F.G. Edwards - Chick Grower 16%

Broiler grower feed is the second phase in a three-stage feeding program for meat chickens. It bridges the gap between the high-protein starter feed used during the first 28 days and the lower-protein finisher feed used from day 49 to market weight. The F.G. Edwards broiler grower contains 16 % crude protein, which is intentionally lower than the 18 % starter because chickens’ protein needs decrease as they age while their energy requirements increase. Feeding grower feed from day 29 to day 49 supports continued muscle development without producing excess body fat, which can reduce carcass quality. This feed should be offered free-choice (ad libitum) so birds can eat according to their natural appetite.

The protein reduction from 18 % to 16 % reflects the changing metabolic needs of growing broilers. During the first 28 days, chicks need higher protein for rapid tissue development, organ growth, and feather formation. By day 29, the most intensive growth phase is complete and the birds shift toward building muscle mass and accumulating body weight more efficiently. At this stage, excess protein beyond what the bird can use for muscle synthesis is simply excreted as nitrogen waste, which increases ammonia levels in the litter, raises feed costs, and can stress the kidneys. The 16 % level provides sufficient amino acids for continued lean growth while allowing the diet’s energy to be directed toward efficient weight gain rather than processing excess protein.

Feed consumption increases steadily during the grower phase as birds grow rapidly. At day 29, expect each bird to consume approximately 100 to 120 g per day. By day 49, daily intake typically reaches 150 to 180 g per bird. Over the entire 21-day grower phase, a single broiler chicken will consume roughly 2,5 to 3 kg of grower feed in total. For a small flock of 25 birds, plan on approximately 60 to 75 kg of feed for the grower phase. Always provide feed free-choice in clean feeders and ensure fresh water is available at all times. Monitor feed consumption daily—a sudden drop in intake can indicate health issues, temperature stress, or stale feed that needs replacing.

A gradual transition over 3 to 5 days helps avoid digestive upset and temporary drops in feed intake. On the first day, mix approximately 75 % starter with 25 % grower feed. On day two, switch to a 50/50 blend. By day three or four, increase to 75 % grower and 25 % starter. By day five, offer 100 % grower feed. This gradual shift allows the birds’ digestive systems to adapt to the lower protein level and any changes in feed texture. Watch for signs of reduced eating during the transition—this is normal and typically resolves within 24 to 48 hours. The same gradual approach should be used again at day 49 when transitioning from the F.G. Edwards grower to the finisher feed at 14 % protein.

Leg problems in broilers are often linked to rapid growth outpacing skeletal development, and proper nutrition during the grower phase plays a critical role in prevention. The F.G. Edwards grower feed maintains calcium at 0,51 % specifically to support ongoing bone mineralization during this rapid weight gain period. Vitamin D3 is added to ensure efficient calcium absorption. However, nutrition alone cannot prevent all leg issues. Ensure adequate space for movement (minimum 0,05 m² per bird at this age), provide proper litter depth (8 to 10 cm of dry shavings), and maintain appropriate lighting schedules that include dark periods to encourage rest. If you notice birds sitting frequently or walking with difficulty, consult a veterinarian—reducing the photoperiod to slow growth rate is sometimes recommended for backyard flocks.

Feed waste and ammonia are interconnected problems during the grower phase because wasted feed decomposes in the litter and excess dietary protein is excreted as uric acid, which bacteria convert to ammonia. To minimize waste, adjust feeder height so the lip is level with the birds’ backs—too low and they scatter feed, too high and smaller birds cannot reach. Fill feeders only two-thirds full; overfilling is the number one cause of feed spillage. The 16 % protein level in the F.G. Edwards grower already helps reduce ammonia compared to feeding starter feed too long, since lower protein means less nitrogen excretion. Maintain good ventilation in the coop and keep litter dry (below 30 % moisture). In Quebec’s humid spring and summer, consider adding a thin layer of fresh shavings every few days rather than a complete litter change.

F.G. Edwards offers two approaches to raising meat chickens:

• F.G. Edwards 3-phase program—a conventional system using three feeds formulated specifically for each growth stage: début 18 % (0–28 days), croissance 16 % (29–49 days), and finition 14 % (49+ days). This phased approach optimizes protein levels at each stage for efficient growth and the best feed conversion ratio
• Bio Rard organic—a certified Ecocert Canada feed made from locally sourced organic grains, available as a combined grower-finisher formula that simplifies the feeding program to two phases instead of three. Ideal for producers seeking organic certification for their birds

The conventional 3-phase program typically delivers faster growth rates and lower feed costs per kilogram of meat produced. The organic option costs more per bag but commands a premium at market. Both are available at F.G. Edwards in West Brome and Bedford.

F.G. Edwards produces the complete three-phase broiler feed program, available at both West Brome and Bedford locations. The program includes the starter at 18 % protein, this grower at 16 %, and the finisher at 14 %. All three feeds are formulated locally to match the nutritional needs of standard broiler breeds raised in Quebec’s climate. We also stock the essential poultry equipment to support your meat bird operation, including feeders, waterers, heat lamps, bedding, and health products. During our annual Journées Poules event, we sell day-old broiler chicks with a mandatory starter bag included, making it easy to begin your flock with the right nutrition from day one. Our team can help you plan feed quantities based on your flock size.