Best practices for improving feed quality and increasing poultry productivity
The poultry industry is one of the most important agricultural sectors that contribute to meeting the food security needs of many countries. To improve poultry productivity, providing high-quality feed plays a crucial role. Below are the best practices that can be followed to improve feed quality and increase productivity.
1 – Carefully select feed ingredients
Use high-quality grains: such as corn, barley, and oats, which provide the carbohydrates needed for energy.
Add appropriate protein sources: such as soy, fish meal, and animal meal to meet growth needs.
Minerals and vitamins: It is necessary to add nutritional supplements such as calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins to ensure healthy bones and organs.
2 – Ensure the cleanliness and safety of the ingredients
Testing the ingredients before use: to detect mycotoxins and harmful bacteria that may affect the health of the poultry.
Storing the ingredients properly: in dry and dark places to maintain their quality and avoid spoilage.
Using antioxidants: to reduce the oxidation of fats and maintain the nutritional value of the feed.
3 – Improving feed formulation
Designing balanced feed formulations: meeting nutritional needs according to the age and type of poultry (meat or eggs).
Dividing feeding into stages: as the needs of birds differ at each stage of the production cycle (growth, production, fattening).
4 – Feed Processing Techniques
Pelleting: Increases feed palatability and digestion efficiency.
Using added enzymes: such as phytase and xylanase to improve digestion and utilization of nutrients.
Heat sterilization of feed: to eliminate harmful microbes.
5 – Feeding and Distribution Management
Feeding at regular times: helps improve feed consumption and avoid waste.
Reducing waste: using feeders designed to prevent feed spillage.
Ensuring the availability of clean water: because good nutrition requires good hydration.
6 – Continuous monitoring and evaluation
Monitoring feed consumption: to ensure that it is consistent with growth and production rates.
Feed conversion efficiency analysis (FCR): to compare the amount of feed consumed with actual production.
Regular feed testing: to ensure that its quality is consistent and that it meets nutritional standards.
7 – Use of additives to stimulate productivity
Probiotics: to improve gut health and increase nutrient absorption.
Prophylactic antibiotics: when necessary and under veterinary supervision.
Fatty acids and oil supplements: to improve egg or meat quality.
8 – Sustainability in feed production
Recycling agricultural waste: such as rice straw or wheat bran after processing.
Reducing dependence on expensive ingredients: using sustainable local alternatives without compromising quality.
Conclusion
Improving feed quality and increasing poultry productivity requires a comprehensive approach that combines careful selection of ingredients, improved feed formulation, reliance on modern processing technologies, and adherence to sound feeding practices. Investing in these aspects will ensure higher production at lower cost and better quality, benefiting farmers and consumers alike.