Effect of neem (Azadirachta indica) seed cake on feed efficiency and blood biochemical constituents of broilers

Inclusion levels of neem seed cake (NSC) was studied in 96, day-old broilers randomly divided into 4 groups. Group C was kept as control and groups A,B & D were given rations containing 5, 10 & 15% NSC replacing groundnut cake on isonitrogenous and isocaloric basis respectively. The protein turnover was observed to be elevated as reflected by increase in dye binding for avian serum albumin in groups B and D. The nitrogen catabolism was elevated since uric acid values in neem treated birds were higher than in the control birds. The acid phosphatase activity in serum of broilers decreased with neem supplementation. The alkaline phosphatase activity remained unaffected, reducing blood sugar levels decreased in NSC treated broilers of groups B and D. Group A was comparable with the control group. Cholesterol levels showed non significant differences in the four dietary regimens studied. There was non significant decline in the feed efficiency of broilers in neem treated groups, in comparison with control group.