Carcass characteristics of finishing broiler chickens fed varying levels of crude fibre and energy in multi-fibre source-based diets

Abstract

The carcass characteristics of unsexed Obamarshal broiler chickens fed three levels (4, 8 and 12%) of Crude Fibre (CF) and three levels of Metabolisable Energy (ME) at 2600, 2800 and 3000 ME (Kcal/kg) in multi-fibre source-based diets were assessed using a 3x3 factorial design. The nine experimental diets, each for the starter and finisher phases maintained the calorie: protein ratios of 123:1 and 140:1 respectively. Two hundred and sixteen (216) dayold unsexed broiler chicks were allotted at the outset to nine dietary treatments at 24 per diet with 8 birds per replicate. There were 3 replicates per treatment arranged in a completely randomised design. Diets were formulated in accordance with the standard nutritional specifications for the broiler chickens. Feed and water were provided to the birds ad libitum for 8 weeks. Results showed that carcass yield was similar (P>0.05) and maximised (P<0.05) on 8 and 12% CF diets at 2800 and 3000ME (Kcal/kg) with the eviscerated weights of 1.40 and 1.42 kg respectively while carcass fat as per abdominal and gizzard was minimised on 12% CF diet at 2800ME (Kcal/kg) diet. Relative weights of both intestinal organs and length of intestine were increased (P<0.05) in broiler finishers with increasing CF levels while increasing ME levels increased abdominal fat. It can therefore, be concluded that 12% CF diet at 2800 and 3000 ME (Kcal/kg) maximised carcass yield but carcass fat was minimised at 2800 ME (Kcal/kg) diet of broiler chickens in favor of its recommendation for adoption, especially in the tropics.

Keywords: Broiler chicken; crude fibre; metabolisable energy; calorie: protein ratio; carcass