Feed storage conditions influenced the growth response, blood profile, intestinal morphology and microflora of broiler chicks

This study investigated the effect of feeding proprietary finished feeds exposed to various storage conditions on the growth and health status of broiler chicks. Five broiler starter diets (A, B, C, D, and E) were stored in either light (L) or dark (D) rooms for 4 weeks. Feeds stored in light and dark room were designated as (AL, BL, CL, DL, and EL), and (AD, BD, CD, DD, and ED), respectively. Feeds were analyzed before and after storage. About 600 1-d-old Marshall broiler chicks were randomly assigned to 1 of 10 dietary treatments with 6 replicate pens of 10 birds per replicate in a completely randomized design. Birds were brooded and reared on a deep litter intensive unit. Experimental diets and clean water were provided ad libitum for 21 days. Interaction of feed brands and storage conditions had significant effect on all parameters investigated. Birds fed ED had highest (P<0.001) daily weight gain. Poorest (P<0.001) FCR was observed in birds fed CL. Broiler chicks fed CL had greater (P<0.01) PCV, RBC, total protein, globulin, creatinine and AST values. Jejunum villus height and villus height/crypt depth ratio were highest in birds fed EL. Higher (P<0.01) Salmonella isolates was obtained in birds fed CL while Lactobacillus counts of broilers fed EL and BD were found to be highest. Evidently, finished feeds and feed × storage interaction could alter the performance, health status and microbial profile of broiler chickens.