🐥 Broiler Feed Categories (Meat Birds)
Broilers are raised for meat and therefore require high-energy, high-protein feeds that change as they grow.
1. Broiler Starter Feed
Purpose:
- Designed for chicks from day-old to ~2–3 weeks of age.
- High protein (~20–24%) to support early growth, healthy bones, and digestive development.
Typical Code/Label:
- Broiler Starter Feed (Act 36 registered product — feed bags list a registration number).
Typical Price (South Africa):
- ~R280 per 40 kg bag (prices vary by brand and location).
- Retailers may charge R500–R550+ per 50 kg bag for premium feeds.
2. Broiler Grower Feed
Purpose:
- Fed from ~3 weeks to ~5 weeks.
- Balanced energy and protein levels (slightly lower protein than starter); supports rapid muscle and frame growth.
Typical Code/Label:
- Broiler Grower Feed (Act 36 registered).
Typical Price:
- ~R215–R260 per 40 kg bag.
- Premium branded 50 kg can be R480–R550.
3. Broiler Finisher Feed
Purpose:
- Used from ~5 weeks to slaughter age (6–8 weeks).
- Lower protein, higher energy to increase weight gain and feed efficiency.
Typical Code/Label:
- Broiler Finisher Feed (Act 36 registered).
Typical Price:
- ~R205–R260 per 40 kg bag.
- Premium 50 kg bags often R485+.
Summary (Broiler Feed Prices)
| Feed Type | Retail Weight | Typical Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Broiler Starter | 40 kg | R280 |
| Broiler Grower | 40 kg | R215–R260 |
| Broiler Finisher | 40 kg | R205–R260 |
| Premium Branded 50 kg | 50 kg | R480–R550+ |
🐔 Layer Feed Categories (Egg-Producing Birds)
Layers have different nutrient needs, especially calcium for eggshell formation and phases of laying.
1. Layer Starter / Pullet Grower
Purpose:
- Layer Starter / Pullet Grower Feed is for young pullets (up to point-of-lay).
- Supports skeletal growth and prepares birds metabolically for laying.
Typical Code/Label:
- Pullets Grower / Layer Starter (Act 36 registered).
Typical Price:
- ~R390–R420 per 40 kg bag (premium).
2. Layer Feed / Layer Mash / Layer Pellets
Purpose:
- Primary feed for laying hens.
- Higher calcium (~3–4%) for strong eggshells; moderate energy and protein for egg production.
Typical Code/Label:
- Layer Mash / Layer Pellets (Act 36 registered).
Typical Price:
- ~R390–R420 per 40 kg bag for premium grade.
- Some basic layer feeds cost ~R330 per 50 kg bag in certain markets.
Summary (Layer Feed Prices)
| Feed Type | Typical Weight | Approx. Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pullet Grower / Layer Starter | 40 kg | R390–R420+ |
| Layer Mash / Layer Pellets | 40 kg | R390–R420+ |
| Basic Layer Feed | 50 kg | ~R330 |
📌 How Feeds Are Identified (Codes & Labels)
Act 36 Registration Numbers
- In South Africa, all commercial feeds must be registered under the Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act (Act 36 of 1947).
- Each product carries a registration number (e.g., “Reg. No. Act 36/1947: VXXXXX”) printed on the bag.
- These numbers are unique to the specific feed product/supplier but do not form a consumer-friendly numeric code system. Instead, the feed type name (e.g., “Broiler Starter”) is what farmers use to select feeds.