Effects of Gongronema latifolium (UTAZI) as a feed additive on the performance, organ weights, serum enzymes and lipid profile of broiler chickens

Abstract

This study examined the effects of dietary Gongronema latifolium leaf meal (Utazi) on the performance and serum biochemicals of broiler chickens. One hundred and fifty (150) unsexed broiler birds were used for the experiment, that lasted for eight (8) weeks. Five (5) dietary treatments; T₁ (control), T₂, T₃, T₄, and T₅ at 0%, 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6% and 0.8% inclusion of Utazi, were used, respectively. Each treatment was replicated thrice (3) with 10 birds per replicate. The study revealed that the dressing percentage (%) was significantly (P<0.05) affected by the treatments. However, the final weights (g), weekly weight gains (g), weekly feed intake (g), organ weights (g) and feed conversion ratio showed no significant (P>0.05) difference across the treatments. The results further showed a significantly higher level of the enzymes Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), Alanine Transaminase (ALT) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) in the control (T₁) and T₂. The study concluded that Gongronema latifolium leaf meal can be included in broiler feed formulation at a rate of 0.8% (800gm/100kg feed) with no adverse effects, but rather helps liver function and improves the immunity of broilers. It is therefore, recommended to include 0.8% of Gongronema latifolium leaf meal in broiler feed formulation.