The Best Feed Formulas for Layers and Broilers: Maximize Growth and Egg Production

Feeding your poultry the right diet is the cornerstone of a healthy flock. Whether you’re raising layers for eggs or broilers for meat, the correct feed formula directly impacts growth rates, productivity, immunity, and overall profitability.

Feed Formulas

In this guide, we’ll break down:

1. Nutritional requirements of layers vs. broilers

2. Recommended feed formulas and ingredients

3. Tips for cost-effective and efficient feeding

Understanding Poultry Nutritional Needs

Layers (Egg-Laying Hens)
Layers require feed that supports egg production, shell quality, and longevity. Their diet must be rich in:

• Protein: 16–18% for hens in peak production

• Calcium: 3–4% to ensure strong eggshells

• Vitamins & Minerals: Vitamin D, phosphorus, and trace minerals are crucial

Broilers (Meat Chickens)
Broilers grow quickly, so their feed focuses on rapid weight gain and muscle development:

• Protein: 20–24% for starter and grower stages

• Energy: High-energy grains to support fast growth

• Amino Acids: Lysine and methionine are essential for muscle development

Recommended Feed Formulas

Here are sample feed formulas for small-scale or commercial poultry farming:

1. Layer Feed Formula

• Maize/Corn: 50%

• Soybean Meal: 20%

• Wheat Bran: 10%

• Fish Meal / Bone Meal: 5%

• Limestone Powder: 10% (for calcium)

• Vitamin & Mineral Premix: 5%

This formula ensures layers get adequate protein, calcium, and energy for high egg production and strong shells.

2. Broiler Feed Formula (Starter 0–3 weeks)

• Maize/Corn: 55%

• Soybean Meal: 25%

• Wheat Bran: 10%

• Fish Meal / Bone Meal: 5%

• Oil/Fat: 3%

• Vitamin & Mineral Premix: 2%

3. Broiler Feed Formula (Grower 4–6 weeks)

• Maize/Corn: 60%

• Soybean Meal: 20%

• Wheat Bran: 10%

• Oil/Fat: 3%

• Vitamin & Mineral Premix: 2–3%

Broiler feed should be energy-dense and protein-rich during early growth and slightly reduced protein in later stages to promote lean meat development.

Tips for Feeding Layers and Broilers

1. Consistency is key – Feed your birds at the same time daily to maintain growth and egg production.

2. Fresh water—Always provide clean water. Water and feed go hand in hand.

3. Monitor body condition – Adjust feed quantities if birds are underweight or overweight.

4. Avoid moldy feed—Moldy grains can contain toxins that harm poultry health.

5. Use quality premixes – Vitamins and minerals are vital for immunity and productivity.

6. Consider supplements – Probiotics, enzymes, and omega-3 fatty acids can improve feed conversion and overall health.

The Bottom Line

Providing the right feed formula ensures that your layers produce high-quality eggs consistently and that your broilers reach market weight efficiently. Balanced nutrition improves flock health, reduces disease risks, and maximizes your farm’s profitability.

Pro Tip: Always adjust your feed formula based on bird age, breed, and production goals. What works for one farm may need to be tweaked for another.