Effect of turmeric (Curcuma longa) supplementation on growth performance, immune response, carcass characteristics and cholesterol profile in broilers

Abstract

The present study investigated the effects of turmeric on growth performance, immune response, serum cholesterol and carcass characteristics in broilers. A total of 120 day-old straight-run Hubbard broiler chicks were divided into four treatment groups in completely randomized design. Turmeric powder was supplemented through feed at the rates of 0, 0.5, 1 and 1.5% throughout the rearing period (day 1 to 35). Body weight gain, feed consumption and feed conversion efficiency were measured on a weekly basis. Blood samples (3 birds/replicate) were collected at the 30th and 35th day of age for determination of antibody titers against infectious bursal disease (IBD) and Newcastle disease (ND), respectively. At the end of the experiment, 3 birds per replicate were slaughtered to obtain carcass characteristics data. Results showed that turmeric supplementation positively affected growth performance. Supplementation at 1 and 1.5 % improved body weight gain, and 0.5% and 1.5% reduced feed intake. All levels improved feed conversion efficiency but supplementation at the rate of 1.5% showed the best results. Turmeric supplementation improved antibody titers against ND and IBD. Serum total cholesterol was reduced and HDL-cholesterol was increased, while LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides remained unaffected due to turmeric supplementation. It can be concluded that turmeric has the potential to improve growth performance, immune response, dressing percentage and cholesterol profile in broilers, and its use at 1.5% through feed is recommended for better results.