Starter

Day 0 - 14

Main target in this stage

Ready for growth

Growth starts here! During the starter stage, it's crucial to encourage young broilers to eat and drink. Proper nutrition and care at this stage are key for healthy development and profitability. De Heus helps you optimize these early stages, ensuring a strong, healthy flock that drives growth and maximizes productivity.

Antibiotic-free production pressure

Removing antibiotic growth promoters increases gut stress and early mortality. Feed functional starter diets and strengthen biosecurity and early feeding management

View antibiotic-free starter solutions

High density & poor air quality

High stocking density raises ammonia levels and respiratory stress. Maintain minimum ventilation and keep litter dry to protect chick health

Request a ventilation assessment

Water quality & biofilm risks

Contaminated water reduces intake and spreads bacteria. Flush lines, sanitize water systems, and test water regularly.

Download our water sanitation protocol

Frequently Asked Questions

Other key topics in the starter stage

Warm, humid climates increase disease pressure in young chicks. Support immunity through nutrition, dry litter, and proper vaccination handling.

Learn more about immune support nutrition

Raising broilers without antibiotics requires tightening biosecurity, improving litter quality, ensuring clean water, and supporting gut health through high-quality nutrition. Focus on strong hygiene protocols, proper brooding temperatures, and minimizing stress.

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Use a highly digestible starter feed with functional fibers, organic acids, and immune-supporting additives. Maintain precise amino acid balance and provide consistent feeder access.

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Provide immediate feed access, clean water with stable chlorination, and maintain correct brooding temperatures. Include mycotoxin control and avoid abrupt dietary changes.

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Ammonia buildup is a frequent challenge in high-density poultry houses, impacting both bird health and overall farm productivity. Effective management strategies are required to minimise ammonia levels and maintain a healthy environment for the flock.

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Water needs to contain no coliform bacteria, have a pH between 6 and 6.8, iron levels below 0.3 ppm, and nitrates under 10 ppm. Regular sanitation and flushing should be maintained at all times.

Early chick mortality can be minimized by focusing on several key management practices throughout brooding and the initial days of chick placement.

Chick Quality Verification: Inspect chicks on arrival for health and defects to ensure strong flock performance.
Maintain Proper Brooding Temperatures: Monitor brooding temperatures to meet chicks' needs for comfort and survival.
Immediate Feed and Water Access: Give chicks feed and clean water within hours to reduce stress and support growth.
Follow Vaccination Protocols: Stick to vaccination schedules to protect against disease and maintain flock health.

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To effectively manage wet litter in poultry houses, it is essential to maintain an appropriate balance between ventilation and heating, carefully adjust drinker settings, and ensure that insulation is adequate throughout the facility.

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