Effects of alfalfa leaf mass as a part of organic feeding strategies on growth and slaughtering performance of dual-purpose roosters: a preliminary study

Abstract

Abstract The aim of the study was to examine feed efficiency and production performance from crossbreeds roosters of two dual-purpose breeds (New Hampshire rooster × Bresse Gauloise hen) fed with a diet containing alfalfa leaf mass (ALM) as a regionally produced and key protein component. 1000 roosters were divided into four treatment groups and supplied in staggered proportions (A = 0 – B = 10 – C = 15 – D = 20%) with hot-air-dried ALM from week 10 to 16 on an approximately isocaloric basis. In addition to productivity traits, intramuscular fat content (IMF) was analysed as a relevant trait of meat quality. The roosters were kept in mobile free-range housing system which suited organic guidelines and fed with feed components of 100% organic origin.