Providing the right nutrition is paramount for poultry farmers in the Philippines who are embracing the free-range method. It’s not merely about scattering grains; it’s about strategically selecting free-range feeds that contribute to your flock’s health, well-being, and productivity, all while aligning with sustainable farming practices. Crucially, the success of free-range farming hinges not just on what chickens eat, but also on the ample space they have to roam, forage, and express natural behaviors. Choosing the best free-range feeds ensures your chickens thrive in their natural environment, leading to tastier eggs and meat, and ultimately, a more profitable and ethical operation.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the best natural feeds available in the Philippines and how these choices, alongside the essential element of space, contribute to the overall success of raising free-range chicken breeds in the Philippines.
Understanding Free Range Feeding
Free-range chickens need a different nutritional approach than their counterparts raised in cages. The defining characteristic of free-range is the significant space provided for chickens to roam outdoors, exploring and foraging. With more space to roam, they burn more energy and are exposed to diverse environmental elements. This active lifestyle requires a well-balanced feed that supports mobility, immune strength, and consistent production. While they will naturally pick up insects, grubs, and greens from the ground, this forage supplements, rather than replaces, a carefully formulated diet. By understanding and meeting these needs, we can ensure the well-being of these chickens and contribute to sustainable farming practices.
Natural feeds are designed to meet these needs while staying true to sustainable and ethical farming principles. These free-range feeds avoid using synthetic additives and antibiotics. Instead, they rely on ingredients like whole grains, legumes, plant proteins, and mineral supplements sourced from natural origins. Not only do these promote better poultry health, but they also give consumers a cleaner, safer product to put on their tables.
Nutritional Impact on Poultry Health and Quality
A chicken raised on natural feed and allowed to roam freely is a different bird. The feed composition directly influences everything from meat texture to egg yolk color and shell strength. Higher quality feed equals higher quality poultry.
Protein sources like soybean meal and fish meal, often used in small farms, help increase muscle growth and improve egg-laying consistency. Grains such as corn and wheat support energy levels, while calcium-rich ingredients like crushed oyster shells ensure strong bones and eggshells.
More importantly, natural feed reduces the risk of toxic buildup in the birds. With no synthetic antibiotics or growth stimulants, chickens develop at a natural pace. This slower growth, complemented by the exercise and environmental enrichment from ample space, allows their muscle fibers to mature properly, resulting in more flavorful meat with better texture. Eggs from naturally-fed, free-range hens also show higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and beta carotene.
Why Choose Natural Feeds for Your Free-Range Chickens?
Opting for natural feed for your free-range flock provides numerous benefits. Firstly, it promotes healthier and more robust birds. By avoiding synthetic additives and antibiotics, you reduce the risk of health issues and ensure a stronger immune system. This often translates to lower mortality rates and reduced reliance on medications.
Secondly, the quality of the end products, both meat and eggs, is often superior. Chickens raised on natural feeds tend to produce eggs with richer yolks and firmer whites, and their meat can have a more natural and desirable flavor. This enhanced quality can also lead to better market prices for your produce.
Furthermore, supporting natural feed production contributes to more sustainable farming practices. It encourages environmentally friendly agriculture, reduces the reliance on chemical inputs, and promotes biodiversity. By choosing these free-range feeds, you are not only investing in the health of your chickens but also in a healthier planet.
Finally, using high-quality free-range feeds can positively impact the overall productivity of your flock. Well-nourished chickens are more likely to reach their full growth potential and maintain consistent egg production. This can lead to a more efficient and profitable poultry operation in the long run.
Challenges in Finding and Using Natural Feed
Despite the clear benefits, shifting to natural, free-range feed in the Philippines isn’t without its challenges. Availability can vary greatly depending on location. Not all areas have access to certified natural suppliers, and some ingredients may be costlier than conventional feed.
There’s also the added task of formulation. Unlike commercial free-range feeds, which come pre-balanced, free-range feeds sometimes require on-farm adjustments depending on the breed, age, duration of growth, and the purpose of the poultry. Farmers need to understand the nutritional needs of their flock and stay consistent with their feeding schedule and quantity.
The good news is that knowledge is catching up. Training programs, community forums, and cooperatives are actively supporting poultry farmers. More local feed mills are now offering customizable blends for free-range poultry, and demand is creating better economies of scale.
Nourishing Your Free-Range Success
Providing the best free-range feeds for your chickens in the Philippines is an investment in their health, your productivity, and the sustainability of your farming practices. But remember, the very definition and success of free-range are deeply tied to providing adequate, enriching space for the birds to thrive.
Embracing these feeding strategies and ensuring proper roaming areas not only leads to healthier and happier chickens but also contributes to a more ethical and environmentally conscious approach to poultry farming. Remember that the journey to successful free-range poultry farming is paved with informed decisions, and choosing the right feed and providing the right environment are cornerstones of that success.
Speaking of informed decisions, the quality and consistency of your chosen feed are paramount. Inoza Feeds understands this critical aspect, utilizing advanced European technology and state-of-the-art facilities to ensure that each batch meets rigorous quality standards.
Its central laboratory leverages Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) to assess and balance nutrients precisely. NIRS quickly analyzes ingredients for protein, moisture, and fat levels, while AAS measures essential minerals, ensuring nutrient consistency across all products.
“These technologies enable Inoza Feeds to produce reliable, nutrient-rich feeds tailored to support better animal health and performance,” said Zoilo Valdez, Associate AVP of Strategic Business Operations of Inoza Feeds’ Agri Group.
Let’s Work Together
Bounty is dedicated to helping Filipino farmers embrace sustainable and ethical farming methods. Based on our extensive experience in the poultry industry, we’ve learned that free-range farming is a truly sustainable approach, offering tangible advantages for your business and the community.
We provide resources, training, and support to assist farmers in transitioning to free-range farming methods. Together, we can create a future where ethical farming becomes the norm and everyone benefits from better-quality products.
Visit our website at bounty.com.ph to explore how we can help you get started. Let us work together to raise healthier chickens, create better food, and benefit our communities.
