Find the latest chicken feed prices in Zambia for 2026. Compare broiler starter, grower, finisher, layer, and pullet feed prices from leading manufacturers.
Feed is the single largest cost in poultry production, often accounting for 60% to 70% of the total cost of raising chickens. Whether you’re keeping broilers, layers, or village chickens, staying informed about current feed prices can help you budget more effectively and improve your farm’s profitability. (competition.org.za)
In this guide, we provide an overview of chicken feed prices in Zambia for 2026, explain the different types of poultry feed, and share practical tips on reducing feed costs without compromising flock performance.
Note: Feed prices vary by location, supplier, transport costs, and market conditions. The prices below are indicative ranges and should be confirmed with your nearest stockist before purchasing.
Average Chicken Feed Prices in Zambia (2026)
| Feed Type | Typical 50kg Price (ZMW) |
|---|---|
| Broiler Starter | K630 – K740 |
| Broiler Grower | K600 – K720 |
| Broiler Finisher | K580 – K700 |
| Layer Mash | K540 – K690 |
| Pullet Starter | K560 – K700 |
| Pullet Grower | K530 – K670 |
| Pre-Lay / Developer | K500 – K640 |
These ranges are based on prices published by major feed manufacturers and distributors, together with prevailing market prices in Zambia. (nmc.co.zm)
Broiler Feed Prices
Broilers require different feed formulations at each stage of growth.
Broiler Starter Feed
Starter feed is fed from day-old chicks until approximately two weeks of age. It contains high protein levels to support rapid growth and strong early development.
Typical Price:
- K630 – K740 per 50kg bag
Broiler Grower Feed
Grower feed is introduced after the starter phase and promotes muscle development while maintaining healthy weight gain.
Typical Price:
- K600 – K720 per 50kg bag
Broiler Finisher Feed
Finisher feed is used during the final weeks before marketing. It is formulated to maximize weight gain efficiently.
Typical Price:
- K580 – K700 per 50kg bag
Layer Feed Prices
Layer feed is specifically formulated for hens that have started laying eggs.
It contains balanced protein, energy, vitamins, and calcium to support egg production and shell quality.
Typical Price:
- K540 – K690 per 50kg bag
Pullet Feed Prices
Pullets require specially formulated feed before they begin laying.
Common products include:
- Pullet Starter
- Pullet Grower
- Pre-Lay (Developer)
Typical Prices
| Feed | Price |
|---|---|
| Pullet Starter | K560 – K700 |
| Pullet Grower | K530 – K670 |
| Pre-Lay Feed | K500 – K640 |
Popular Chicken Feed Brands in Zambia
Several companies manufacture poultry feed in Zambia.
Some of the most widely available brands include:
- Novatek Animal Feeds
- Tiger Animal Feeds
- Nutri Feeds
- Namfeeds
- Supra Feeds
Each manufacturer offers products for broilers, layers, pullets, and other livestock.
Factors Affecting Chicken Feed Prices
Chicken feed prices change throughout the year due to several factors.
Maize Prices
Maize is the primary ingredient in poultry feed. Higher maize prices generally lead to higher feed prices.
Soybean Prices
Soybeans provide the protein required for poultry growth. Increases in soybean prices often affect poultry feed costs.
Exchange Rate
Some feed ingredients and additives are imported. Exchange rate fluctuations can influence production costs.
Fuel and Transport Costs
Transportation expenses affect the final retail price, especially in areas located far from manufacturing plants.
Seasonal Demand
Feed demand usually increases during periods when many farmers are stocking broilers for festive seasons, which may influence prices.
How Much Feed Does a Broiler Eat?
Feed consumption varies depending on breed and management.
As a general guide:
| Growth Stage | Feed Consumption per Bird |
|---|---|
| Starter | 0.5–0.8 kg |
| Grower | 1.0–1.5 kg |
| Finisher | 1.5–2.0 kg |
A commercial broiler typically consumes around 3.5–4.5 kg of feed from day-old to market weight, depending on genetics, feed quality, and management.
Tips for Reducing Feed Costs
Feed represents the largest expense on most poultry farms, but there are ways to manage costs effectively.
- Buy feed in bulk where practical.
- Store feed in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage.
- Avoid feed wastage by using suitable feeders.
- Purchase from reputable suppliers.
- Follow the recommended feeding programme.
- Keep birds healthy to improve feed conversion efficiency.
- Compare prices from different stockists before buying.
Where to Buy Chicken Feed in Zambia
Chicken feed is available from:
- Feed manufacturers
- Agricultural supply stores
- Veterinary shops
- Poultry equipment suppliers
- Authorized distributors
- Selected supermarkets and agro-dealers
Most major manufacturers also have regional distributors throughout Zambia. (Novatek Animal Feeds)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does broiler starter feed cost in Zambia?
Prices generally range between K630 and K740 per 50kg bag, depending on the brand, supplier, and location. (nmc.co.zm)
Which chicken feed brand is best?
There is no single “best” brand for every farmer. Established manufacturers such as Novatek, Tiger Animal Feeds, Namfeeds, Nutri Feeds, and Supra Feeds all offer products designed for different production systems. The right choice depends on your flock, management practices, availability, and budget.
Why do feed prices change?
Feed prices are influenced by the cost of raw materials such as maize and soybeans, fuel prices, transport costs, exchange rates, and seasonal market demand.
How can I save money on chicken feed?
Good feed storage, reducing wastage, buying from reliable suppliers, and comparing prices from different stockists can help lower production costs.
Final Thoughts
Feed costs play a major role in determining the profitability of poultry farming. Monitoring current prices and understanding the factors that influence them can help farmers plan their budgets more effectively and make informed purchasing decisions.
Before buying feed, compare prices from several suppliers, confirm availability, and select a feed that meets the nutritional requirements of your birds. While lower prices may be attractive, consistent quality and good feed conversion are often more important for long-term profitability.
Want to learn more about raising chickens successfully? Read our comprehensive Poultry Farming in Zambia guide, where you’ll find practical advice on choosing the right breeds, housing, feeding, disease prevention, business planning, and improving the profitability of your poultry farm.