Response of Broiler Chickens Fed Pellets to Period of Restriction

Abstract

One hundred and fifty day-old Marshal® broiler chicks were allotted into five treatments and subjected to restriction at 30% and pelletized feeding at seven days period each at the starter phase and subsequently fed ad libitum. The experiment lasted for 56 days. Data were collected on growth performance, cost benefit, abdominal fat and meat quality. Data were subjected to a one-way analysis of variance in a completely randomized design. The results show significantly highest (p<0.05) total feed intake in birds fed pellets and restricted in week 1 (4087.93g/b) compared to birds restricted in week 4 (3982.53g/b). Feed conversion ratio was not significantly (p>0.05) different. Birds restricted in week 4 showed a better feed cost savings compared toad libitum feeding and other restricted groups. Ether extract content of the breast muscle and abdominal fat was lowest (p<0.05) in birds restricted in week 4. The study concluded that feeding pellets to broiler chickens improved weight gain and feed conversion. Feed restriction at 30% level in week 4 reduced feeding cost, abdominal fat and improved meat quality and feed conversion ratio.