Effects of organic minerals supplementation on growth, bioavailability and immunity in layer chicks

Abstract

A comparative study on effect of replacement of inorganic minerals viz., Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu) and Manganese (Mn) with their corresponding organic minerals (methionine) on growth, bioavailability and immunity in layer chicks was undertaken till 8th week post feeding. At 8th week, the body weight of birds were found to be significantly (p<0.05) higher in 100% organic Zn group, 100 and 50% organic Zn, Cu and Mn supplemented groups. The cumulative feed consumption and Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) of all the treated groups showed no significant (p>0.05) difference. The serum glucose, cholesterol and ALP levels showed significant (p<0.05) differences. Significantly (p<0.05) higher titer levels were observed in 100% organic Zn group, 100% and 50% organic Zn, Cu and Mn supplementation groups. The CBH response of all the treated groups showed no significant (p>0.05) difference. At 8 weeks of age, the relative weight of spleen of layer chicks in 100% and 50% organic Zn, Cu and Mn supplementation groups were significantly (p<0.05) higher than all the other treatments. Tibia bone weight (g), tibia calcium (%) and tibia phosphorus (%) varied insignificantly (p>0.05). But significant (p<0.05) difference was observed with respect to the tibia ash content. Except Zn and Mn levels of tibia, all other studied mineral levels of serum and liver did not differ significantly (p>0.05). Faecal excretions of minerals were significantly lower in organic mineral fed groups. Replacement of inorganic Zn, Cu and Mn with corresponding organic minerals improved the body weight, immunity and lower faecal excretion of minerals in chicks. © 2014 Asian Network for Scientific Information.