Epol offers a specialised Free Range Broiler Feed range, expertly formulated for South African broiler and free-range broiler farmers who require consistent growth, natural performance, and high-quality nutrition for birds raised in open, free-ranging environments.
The Free Range programme delivers balanced nutrition and reliable results across every stage of broiler production.

Free Range Broiler Feed Products

• Free Range Broiler Pre-Starter
  Specialised pre-starter feed formulated to boost early chick vitality, support organ development, and strengthen immune response.
• Free Range Broiler Starter
  High-quality crumble starter feed designed to support strong early frame growth and healthy development.
• Free Range Broiler Grower
  Pelletised grower feed that promotes balanced muscle development, efficient nutrient absorption, and steady growth in free-ranging birds.
• Free Range Broiler Finisher
  Finisher feed formulated to support optimal final body weight, natural development, and good carcass yield.
• Free Range Broiler Post Finisher
  Post-finisher feed ideal for birds approaching market weight, enhancing carcass uniformity and ensuring a clean withdrawal period.

Best Practices for Free Range Broiler Farming Using Epol Feed

1. Prepare the Broiler House

o Clean, disinfect, and pre-heat the broiler house thoroughly before chick arrival.
o Place water and free-range broiler feed at least 24 hours before placement so they reach room temperature.
o Ensure all equipment is functional and suited to free-range production systems.

2. Feeding Strategy

o Begin with Free Range Broiler Pre-Starter to support early vitality, organ development, and immunity.
o Transition to Free Range Broiler Starter (crumble) for strong early frame growth.
o Introduce Free Range Broiler Grower pellets to support balanced muscle development and steady growth.
o Use Free Range Broiler Finisher to achieve optimal final body weight and carcass yield.
o Complete the cycle with Free Range Broiler Post Finisher to maintain uniformity and ensure a clean withdrawal period.

3. Environmental Management

o Ensure heaters and brooders are working correctly and positioned at the appropriate height.
o Avoid placing feeders or drinkers directly beneath heat sources, as this can reduce feed and water intake.
o Conduct the first chick check 4–6 hours after placement to confirm chicks are eating, drinking, and active.
o Adjust environmental conditions if chick behaviour indicates discomfort.

4. Feeder & Drinker Setup

o Provide adequate access to feeders and drinkers:
– 1 bell drinker per ±100 birds
– 1 nipple drinker per 12 birds
– 1 pan feeder per 45 birds
– 40 cm tube feeder for up to 70 birds

5. Temperature Control

• Record daily minimum and maximum temperature in the broiler house.
• At placement aim for a floor temperature floor temperature of ~30 °C.
• Carefully regulate house temperature during the first 14 days for optimal growth and feed conversion. Monitor chick activity and adjust temperature accordingly.

6. Feed Availability & Nutrition

o Ensure birds have continuous access to feed — free-range broilers should never run out of feed.
o Download the Free Range Broiler brochure for detailed intake guidelines for each feeding stage.
o Select the appropriate feed phase to match bird age and production goals.
o For personalised advice and on-farm support, get in touch with our team — trusted by broiler and free-range farmers across South Africa.