Effect of dietary palm kernel meal on laying hens

Abstract

Indonesia has the potential for palm kernel meal, which has the largest production in the world. Palm kernel meal has been commonly used as an ingredient in ruminant and poultry feeds. However, the various studies conducted have produced very varied results. This article aimed to analyze various research data on the use of palm kernel meal in the chicken feed. The data used were 38 data points from 10 journal articles. The use of palm kernel meal ranged from 0% to 70% in rations. The statistical model used is linear regression. The database was analyzed using SPSS software version 25. Results showed that the use of palm kernel meal in laying hens reduced (P<0.01) egg production. Palm kernel meal also increased FCR (P<0.05) and tended to decrease Haugh Unit (P<0.1). Other parameters such as consumption, egg weight, mortality, egg shell thickness, and yolk color were not influenced by dietary inclusion of palm kernel meal. In conclusion, palm kernel meal cannot be given to poultry directly, it is necessary to process the ingredient to enhance its nutritive value.