Effects of supplementation with a novel organic chromium product on metabolic and physiological indicators of broilers

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of supplementation with a novel organic chromium product on metabolic and physiological indicators of broilers. Using a completely randomized design, 45 male Ross 308 broilers (1-day old) were divided into 3 treatments (15 repetitions each), in which every animal constituted an experimental unit. One group was fed on basal diet and served as control (T1), while other two groups were supplemented Cr at the rate of 200 ppb/kg diet (T2) and 400 ppb/kg diet (T3) respectively. Metabolic indicators such as glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides and cortisol concentrations in blood serum were analyzed. Relative weights of liver and pancreas, as well as lymphoid organs (thymus, bursa of Fabricius and spleen), were also analyzed and compared. In addition, the abdominal fat percentage in broilers was considered. Concentrations of metabolic analytes viz., glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides were decreased (p<0.05) in all Cr treated groups (T2 and T3) as compared to control. Whereas, there was an increase (p<0.05) in the relative weight of all studied organs (viz., liver, spleen, thymus, bursa and spleen), and a decrease (p<0.05) in abdominal fat in Cr supplemented broilers as compared to broilers of control group. Results confirmed that supplementation of this organic Cr product had a positive effect on the health of broilers.