Effect of pellet diameter in broiler starter diets on subsequent performance

Differently sized dies were used to pellet broiler starter diets formulated to meet typical commercial standards. From 0 to 13 d of age, birds in floor pens were assigned different feed forms, such as mash, crumble, or pellets made by using 1.59- and 3.17-mm dies, followed by common grower and finisher diets pelleted with a 4.76-mm die fed to 41 d. During the first 13 d, birds fed the crumble diet and the 1.59- and 3.17-min die diets had greater BW and more efficient feed conversion than did birds fed the mash feed; however, when all birds were placed on a common pelleted feed from 13 to 41 d, these positive effects dissipated as the birds grew older. Significant differences in feed intake were observable only at 13 d. Birds fed the diet pelleted with a 1.59- or 3.17-mm die had higher feed consumption than did birds fed the mash feed, but the feed intake was similar when birds were fed either the crumble or mash diet. Significant linear regressions were observed between BW or feed intake at 13 d and at 34 or 41 d. According to these correlations, the numerical differences in BW or feed intake at 7 d were maintained up to 34 or 41 d. It was likely that a 3.17-mm die diet was suitable for the starter diet because these birds became accustomed to a larger pellet size, thereby increasing the feed intake in subsequent periods. These data indicate that the small pellet diameters could be beneficial during the starter period and on subsequent performance.