Effect of dietary supplementation of sodium bicarbonate on the performance of broilers

The present study was conducted on performance of broilers supplemented with sodium bicarbonate at different levels through feed. The results revealed significantly (P<0.01) higher weekly body weights of broiler at 6^th week. However, feed consumption was non significant. FCR were significantly affected with supplementation of sodium bicarbonate during summer season. Serum sodium level at 6^th week were non significant. However, the serum potassium levels were not affected at 6^th week of age. Serum chloride at 6^th week was not significantly affected with supplementation of sodium bicarbonate. There was significantly decreased in mortality among treatment group supplemented with sodium bicarbonate except for 0.05 per cent supplemented group. The economics of broiler production revealed increase in the net profit due to better growth, excellent FCR. Hence, it may be concluded that sodium bicarbonate supplementation at the rate of 0.05 per cent followed by 0.1 per cent in broiler ration is beneficial during heat stress.