Poultry Bedding – Straw Pellets vs Crumble: Parameters and Cost-Effectiveness

Properly selected bedding reduces moisture, ammonia and footpad lesions, while lowering labour demand. The most common natural solutions are straw pellets and crumble. See how they differ and how to generally assess their cost-effectiveness.

Key parameters

• Absorption: pellets activate quickly and absorb moisture, crumble stabilises the surface and creates a uniform layer.
• Dust: depends on dedusting quality and the method of application.
• Microclimate: pellets lock moisture below the surface, crumble helps prevent local wet spots.
• Ergonomics: pellets suit mechanical spreading, crumble is convenient for manual top-ups.

Economics of bedding

Cost-effectiveness depends on several factors: the purchase price of the material, the amount required per square metre and the time needed for spreading and topping up. Each farm has different needs – it is best to compare the total material and labour costs across the entire production cycle.

When to choose pellets, when crumble?

• Humid periods or high stocking density: pellets absorb moisture more quickly.
• Dry and stable conditions: crumble works well as a consistent bedding mat.
• Automatic spreading and Big Bags: pellets are logistically easier.

Bro-Eko recommendations

We offer pellet sizes 6 and 8 mm, packaged in 15 kg bags and 1000 kg Big Bags. We advise the best choice depending on stocking density, ventilation and cleaning regime. Our bedding is delivered with our own fleet across Poland and Europe.

FAQ

• Can pellets and crumble be combined? Yes – this often gives the best results.
• Which pellet size is recommended? 6 mm is usually used at the start, 8 mm for maintenance.
• Big Bag or small bags? Big Bags suit automated spreading, 15 kg bags are flexible for manual handling.