Flat schedule
The Flat Schedule: a revolutionary yet well-considered approach.
In the nutrition of racing and breeding pigeons, it is important to make a clear distinction between SUPPLEMENTS and FEED. Both have their own role, but together they form a complete diet, each with a fundamentally different function in the pigeon’s overall care.
Supplements: targeted, exact, and consistently dosed – The Big 5 by COMED
A supplement (official term = complementary feed) is not “regular food.” It consists of carefully selected nutrients in concentrated form that are not typically present in grain mixes or natural sources, or only in minimal amounts. Think of:
- Plant extracts
- Vitamin preparations
- Amino acids
- Antioxidants
- Probiotics and prebiotics
- Enzymes and trace elements
These substances are added in a targeted way to prevent deficiencies year-round and keep the pigeons in optimal condition. The quantities are not chosen arbitrarily, but based on our own scientific research—tailored to the needs of the pigeon—and according to strict EU guidelines so there is no risk of overdosing.
At COMED, we prescribe a stable supplement schedule that remains in place throughout the year—regardless of the season. That is a deliberate choice: we ensure that all necessary supplements are administered in a coordinated way. This way, the pigeon always has the right building blocks, whether it is the breeding, racing, molting, or resting period.
The better feed manufacturer (Vanrobaeys, Versele, Beyers,..) provides the appropriate seasonal feed at the right time of year. This “regular” feed—the grain mix—serves as the primary energy source. It contains the necessary carbohydrates, fats, and proteins and is the source of calories for daily performance. Unlike the supplements, this base feed should be adjusted according to the season:
- During the breeding period there is a need for more protein.
- Before races, there is a need for more energy (fats and sugars).
- During the molting period, a higher content of sulfur-containing amino acids (such as methionine) is useful.
- In the resting period, a maintenance diet suffices (the prescribed quantities may even be adjusted downward).
Adjusting the diet is done via the grain mix and minerals—not via the supplements. This keeps the feeding regimen controllable, targeted, and efficient.
Conclusion
We believe that the constant availability (flat schedule) of coordinated supplements—namely The Big 5 by COMED—in combination with adapted feed from a good manufacturer offers the best guarantee for year-round health, performance, and recovery of your pigeons. By not varying supplements unnecessarily, we avoid both deficiencies and overdosing and maintain clear oversight of the entire feeding plan.
Healthy pigeons, all year round—thanks to a well-thought-out combination of The Big 5 supplements by COMED and an adapted feed choice from a good brand!