Cobb 500 Broiler: Performance Objectives & Management Guide
A scientific guide to Cobb 500 growth curves, feed conversion efficiency, breast meat yield, and husbandry management.
Scientific Overview
The Cobb 500 is one of the world's leading commercial broiler strains, recognized for its fast growth rate, uniform body conformation, exceptional feed efficiency on lower-cost diets, and strong leg health. Developed by Cobb-Vantress, the Cobb 500 is widely farmed in North America, South America, Europe, and Asia for both whole-bird and further-processing meat markets.
Cobb 500 Overview & Genetic Profile
The Cobb 500 is defined as a commercial 4-way cross meat broiler hybrid strain engineered for maximum growth rate, superior breast meat yield, and high livability across diverse environmental conditions.
Key breeding attributes include strong cardiovascular health, excellent leg density (reducing lameness), and lower amino acid density requirements compared to other high-yield strains, making it economical in areas with high soybean meal prices.
Cobb 500 Growth Chart & FCR Benchmarks
Target performance standards for a mixed-sex Cobb 500 flock under optimal management (2022 Cobb Performance Objectives):
| Age (Days) | Target Weight (g) | Daily Gain (g/day) | Cumulative FCR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 195 g | 26 | 0.95 |
| 14 | 540 g | 49 | 1.19 |
| 21 | 1,060 g | 74 | 1.33 |
| 28 | 1,760 g | 100 | 1.44 |
| 35 | 2,560 g | 114 | 1.55 |
| 42 | 3,360 g | 114 | 1.67 |
Track your flock's growth curve against these benchmarks using our Growth Curve Tracker.
Cobb 500 vs. Ross 308: Key Differences
Comparing the world's top two commercial broiler strains:
| Feature | Cobb 500 | Ross 308 |
|---|---|---|
| Diet Sensitivity | Thrives on lower amino acid density diets | Requires high amino acid density for max yield |
| Breast Meat Yield | High (21–23% of live weight) | Very high (22–24% of live weight) |
| Leg Strength | Exceptional bone density | Good; requires controlled lighting |
| FCR Potential | 1.50–1.65 (35-day) | 1.48–1.62 (35-day) |
Brooding & Ventilation Requirements
Cobb 500 chicks require a warm, draft-free brooding environment during the first 7 days:
- Pre-heat concrete floor to 32°C and air to 33°C at least 24 hours prior to chick placement.
- Maintain 60–70% relative humidity. Check crop fill at 24 hours (>95% soft, rounded crops required).
- Step down temperature by 0.5°C daily, reaching 21°C by Day 21. Size ventilation fans using our Ventilation Fan Calculator.
All scientific data, diagnostic criteria, and performance benchmarks presented on this page are derived from published peer-reviewed journals and official veterinary codes:
- Avian Pathology & Diagnostics: World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH, 2023). Manual of Diagnostic Tests and Vaccines for Terrestrial Animals. Paris, France.
- Poultry Diseases & Histology: Swayne, D.E., et al. (2020). Diseases of Poultry (14th ed.). Wiley-Blackwell / American Association of Avian Pathologists.
- Nutrition & Feed Chemistry: Leeson, S. & Summers, J.D. (2001). Commercial Poultry Nutrition (3rd ed.). University Books, Guelph, Ontario.
- Commercial Breed Standards: Aviagen (2024). Ross 308 & Cobb 500 Broiler Performance Objectives. / Lohmann Breeders (2024). Lohmann Brown Management Guide.