EFFECT OF AQUEOUS TURMERIC EXTRACTS ON THE PERFORMANCE AND ECONOMICS OF PRODUCTION OF FINISHER BROILERS

Abstract

The effect of aqueous turmeric extracts on growth performance and economics of production of finisher broilers was investigated using 150 CHI strain broilers in a 28- day feeding trial. Five levels of aqueous turmeric extracts measuring either 0ml, 20ml, 40ml, 60ml or 80ml per litre of water and designated as T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5, respectively were used in the trial. The birds were randomly assigned to the five groups at 30 chicks each in a completely randomized design. Each group was replicated 3 times with feed and water offered ad libitum. Results showed that turmeric extracts had significant (p<0.05) effect on final body weight, body weight gain, daily weight gain and feed conversion ratio of the birds. Birds fed turmeric extracts recorded significantly (p<0.05) higher body weight gain and superior feed conversion ratio than the control. There was no significant (p>0.05) difference in feed intake and water intake of birds fed the treated and untreated water. Data on economics of production showed that aqueous turmeric extract numerically reduced the cost of feed/kg weight gain, increased the revenue generated and the net return from the birds fed treated water. It could be concluded that feeding of turmeric extract at up to 80ml/litre is beneficial to broiler chicken production since it resulted in improved weight gain, feed conversion ratio and showed evidence of improving economics of production.