For poultry farmers, feed plays a pivotal role in flock health, productivity, and profitability. While some farmers invest in on-farm feed mills to formulate their own feed, many opt to purchase commercial feed. This decision, driven by a variety of factors, hinges on the complexities of feed production, time constraints, and the benefits that commercial feeds offer.
This article delves into the advantages of buying commercial feeds, drawing on expert insights, research, and case studies to explore why many farmers prefer this option over on-farm feed production.
1. Convenience and Time Efficiency
Producing feed on-farm is a labor-intensive process that involves sourcing, grinding, mixing, and storing ingredients. Farmers must also monitor ingredient quality, manage equipment maintenance, and deal with potential downtime. In contrast, buying commercial feeds simplifies operations, allowing farmers to focus on other critical tasks such as flock health management and biosecurity.
As Dr. Mark Malpass, director of nutrition and innovation at Masterfeeds in Ontario, explains, “Quality control and ingredient sourcing can vary year to year, and managing an on-farm mill demands a significant time investment.” For many farmers, the convenience of ready-made feed is invaluable.
2. Consistent Quality and Safety
Commercial feed manufacturers adhere to strict quality control measures to ensure that their products meet high standards. This includes:
Ingredient Testing: Raw materials are tested for nutrient content and contaminants.
Precision Formulation: Nutritionists balance the feed to meet the specific dietary needs of poultry at different life stages.
Feed Assure Certification: In Canada, approximately 70% of commercial feed production is certified under the Feed Assure program, recognized as the gold standard for feed safety by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Dr. Lisa Hodgins, manager of poultry nutrition at New Life Mills, emphasizes that “commercial mills follow stringent protocols to ensure consistent, high-quality feed that supports stable ingredient supply and excellent feed safety.”
3. Improved Flock Performance
Commercial feeds are scientifically formulated to enhance flock productivity. They provide a balanced mix of proteins, energy, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, resulting in:
- Faster growth rates in broilers
- Increased egg production in layers
- Improved feed conversion efficiency, reducing overall costs
Studies show that pelleted and crumbled feeds, common in commercial production, offer superior nutrient intake and digestibility. For instance, young broilers benefit significantly from crumbled pellets, which improve starch gelatinization and support better weight gain.
4. Flexibility in Feed Options
Commercial mills offer various feed forms, including mash, crumbles, and pellets, catering to the specific needs of different poultry types and stages. For example:
Crumbled pellets are ideal for chicks and young broilers, whose digestive systems are still developing.
Pelleted feeds reduce dust and feed wastage, enhancing feed efficiency.
Layer diets often include large-particle limestone for better calcium absorption and stronger eggshells.
Such flexibility is challenging to achieve with on-farm feed production.
5. Reduced Risk and Responsibility
With on-farm feed production, the farmer assumes full responsibility for ingredient sourcing, quality control, and equipment maintenance. Any issues—such as contaminated ingredients or equipment malfunctions—can directly impact flock health and productivity.
By purchasing commercial feed, farmers offload these risks to professional feed manufacturers. This reduces stress and ensures that the flock receives consistently high-quality nutrition.
6. Cost-Effectiveness in the Long Run
While on-farm feed production might appear cost-effective initially, the long-term costs of maintaining a feed mill, sourcing quality ingredients, and managing downtime can outweigh the savings. Moreover, the economies of scale in commercial feed production often result in competitive pricing without compromising quality.
Dr. Hodgins notes that “commercial mills leverage bulk ingredient purchasing and advanced manufacturing processes to provide cost-effective solutions that maintain nutritional integrity.”
Case Study: Pronk Family Farm
The Pronk family in Ontario installed an on-farm feed mill to produce high-quality feed for their flock. While they initially aimed for a 10-year return on investment, they anticipated achieving this in 7–8 years by selling their premium feed to neighboring farms.
However, not all farmers have the resources or inclination to take this route. As Dr. Malpass observes, “The feasibility of on-farm feed production depends on farm size, infrastructure, and long-term goals. For many farmers, the predictability and convenience of commercial feed are more appealing.”
7. Expert Support and Research-Based Formulations
Commercial feed companies invest in research and employ expert nutritionists to design feeds that optimize poultry health and performance. Farmers also benefit from after-sales services, such as technical support and advice on feeding strategies.
Dr. Hodgins explains, “Commercial feeds are developed based on extensive research to address specific challenges, such as improving gut health, enhancing immunity, and maximizing feed conversion efficiency.”
8. Adaptability to Future Regulations
As the agriculture industry evolves, regulations on feed safety and ingredient traceability are becoming stricter. Commercial mills are better equipped to comply with these requirements, ensuring that farmers receive certified and traceable products.
Dr. Malpass highlights that “future regulations will likely increase the costs and complexities of on-farm feed production, making commercial feeds a more practical choice for many farmers.”
Conclusion
Buying commercial feed offers numerous benefits, including consistent quality, convenience, improved flock performance, and cost-effectiveness. While on-farm feed production may suit some farmers, the challenges of ingredient sourcing, quality control, and equipment maintenance often outweigh the perceived advantages.
For most poultry farmers, investing in commercial feeds ensures reliable nutrition, supports flock health, and simplifies operations, paving the way for sustainable and profitable farming.
If you’re considering whether to buy commercial feeds or produce your own, assess your farm’s unique needs, resources, and long-term goals. In many cases, the professional expertise and convenience of commercial feeds make them the smarter choice.
