The effects of multienzyme preparation on production results of fattening chicks fed rye-based diets

Abstract

The effects of multienzyme preparation Polizym® (amylase, protease, ß-glucanase, ß-glucosidase, cellulase) on production results of chick fed diets with different levels of rye (up to 60%) was investigated (280 Ross chicks, fattening period of 42 days). Chicks were divided into seven groups and held in cage-system with feed and water ad libitum. Over the first three weeks, all groups were fed starter for fattening chicks and afterwards a finisher. The control group was fed commercial maize-based mixtures. In diet for experimental groups maize was partially substituted by rye (6%, 30% and 60%). Experimental mixtures were used with or without addition of Polizym®. The influence of rye and added preparation on body weight gain, feed conversion rate, amount of abdominal fat and litter moisture were examined. The results indicated that 30% and 60% of rye in diets decreased body weight gain (P<0.01), while 6% of rye in diet increased body weight gain (P<0.01) when compared to the control group. Regardless of Polizym® addition, higher proportions of rye (30% and 60%) increased the feed conversion rate and the amount of abdominal fat. Chicks fed 6 % rye diet had lower feed conversion rate when compared to the control group and lower amount of abdominal fat, especially when fed with Polizym®. Higher rye proportions increased faeces moisture. Polizym® had positive effects in decreasing faeces moisture only in diets with 6% of rye. Rye in diets did not cause any health problem during the investigation.