Effect of first feed intake time on broiler performance and carcass traits

Abstract

Influence of first feed intake time on broiler performance parameters and carcass traits have been evaluated using 225 newly hatched male chicks (Ross), randomly divided into three treatment groups and post-hatch initial feeding times as Oh, 18h and 36h. During the first four weeks, body weight gain of delayed fed groups were lower than control group. However, by the end of the 42 d experimental period body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, survival rate and carcass trait parameters were not different (P>0.05) among the groups. Performance deficiencies caused by delayed feeding disappeared in subsequent days suggesting that this process had no detrimental effect on broiler performance.