FEED INTAKE, FEED EFFICIENCY AND GROWTH PERFORMANCE IN BROILERS FED WITH AZADIRACHTA INDICA (NEEM LEAVE) SUPPLEMENTED DIET

ABSTRACT The poultry industry, particularly broiler production, has experienced significant growth due to the increasing demand for affordable animal protein. Feed efficiency is a major factor contributing to the success of poultry production, as it accounts for up to 70% of production costs. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Azadirachta indica (neem) leaf supplementation on feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and growth performance in broiler chickens. This study used a randomized controlled trial design with multiple dietary treatments. Weekly measurements of feed intake and body weight were recorded to assess growth performance. Serum biochemical analysis was conducted at the study's conclusion to evaluate the immune response and protein levels in the broilers. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the results across treatments, ensuring the validity of the findings. A total of 50 day-old unsexed broiler chicks (Arbor Acres strain) were randomly assigned to five dietary treatments with three replicates each. The experimental treatments included a basal diet (control) and diets supplemented with 0%, 5%, 10%, and 20% neem leaf powder. The trial lasted for 6 weeks, during which feed intake, and body weight were measured weekly. At the end of the study, blood samples were collected for serum biochemical analysis, including total protein, albumin, globulin, and antibody titers. The results indicated that neem supplementation significantly improved growth performance, with the 10% neem inclusion resulting in a 15% increase in body weight gain compared to the control group. Higher levels of neem supplementation (15% and 2.0%) caused a decline in feed intake and growth, suggesting a dose-dependent effect. Moreover, neem supplementation at 10% improved the immune response, as evidenced by significantly higher serum antibody titers and total protein levels compared to the control group. This study demonstrates that Azadirachta indica leaf supplementation can be an effective natural alternative for improving broiler growth and feed efficiency, particularly at a 10% inclusion level. Neem supplementation not only improved growth parameters but also enhanced immune responses, presenting significant economic and health benefits for poultry producers. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on phytogenic feed additives as sustainable alternatives to antibiotics, offering farmers an effective method to reduce reliance on synthetic growth promoters. Further research is needed to optimize inclusion rates for different broiler strains and environmental conditions.