Identity

Intermediate feeding phase formulated for ongoing rapid muscle growth in meat-type broilers. Under the 2024 standard, this phase corresponds to Broiler Grower Feed.

Overview

Broiler Starter is a high-priority feeding phase for meat-type birds that continues to support rapid muscle growth and balanced development. Spanning days 8 to 21 under the legacy 2007 standard, the 2024 standard extends this phase from days 11 to 21. This phase marks the peak rate of skeletal muscle accretion, particularly the development of the breast muscle (Pectoralis major). The diet provides a balanced protein-to-energy ratio to prevent the catabolism of amino acids for energy.

Structured Facts

Classification

Feeding Phase > Broiler; Broiler Feeds > Structural Growth Rations.

Biological Functions

Supports skeletal elongation, rapid myofibrillar hypertrophy, and sustained rapid muscle growth. Rapid structural skeleton development supports future tissue accretion and prevents metabolic issues.

Nutritional Requirements

High energy density with balanced protein. Requires a minimum crude protein content of 21.0% and a metabolizable energy concentration of 2500 kcal/kg.

Deficiency

• Clinical Signs: Sudden death syndrome or ascites due to structural skeleton underdevelopment.

Toxicity

Feed Phase Requirements

• Pre-Starter: Not applicable
• Starter: Days 8 to 21 (legacy standard).
• Grower: Days 11 to 21 (2024 standard, renamed Broiler Grower Feed).
• Finisher: Not applicable
• Breeder: Not applicable
• Layer: Not applicable

Quantitative Data

• Requirement: Metabolizable Energy, Crude Protein, Calcium, Phosphorus, Lysine, Methionine, Threonine.
• Minimum Level: Metabolizable Energy: 2500 kcal/kg; Crude Protein: 21.0%; Calcium: 1.0%; Total Phosphorus: 0.65%; Available Phosphorus: 0.40%; Lysine: 0.70%; Methionine: 0.35%; Methionine + Cystine: 0.59%; Threonine: 0.58%.
• Maximum Level: Moisture: 11.0%; Crude Fibre: 4.0%; Acid Insoluble Ash: 4.0%; Salt: 0.5%.
• Unit: Percentage (%) by mass (dry matter basis), kcal/kg.

Relationships

• Related Nutrients: Lysine, Methionine, Threonine, Calcium, Phosphorus.
• Diseases: Ascites, Sudden Death Syndrome.
• Breeds: Meat-Type Broilers.
• Production Stages: Days 11 to 21.