Journal of Krishi Vigyan

This study evaluated the effects of feeding biosynthesized zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs) on growth performance, nutrient utilization, and tissue mineral concentrations in Vanaraja chickens. Birds were divided into six groups: a zinc-negative control, a positive control receiving 60 ppm inorganic zinc, and four groups supplemented with 15 ppm, 30 ppm, 45 ppm, and 60 ppm ZnNPs. Over an 8-week period, parameters such as feed consumption, growth rates, feed conversion ratio (FCR), nutrient utilization, zinc bioavailability, and tissue zinc concentrations were recorded. Feed intake during the starter phase remained stable, averaging 461.96 to 472.58 g, while significant decreases were observed in the finisher phase (2320.65 to 2447.93 g), indicating enhanced feed efficiency associated with ZnNPs. Growth rates improved significantly during the finisher phase (953.11 to 1036.06 g) and overall (1162.21 to 1246.67 g), highlighting the potential of ZnNPs to optimize nutrient absorption. FCR values ranged from 2.24 to 2.51, with ZnNP groups achieving efficiencies comparable to the positive control, suggesting that ZnNPs can replace conventional zinc sources. Although nutrient utilization effects were statistically insignificant, higher ZnNP doses increased zinc retention in bone (up to 347.28 ppm) and liver tissues. These findings indicate that ZnNP supplementation can enhance growth efficiency and zinc bioavailability in poultry.