Comparative Study of Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Broilers Fed Locally Formulated and Commercial Diets

CHAPTER ONE

1.1 Background to the Study

Poultry farming plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between animal protein demand and supply, particularly in developing nations. Broiler production contributes significantly to food security and income generation (Adejumo et al., 2020). However, the high cost of commercial poultry feed remains a major challenge for farmers. Locally formulated diets using readily available ingredients could serve as a cost-effective alternative to commercial feeds.

The nutritional quality of feed directly influences growth performance, feed efficiency, and carcass yield. Several studies have compared the performance of birds fed commercial and locally formulated diets, revealing mixed results due to variations in feed composition, ingredient quality, and processing methods (Akinmutimi et al., 2019). Therefore, there is a need to assess the growth and carcass performance of broilers raised on local versus commercial diets under controlled conditions.

This study aims to compare growth performance and carcass characteristics of broilers fed locally formulated and commercial diets to determine which provides optimal productivity and economic efficiency.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The reliance on commercial feeds has increased production costs, reducing profitability in small-scale poultry farms. Many farmers attempt to formulate local feeds, but without proper nutritional balance, bird performance may decline. There is insufficient scientific data comparing locally formulated diets to commercial ones in terms of growth rate, feed conversion, and carcass yield. Hence, this study seeks to fill that gap.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The objectives of this study are to:

1. Compare the growth performance of broilers fed locally formulated and commercial diets.

2. Assess the carcass yield and organ characteristics of birds fed both diet types.

3. Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of local feed formulation.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How do locally formulated diets affect broiler growth compared to commercial feeds?

2. What are the differences in carcass yield between broilers fed both diet types?

3. Which feeding strategy offers better economic returns?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study will help farmers understand the viability of local feed formulation as a substitute for expensive commercial feeds. The findings will provide practical insights for small-scale producers aiming to reduce costs without compromising performance (Ogunleke et al., 2021).

1.6 Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study will focus on broilers reared from day-old chicks to market weight under controlled feeding conditions. Limitations may include ingredient variability and restricted laboratory facilities for nutrient analysis.

1.7 Definition of Terms

Carcass Characteristics: The physical traits of the dressed bird, including meat yield and fat content.
Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR): The efficiency with which feed is converted into body weight.
Locally Formulated Feed: A diet prepared from locally sourced ingredients using standard nutritional guidelines.

References
Adejumo, D. O., Ogunleke, A. F., & Fashina, O. B. (2020). Comparative evaluation of broilers fed local and commercial feeds. Nigerian Journal of Animal Production, 47(4), 312–320.
Akinmutimi, A. H., Nworgu, F. C., & Esonu, B. O. (2019). The potential of local feed formulation for sustainable poultry production. Journal of Agricultural Science and Practice, 9(3), 142–149.
Ogunleke, A. F., Ayoade, J. A., & Adeyemi, O. S. (2021). Economic analysis of broiler production using different feed sources. African Journal of Livestock Science, 12(1), 65–72.