Dietary inclusion of hemp seeds (Cannabis sativa var. Carmagnola) affected live weight, quality, and oxidative status of breast, thigh and liver of Naked-neck Kabir chickens

Abstract

The poultry industry stands as a cornerstone in securing global food stability, both in the present and foreseeable future. To continue to uphold this critical role, the exploration of innovative, low-input feed sources is imperative. Hemp emerges as a promising candidate, offering locally sourced ingredients that not only reduce feed costs but also maintain high nutritional standards for livestock. This study delved into the utilisation of whole hemp seeds in the diet of 100 Naked-neck Kabir chicks that were divided randomly into two dietary groups, one fed a control diet (CTRL) and one fed a diet deprived of soybean meal with 10% inclusion of Carmagnola hemp seeds (HEMP). Birds were slaughtered at 81 days of age. Physicochemical characteristics of breast, thigh, and liver, besides the antioxidant content and the lipid oxidative status, were investigated. The HEMP birds exhibited higher daily weight gain and final live weight compared to the CTRL group. Results revealed improvements in the fatty acid profiles and antioxidant content in the HEMP group, leading to good levels of key nutrients such as α-tocopherol, retinol, and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. These findings underscore the potential of hemp seeds as a feed ingredient, standing poised as a sustainable ally in fortifying the poultry productive chain.