips on planning your next successful batch!
