Feed Consumption Rates in Kuwait's Poultry Sector

Egg production in Kuwait amounts to approximately one billion eggs annually. Feed consumption per egg ranges from 135 to 175 grams, with an average of approximately 150 grams per egg. Based on this average, and assuming a feed-to-egg conversion rate of approximately 2.1, the actual feed requirement could reach about 150,000 tons. Added to this is the feed required during the broiler chicken rearing phase (brooding), which lasts about 18 weeks and consumes approximately 17,000 tons of feed. In the broiler sector, the feed-to-meat conversion rate is the most important factor in determining production costs. Based on practical experience, it is observed that the feed conversion ratio (FCR) in Kuwait is relatively high compared to global standards, with the exception of some major companies. This is due to several factors, most notably the manual mixing of feed and the failure to pelletize it, which achieves better conversion efficiency compared to ground feed. Additionally, there are daily feed losses of up to 10% due to exposure to rodents and birds. Globally, the average feed conversion ratio is approximately 1.6 kilograms of feed to produce one kilogram of meat, but in Kuwait, the average feed conversion ratio is 2 kilograms of feed to produce 1 kilogram of meat. According to available statistics, Kuwait produces approximately 40 million chickens annually, requiring nearly 80,000 tons of feed per year. Thus, the total annual feed requirement for the poultry sector alone—excluding parent stock—in Kuwait amounts to approximately 247,000 tons. The feed mix typically consists of: 60% yellow corn, 30% soybeans, and 10% mineral salts, vitamins, and nutritional supplements. From this perspective, Kuwait needs strategic storage silos sufficient for a period of no less than four months, amounting to approximately 75,000 tons of grains and feed. One of the key recommendations previously outlined in an earlier article is the establishment of one or more feed mills with a production capacity of at least 100 tons per hour, preferably located in the new ports to facilitate the import of raw materials. The feed should be delivered directly to production silos in various regions of Kuwait, and the plant must be managed by specialized scientific personnel who oversee analysis, quality control, and production monitoring, while applying the latest technologies and modern systems in the feed industry. The production system should also be supported by selecting the best breeds, implementing biosecurity measures, and overseeing the proper use of medications and vaccines. To ensure production continuity, it is important to establish farms for parent and grandparent stock to produce laying chicks and hatching eggs, while exploring participation or investment in such projects in certain Arab countries with temperate climates, where feed is readily available, thereby enhancing food security and ensuring sustainable production. O Allah, protect Kuwait and its people from all harm.