Vietnam 18M1 chicken breed: Resilient, delicious meat, superior profitability

A real-life model in Hai Phong

In Nguyen Trai Ward, Hai Phong City, experienced farmer Tran Nhat Tam has adopted a semi-free-range, bio-secure farming method.

During the day, chickens roam freely on the hills, while at night they are brought back to the coop, producing firmer and leaner meat.

Tran Nhat Tam highly appreciates both the meat quality and the economic value of the 18M1 chicken breed. Photo: Nong nghiep Moi truong.

“This year’s weather has been quite erratic, alternating between hot and cold, yet the flock has been growing well, with almost no mortality. At 71 days old, males now weigh 1.5-1.6 kg and females about 1.1 kg each,” Mr Tam shared.

Thanks to its premium quality, 18M1 chicken often sells for about USD 0.20-0.30 per kg, higher than common breeds. For instance, while Ho chickens fetch around USD 2.5 per kg, 18M1 chickens can reach USD 2.8 per kg, bringing attractive profits to farmers.

Clean farming, tender and tasty meat

According to Pham Thuy Linh of the National Agricultural Extension Center, the 18M1 chicken project applies biological bedding techniques, keeping barns clean while reducing odors and pathogens.

More importantly, the chickens are fed with corn and rice bran instead of industrial feed, resulting in meat that is firm, chewy, aromatic, and low in fat. This is the key factor that helps the 18M1 win over the market.

Potential for sustainable growth

Despite challenges related to consumer habits, the superior quality of the 18M1 is expected to quickly gain buyer trust.

The model led by Mr Tam demonstrates that when good breeds are combined with safe farming techniques and effective market linkages, farmers can not only increase income but also contribute to building a sustainable livestock sector in Vietnam.