Poultry Nutrition

How much of the cost of poultry production is due to food?

70%

Which amino acids are often limiting in poultry diets?

Lysine, methionine and threonine. Birds can convert cysteine into other sulphur-containing compounds like methionine. Their requirement is usually expressed as the sum of total sulphur amino acids (TSAA).

How are the mineral requirements of layers different to other poultry?

Layers need a calcium:phosphorous ratio of 13:1 while other poultry generally need a ratio of 2:1.

What is chick food like?

Highly palatable, crude protein requirement of 22%, lysine and methionine supplements needed. Chick grit are small, fine stones fed to birds to facilitate grinding of foodstuff in the gizzard.

What is pullet food like?

Usually given ad lib, protein is reduced from 18% to 14% at 6 weeks old to prevent excessive growth. Cysteine is needed to form keratin, and methionine is needed for adequate feathering.

What is layer food like?

Usually given ab lib.

What is broiler food like?

Housing temperature is critical to maximise food intake. Metabolisable energy intake can be increased by reducing the fibrous content of food and increasing the fat and corn content. NaCl may be added to the diet to improve protein utilisation and counteract feather pecking.