The Protein Requirement of Growing Chicks

Abstract

A ration for growing chicks must carry a certain amount of protein in order to secure normal growth. This protein may be either animal or vegetable. Animal protein is preferable and there are a greater number of these to choose from, while the desirable and available vegetable protein concentrates are very limited. Soybean meal may be mentioned as one which may substitute, or at least partially substitute animal protein in the ration for growing chicks.

When more than the minimum amount of protein required for normal growth is used in a ration the results secured from the excess does not warrant its use from the standpoint of economical feeding. There is, however, a wide range in the amount of protein which may be used in the ration with about equal results. A considerable excess may not prove harmful but it is better to substitute this excess with the less expensive …