Alternate methionine supplementation option in broilers: a field study

Objective of the experimental trial was to study efficacy of herbal methionine supplement Methiorep for improving growth, performance & carcass traits in broilers. Trial was conducted on 200 day-old unsexed broiler chicks (Vencobb), randomly allotted to two treatment groups, T0 & T1 comprising 100 chicks each. Group T0 supplemented with commercial feed only (no over and above Methionine- DLM supplementation was done) and in group T1 commercial feed supplemented with Methiorep (M/S Ayurvet Limited, India) @1.5 kg/tonne of feed. Statistical analysis of results showed that in group T1 a significant (P<0.05) increase in mean final body weight (g) and LWG (g) was observed in comparison to unsupplemented control group T0. FCR, dressing %, bursa weight (g) and Spleen weight (g) parameters were significantly (P<0.05) improved in Methiorep supplemented T1 group in comparison to unsupplemented T0 group suggesting efficacy of Methiorep in improving poultry health and carcass traits. Colour of fresh meat was significantly better and desirable in Methiorep supplemented group as compared to control group. Cooked meat colour, flavour, juiciness, texture and overall acceptability of T1 group was observed to be significantly better. Non-significantly (P<0.05) different but numerically lower mortality occurred in Methiorep supplemented T1 group as compared to untreated control T0 group. The trial investigation revealed that over and above supplementation of Methiorep (M/S Ayurvet Limited, India) @1.5kg/tonne of feed alongwith commercial ration in broilers helped in improving growth, performance, feed efficiency, carcass traits. The product was found to be safe for usage.