Zeaxanthin as a Broiler Pigmenter

Abstract

Zeaxanthin in a stabilized gelatin beadlet formulation was evaluated as a broiler pigmenter in 2 trials. In the first experiment, low oxycarotenoid basal broiler starter and grower rations were fed continuously for 7 weeks with zeaxanthin added to both of the rations at concentrations of 11, 22 and 33 mg./kg. Zeaxanthin was compared to three other pigmentation sources: β-apo-8’-carotenoic acid ethyl ester, marigold petal meal and a concentrated extract from marigold petal meal.In the second experiment, zeaxanthin was added at a concentration of 2.75 to 11 mg./kg. to broiler grower rations containing <1.0, 5.5, 11, 16.5, or 22 mg. oxycarotenoids/kg. from feed ingredients and fed from the 29th through the 49th day.The birds from both experiments were processed under simulated commercial conditions. Shank color was visually scored by 3 or 4 persons using the Roche Yolk Color Fan and breast feather tract pigmentation was measured using the Purina Skin Pigmentation Guide.Zeaxanthin was shown to be a very effective broiler pigmenter producing a highly acceptable yellow to yellow-orange color in both the shanks and breast skin.