The challenge
Feeding young poultry properly is a
challenge for several reasons. The intestinal
tract is not fully developed when the frst
feed is ingested and the activity of digestive
enzymes is low after hatch. That means
that complex nutrients are not utilized
effciently during a period of which growth
and development progresses rapidly and
dietary needs are high. The limited
digestible capacity during the frst days
requires a special diet that contains easily
digestible protein and fat sources.
The use of relatively low digestible protein
sources like rapeseed meal or sunfower
meal simply does not give optimal nutrient
supplementation in this period. Use of
such protein sources also leaves behind
undigested protein in the intestinal tract.
This presents a substrate for harmful
bacteria like E.coli and Clostridiumwho
beneft from this undigested protein source,
resulting in digestive problems and wet
droppings. The key to success therefore
importantly lies in the feeding method
during the vulnerable and vital early
developmental stage.
Nutrient requirements are especially high
during the period of early development.
This is to fuel developmental processes
and to secure the presence of building
blocks needed to develop a functional
body. During the frst week a broiler
develops mainly its digestive tract, liver,
heart and sensory organs (brain) while
muscle and bone tissue are primarily
formed during later stages. That is why the
effect of optimal early development results
also in long term growth improvements
and increased metabolic capacity.
ProGress Broilers