Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) Guide & Formula

What is FCR?

Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) is the most critical biological KPI in broiler farming. It measures the efficiency of your flock in converting feed into body mass. For an Indian broiler farmer, FCR represents roughly 70% of the total production cost.

The Formula

FCR = Total Feed Consumed (kg) / Total Live Weight Gained (kg)

For example, if your flock consumed 3,200 kg of feed and produced 2,000 kg of live weight, your FCR is 1.60.

Benchmark Performance Bands (at Day 35)

Why does FCR increase?

1. Feed Wastage: Poorly adjusted feeders or rodents.
2. Health Issues: Sub-clinical infections like Coccidiosis.
3. Temperature: High heat or extreme cold forces birds to use energy for body regulation rather than growth.
4. Water Quality: Poor water sanitation reduces nutrient absorption.

A lower FCR directly translates to higher profitability. Even a 0.05 point improvement can save ₹5,00,000 in a large operation.