Effect of Supplementation of Fenugreek Seeds to the Broiler Chicks Diet on the Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics

Abstract

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the effects of supplementation of fenugreek seeds to the diet on the growth performance and carcass quality of broiler chicks. Materials and Methods: A total of 120 one-day-old unsexed broiler chicks (Ross 308) were used in this study. The experiment lasted 5 weeks (8-42 day). Three isocaloric and isonitrogenous experimental diets were prepared. In the first experimental diet 0.50% fenugreek seeds were added. In the second diet 0.75% fenugreek seeds were added. The third diet (control) was free of fenugreek. Each experimental diet was fed to 40 chicks (10 chicks×4 replicates). The experiment was carried out at an open-house system. Results: The diet supplemented with fenugreek seeds had non significant effect (p≥0.05) on feed conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio, feed consumption, live body weight, body weight gain and carcass characteristics of broiler chicks. Conclusion: The inclusion of fenugreek seeds to the broilers diet at the levels of 0.50 and 0.75% had no significant effect on broiler growth performance and carcass yields, therefore, more researches are needed to examine higher inclusion levels of fenugreek seeds.