Thread by @agribusinesszw

Optimizing Broiler Feed Conversion Ratio (a thread)

Feed conversion ratio (FCR) is a measure of how well a flock converts feed intake (feed usage) into live weight. #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (1/20)

Small changes in FCR at any given feed price will have a substantial impact on financial margins. Solving, or preventing, FCR problems in a flock requires both good planning and good management #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (2/20)

The key to preventing FCR problems is ensuring that throughout the brooding and grow-out period, good management practices are in place so that bird performance is optimized #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (3/20)

Determining the scale of the problem
Before investigating the cause of an FCR problem, it is necessary to be certain that a problem does exist. For this, normal patterns and patterns of change in FCR must be identified and understood #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (4/20)

Having established that a real problem exists, the next step is to determine the scale of the problem .

Determining the cause of an FCR problem.
There are a number of different factors that can negatively impact flock FCR #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (5/20)

Hatchery management: conditions during the hatching process will affect growth rates and FCR through their effect on gut development. (6/20)

Inappropriate conditions during chick transport
can also impair early chick development and final flock FCR.

Brooding: the brooding period is a critical time for gut development and hence the efficiency of feed utilization. #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising (7/20)

Inappropriate conditions during chick transport
can also impair early chick development and final flock FCR.

Brooding: the brooding period is a critical time for gut development and hence the efficiency of feed utilization #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (7/20)

Management during this time is therefore key #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (8/20)

Measurement failure: over-estimation of actual feed usage and / or under-estimation of actual live weight will inevitably lead to an apparent worsening of FCR which is not real #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (9/20)

Feeding management: inappropriate feeding and feeder management will affect flock FCR through its effect on feed intake and feed spillage. Feeding space, feeder height and the provision of good quality feed is important #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (10/20)

Water management: the provision of adequate drinking space and a source of clean water is
essential. A reduction in water intake will lead to a reduction in feed intake and an increase in FCR #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (11/20)

Temperature: maintaining the correct environmental temperature and avoiding temperature fluctuations is important if FCR is to be optimized #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (12/20)

Feeding program: the provision of the correct nutrient density at the correct age will optimize feed intake and growth, and ensure the efficient utilization of nutrients #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (13/20)

Feed formulation and manufacturing: errors during the feed manufacturing process are difficult to diagnose but can lead to feeds of reduced quality being offered to the birds, affecting FCR #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising.

Mortality and disease: high mortality, (14/20)

especially late mortality, will result in a significant increase in flock FCR. Causes of mortality should be rapidly identified so that appropriate corrective
actions can be put in place #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (15/20)

Biosecurity: a good biosecurity program is essential for maintaining bird health and optimizing
performance #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (16/20)

Pre-slaughter: feed withdrawal is a necessary part of the slaughter process and should be done hours before the expected slaughter time #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (17/20)

It is important that feed withdrawal is timed accurately as excessive periods without feed prior to slaughter will result in a loss in body weight and an increase in FCR #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (18/20)

Conclusion
FCR problems have a significant economic impact. Any factor which affects the feed usage, growth or health of the broiler will worsen flock FCR . Correcting an FCR problem requires communication and coordination.. #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (19/20)

across the whole production unit. Traceability and accountability at every level is necessary #agribusinesstalk #ZimAgricRising. (20/20) ROSS