Poultry Feed Formulation and Preparation: Nutrient Requirements and Methods
Poultry feed formulation is the process of combining different feed ingredients in appropriate proportions to provide broilers and layers with a balanced supply of essential nutrients. An effective formulation considers the nutrient requirements of birds at different ages, the nutrient composition and cost of ingredients, feed quality, and proper mixing procedures.
This article discusses the basic principles of poultry feed formulation and preparation, including ingredient selection, critical nutrient evaluation, feed additives and supplements, and practical considerations for producing a cost-effective, nutritionally balanced feed.
Before formulating the ration, remember that no feed ingredient is essential, but all nutrients are essential. The formulated feed must satisfy the recommended nutrient requirements of broilers or layers.
The formulated feed must contain all the recommended nutrients at the lowest possible cost. For this purpose, one should be aware of the following:
- Type of feed to be formulated
- The nutrient requirements of the birds at different ages, i.e., the levels of different nutrients that should be present in the feed
- Availability and cost of different feed ingredients
- Nutrient composition of the feed ingredients
Based on the cost, quality, and availability, select the ingredients to be mixed in the feed and ensure that their inclusion levels meet the nutrient requirements of broilers or layers. During manual feed formulation, it is sufficient to check the critical nutrient levels, such as protein, energy, lysine, and methionine. If these levels are met, good-quality mineral and vitamin mixtures can be added at the recommended levels. Invariably, the feed will be a balanced one, meeting all the nutrient requirements. If a computer is used for feed formulation, the levels of all the nutrients can be checked.
First, formulate a tentative feed formula, calculate the critical nutrient levels using the available data, and compare these values with the recommended levels. If the calculated nutrient levels are in accordance with the recommended levels, the feed formula can be adopted as such. If the tentative feed formula does not meet the recommended critical nutrient levels, make minor alterations to the feed formula to satisfy the nutrient requirements. Check the composition again and alter the formula if necessary until the recommended nutrient levels are met. Next, add the recommended feed additives or supplements. The formula is now complete, and the feed can proceed to mixing.
Homemade feed should be in no way inferior to commercially manufactured feed in quality, but it should be cheaper by at least 5–10 percent; otherwise, there is little benefit in opting for homemade feed. Even the best feed formulation will not give good results if the feed ingredients are of poor quality. With experience, producers can learn to identify the quality of feed ingredients. Based on the formula, calculate the exact quantities of different feed ingredients required per batch. First, weigh all the ingredients that need to be ground, such as grains, oilseed meals, fish meal, etc., and grind them together.
Later, add the weighed quantities of mineral mixture, meat meal, rice bran, etc., that do not require grinding. Prepare a premix of all the medications, supplements, or additives; mix them with a small quantity of ground ingredients, such as rice bran, oilseed meal, or maize meal, and then add the premix to the remaining feed ingredients and mix thoroughly. Avoid excessive dust during grinding and mixing to prevent the loss of nutrients. Ensure thorough mixing using a horizontal or vertical mixer. Make the feed mixing and storage area rodent-proof and locate it in an elevated, well-drained area. Finish the floor and walls with seepage-resistant cement concrete. When not in use, keep the doors closed.
