Abstract
Simple SummaryThis study shows how introducing milk thistle seeds into broiler chicken feed rations affects rearing results (weight gain, intake and conversion of feed), carcass composition and meat quality (pH, color, water holding capacity), the chemical composition (basic components, fatty acids) and organoleptic properties (flavor, tenderness, palatability and juiciness) of meat. Based on the results the use of milk thistle seeds in broiler chicken starter/grower diets can be recommended in the amount of 0/2% or 2/3%, respectively. However, the introduction of Silybum marianum in starter and grower rations (over the whole rearing period) made it possible to obtain the highest body weight at the lowest feed conversion per body weight gain unit, without influencing muscularity and fattening grade, at the same time improving the meat’s value for health.The studies aimed to evaluate the impact of milk thistle seeds in broiler chicken feed rations on rearing results, carcass composition and meat quality. The experiment involved 120 broiler chickens randomly allocated to three equinumerous groups (C, MT02, MT23). Each group was divided into five subgroups of eight chickens each. Over the first 21 days of life the birds were fed starter rations, and over the following 21 days received grower rations. Chicken starter/grower diets in groups MT02 and MT23 were supplemented with ground seeds of milk thistle in the amount of 0/2% (MT02) and 2/3% (MT23). It was demonstrated that Silybum marianum added to feed rations over the whole rearing period (group MT23) increased above 3% the birds’ body weight on rearing day 42. (p < 0.05) and decreased about 7% the feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05) in comparison to group C. No effect of feeding on the carcass composition was observed, including on muscularity and fattening grade, although diets containing milk thistle reduced (by 15% and 19% in group MT02 and MT23, respectively) the content of crude fat in chicken leg muscles (p < 0.05). The highest (p < 0.05) content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) was determined in the breast (38.06%) and leg (37.63%) muscles of chicken receiving feed rations containing Silybum marianum throughout the rearing period. No effect of nutrition on the evaluated physical properties of muscles was observed, except on the decrease in lightness color (L*) and increase in values a* and C as well as a decrease of water holding capacity of the breast muscles. It was found that Silybum marianum in chicken diets had a positive effect on the evaluated meat flavor characteristics of the muscles. To sum up, based on the study results, including ground seeds of milk thistle in broiler chickens nutrition can be recommended in the amount of 2/3% in starter/grower diets, respectively.
Highlights
The European Union’s prohibition of using antibiotics in feeds as growth stimulants made breeders and feed producers look for new nutritional solutions
The inclusion of milk thistle seeds in starter/grower diets in the amount 2/3% (MT23 group) significantly increased the body weight of broilers on the 42nd day of rearing in comparison to group C (Table 3)
Aziz et al [24] milk thistle seeds are a source of protein and energy, which is corroborated by the level of crude fat determining the energy value of the raw material
Summary
The European Union’s prohibition of using antibiotics in feeds as growth stimulants made breeders and feed producers look for new nutritional solutions. Herbs and herbal preparations contain active biological ingredients, i.e.,: essential oils, tannins, glycosides, flavonoids, terpenes, mucilages, and organic acids [5,8,9,10]. Biological active components of herbal preparations display multi-directional activity: anti-stress, antibacterial, anti-virus, and anti-fungicidal [11,12]. They enhance the excretion of digestive enzymes increasing the appetite of animals [8,13,14].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
