EFFECT OF NON-SYNTHETIC FEED ADDITIVES ON THE PERFORMANCE AND SERUM BIOCHEMICAL INDICES OF BROILER CHICKEN

This study showed the effects of non-synthetic feed additives, sodium butyrate, oregano, and bambermycin, on the growth performance and serum biochemical indices of broiler chickens. A total of 120 Cobb 500-day-old chicks were randomly assigned to five treatments: control (T1), sodium butyrate (T2), oregano (T3), bambermycin (T4), and a combination of all three additives (T5), each with 24 birds, using a Completely Randomized Design. Birds were fed experimental diets for six weeks, and data were collected on growth performance parameters (weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio) and serum biochemical profiles (glucose, proteins, enzymes, lipids, and renal markers). Results showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in weight gain across treatments, though oregano-fed birds (T3) recorded an improved feed conversion ratio (1.44) compared to the control (1.46) and other groups. Serum biochemical indices remained largely within physiological ranges, with oregano supplementation reducing serum cholesterol and maintaining lower creatinine levels relative to other treatments. Bambermycin-fed birds recorded higher feed intake but less efficient nutrient conversion. The combination of additives did not produce synergistic benefits. It is concluded that while all additives were safe, oregano demonstrated the most promising effects on feed efficiency, glucose metabolism, and lipid profile. The findings highlight oregano as a viable natural alternative to synthetic growth promoters for sustainable broiler production.