Consider Feed Efficiency

Track weekly feed consumption against weight gain for each batch of turkeys. When the feed conversion ratio (pounds of feed per pound of gain) rises above 5:1, the bird is past peak efficiency and should be scheduled for processing. Record total feed consumed and body weight weekly to identify this inflection point.

Why It Works

Turkeys follow a predictable growth curve where feed conversion is most efficient during mid-growth. Broad Breasted breeds typically achieve 2.5-3:1 feed conversion at 12-16 weeks, degrading to 4-5:1 by 20 weeks and worsening further beyond that. Heritage breeds follow a similar pattern shifted later. Processing at the efficiency inflection point minimizes feed cost per pound of meat produced.

Tips

• Broad Breasted breeds typically hit diminishing returns around 20 weeks, heritage breeds around 26-28 weeks
• A simple notebook tracking weekly feed usage and sample weights from 2-3 birds is sufficient
• Feed represents 60-70% of the total cost of raising a turkey, making conversion efficiency the single largest factor in profitability