Chicks from the same batch do not hatch simultaneously; instead, hatching occurs over a span of 24 to 36 hours. This hatching window creates a significant disparity in the initial conditions between the first and last chicks to hatch. During this period, chicks experience a fasting state and continue without food due to additional fasting caused by handling in the hatchery and transportation to the farm. Although chicks can use the reserves in their yolk sacs, research has shown that a lack of water and feed during the first 72 hours of life adversely affects chick vitality and survival once they reach the farm. Their ability to locate and consume water and feed will ultimately determine their future performance. The longer the average fasting period of a batch of chicks, the higher the early mortality rate and the lower their productive performance.

To address this issue, this good practice involves providing chicks with a nutritional complex while they are still at the hatchery. This complex contains vitamins, minerals, highly digestible amino acids and prebiotics. It is supplied in gel form, sprayed directly onto the chicks.