19 % protein for broilers? Does that sound ok or should I go with something else?

[ElCerritoPlace]

So the mill that I get my layer feed from sells a 19% protein organic feed for broilers ($20 for 50#s). They have nonGMO and regular as well but its all 19%. That seems a little low to me from what I've been reading. They are going to be in a tractor and moved around the yard but not sure how much foraging they will actually do.

I can probably get different feed from our feed store but its going to cost more if I go with organic feed ($30/50#).

Just wondering what everyones thoughts are on 19% protein. This is my first year trying broilers from Sunnyside Hatchery. Thanks!

 

[ChickenCanoe]

That's fine. I use something a little higher(20-24) for the first 5 weeks but lower later (16-18) so I don't think 19 will hurt anything.

 

[Ibicella]

I have a similar question. I've got dual-purpose and meaty chicks and some ducklings coming tomorrow, and had to buy 18% non-medicated chick starter for the lot. We have one place I can get feed, and they were out of everything else.

I can't get more feed right now. This is what I have to work with. I was wondering if I could/should supplement by picking up some dried mealworms and stick them them in the blender to finely grind them as a supplement for the ducks and meaties to up their protein? Would they need grit for powdered meal worms?

Or is this even necessary? I'm more than happy to just kick back and relax and not spend more money too. *L*

 

[bendavbar999]

Always wondered that

 

[bendavbar999]

Bit more protein would be better though

 

[ChickenCanoe]

I'd kick back.
If you can get some fish or meat meal, it wouldn't hurt to up the protein for the first few weeks.

I mix 60% fishmeal with 16% grower 10:1 (grower:fish) to get 20% protein for starting chicks.

 

[Ibicella]

I'd kick back.
If you can get some fish or meat meal, it wouldn't hurt to up the protein for the first few weeks.

I mix 60% fishmeal with 16% grower 10:1 (grower:fish) to get 20% protein for starting chicks.

"Kick back?"

Ok, I'll try to hunt down some fish or meat meal. Thank you!