Effects of different feed additives on broiler chicken growth performance

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The poultry industry plays a crucial role in meeting the growing demand for high-quality protein sources worldwide. Broiler chickens are the most common type of poultry raised for meat production, and optimizing their growth performance is essential for the economic sustainability of poultry farming operations. Feed additives are commonly used in poultry diets to enhance growth, improve feed efficiency, and overall health. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different feed additives on broiler chicken growth performance. The research was conducted over a period of 12 weeks using a total of 300 broiler chickens, which were randomly assigned to five treatment groups. Each treatment group received a different feed additive, including probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes, organic acids, and herbal extracts. Growth performance parameters such as body weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, and mortality rate were monitored throughout the study period. The results of the study revealed significant differences in growth performance among the treatment groups. Broiler chickens fed with probiotics showed the highest body weight gain and the lowest feed conversion ratio compared to the other groups. Prebiotics also had a positive impact on growth performance, while enzymes and organic acids showed moderate effects. Herbal extracts, however, did not significantly improve growth performance compared to the control group. In addition to growth performance parameters, the study also assessed the economic viability of using different feed additives in broiler diets. Cost-benefit analysis indicated that probiotics and prebiotics were cost-effective options for improving growth performance in broiler chickens, while herbal extracts were found to be less economically viable. Overall, the findings of this study provide valuable insights into the effects of different feed additives on broiler chicken growth performance. The results suggest that probiotics and prebiotics can be effective strategies for enhancing growth and feed efficiency in broiler production systems. These findings have important implications for the poultry industry, as they can help poultry producers optimize their feeding strategies to improve profitability and sustainability.