Effect of black garlic and ginger powder supplementation on growth performance, feed efficiency, cecal microbiome, gut morphology, and economic returns in broiler chicks

Abstract

Black Garlic (BG) and Ginger (Gin), rich in bioactive compounds with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and digestion-enhancing properties, are promising natural feed additives. This study assessed BG and Gin supplementation effects on growth, gut health, and economics in Hubbard broilers. Five treatment groups received varying combinations of BG and Gin: T1 (0.25 g/kg garlic + 0.75 g/kg ginger), T2 (0.75 g/kg garlic + 0.25 g/kg ginger), T3 (garlic 0.5 g/kg + Gin 0.5 g/kg), T4 (1.00 g/kg garlic + 1.00 g/kg ginger) and control. BG and Gin supplementation significantly (P < 0.05) improved body weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio in T4 compared to the control during starter and finisher phases. Histological analysis indicated improved (P < 0.05) gut morphology in the supplemented groups, with increased (P < 0.05) villus height and favourable villus height-to-crypt depth ratios compared to the control. Economic analysis showed higher ROFC in the T4 group compared to the control. The results highlight the dose-dependent benefits of BG and Gin supplementation in promoting growth and gut health while providing economic advantages, likely due to improved nutrient utilization and gut function. These findings support combination of 1.00% garlic powder and 1.00% ginger powder as promising feed additives for broiler production.