Chicks from the same hatch batch do not hatch simultaneously; rather, hatching occurs over a period of 24 to 36 hours. During this period, chicks remain fasting and continue without food due to additional fasting caused by handling in the hatchery and transportation to the farm. Although they can use their reserves in the yolk sac, research has shown that the lack of water and feed during the first 72 hours of life adversely affects their vitality and, therefore, their survival once they reach the farm. Their ability to locate and consume water and feed will significantly influence their subsequent 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, it is recommended to provide chicks with a nutritional complex containing vitamins, minerals, highly digestible amino acids, and prebiotics while they are still in the hatchery. This complex is delivered in gel form, sprayed over the chicks, and consumed through their natural feather-pecking behaviour.

The administration of this nutritional complex promotes the development and uniformity of the chick batch, ensuring they arrive at the farm in optimal condition. The gel format enhances consumption as it aligns with the chicks’ natural behaviour. It is sprayed over the chicks using a specialized machine in the hatchery room, immediately after standard handling operations. The droplet size is carefully calibrated to ensure it adheres to the feathers, allowing for easy ingestion pecking without wetting the chicks or causing them to feel cold.