The effect of a clinoptilolite-based feed supplement on the performance of broiler chickens

Abstract

The main objective of this research was to verify the effect of feed mixtures supplemented with clinoptilolite-containing ZeoFeed (at a level of 1% and 2%) on the performance traits of broiler chickens in the period of their growth. Experimental results confirmed a positive effect of clinoptilolite on the performance of chickens which was demonstrated by a highly significant increase in the average live weight (P ≤ 0.01) of broiler chickens at 40 days of age. The average live weight of broiler chickens was 2.24 kg (at a dose of 1%) and 2.28 kg (at a dose of 2%) with feed conversion of 1.84 kg (at a dose of 1%) and 1.95 kg (at a dose of 2%) while the average live weight of control broiler chickens was 2.12 kg with feed conversion of 1.83 kg. No differences between both groups were found in water consumption. Chickens in all monitored groups showed very good health and a very low rate of mortality (3.75% in control group, 1.25% at a dose of 1% and 3.75% at a dose of 2%). It follows from the experiments that the clinoptilolite-containing product may serve as a suitable feed supplement to feed mixtures for broiler chickens.