Effect of supplementation of phytogenic feed additives turmeric, black pepper and their combination on production performance and serum biochemical profile of Japanese quail

One hundred and fifty day old quails were distributed in to five treatments with three replicates containing ten birds each randomly. They are fed with five experimental diets T₁ (Basal diet), T₂ (Basal diet supplemented with 0.75% turmeric), T₃ (Basal diet supplemented with 1% black pepper), T₄ (Basal diet supplemented with 0.25% turmeric and 0.5% black pepper) and T₅ (Basal diet supplemented with 0.5% turmeric and 1% black pepper). The results of present study revealed no significant difference in 5^th week and cumulative body weight gains. The mean feed intake and feed efficiency were not significantly influenced by various levels of turmeric, black pepper and their combinations. The serum albumin was significantly (p<0.01) increased among the treatment groups from T₁ to T5. Serum globulin was significantly (p<0.01) increased in T4 and T5 when compared with T1, T2 and T3. Serum total protein values were significantly (p<0.01) increased in T₃, T₄ and T₅ when compared with control. Mean serum total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides levels showed significant (p<0.01) decrease and serum HDL cholesterol was significantly (p<0.01) increased among the treatment groups fromT₁ to T₅. Feed cost per kg live weight gain significantly (p<0.01) increased from T₁ to T₅. From the present study it can be concluded that supplementation of turmeric and black pepper has reduced cholesterol and increased albumin and globulin levels in serum which has health benefits for the consumer.