Chemical Composition of Broccoli Leaf Meal and Its Effects on Performance, Carcass, Haematology, and Serum Metabolites in Broiler Chickens
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the chemical composition of broccoli leaf meal and its effects on performance, carcass, haematology, and serum metabolites in broiler chickens. After drying under a shed, broccoli leaves were ground to produce broccoli leaf meal (BLM), which was then analyzed for proximate composition and mineral content. Two basal diets for broilers were formulated and supplemented with varying levels of BLM: 0% (control), 2.5% (A1), 5% (A2), 2.5% (B1), and 5% (B2). In diets A1 and A2, BLM was added without altering other ingredients, while in B1 and B2, adjustments were made to maintain crude protein and energy levels similar to the control. A total of 150 ROSS 308 broiler chicks were used, divided into five groups (30 chicks per group with three replicates each). After arrival, they received anti-stress treatment for three days and were brooded for two weeks, with feed and water available ad libitum for 42 days. The study focused on parameters such as growth rate, feed intake, carcass and organ weights, and blood profile assessment. Results indicated that carbohydrates, potassium, calcium, and iron levels were notably high in the leaves. Body weight was not significantly affected (p>0.05); however, the diet with A2 demonstrated the highest feed intake and mortality rate, along with significantly lower red blood cells, packed cell volume, and hemoglobin (p<0.05), but groups B1 and B2 displayed improved feed conversion ratios. It was concluded that BLM can be included in broiler diets up to 5% if other ingredients are modified to meet protein and energy needs.
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