Complementing Plant and Animal Protein Sources for Broiler Production: Effects on Growth, Carcass Traits, and Economics

This study investigated the effects of complementing plant-based Sesbania grandiflora meal (SGM) and animal-based fermented golden apple snail extract (FGASE) protein sources on the growth performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, and economic profitability of broiler chickens. A 2x4 factorial experiment was conducted, with SGM levels (0 and 15g kg-1) and FGASE levels in drinking water (0, 10, 20, and 30 mL L-1). SGM diet increased feed and water intake but did not affect final body weight or weight gain. FGASE in water did not influence feed or water intake. The combination of SGM and FGASE improved feed conversion ratio, but higher FGASE levels reduced dressing percentage. Neither SGM nor FGASE significantly impacted most meat cut weights or visceral organ weights, except for a significant interaction on back weight. Economic analysis revealed positive returns on investment for all treatments, with the highest net profit obtained from broilers fed a standard diet supplemented with 10 mL L-1 FGASE. The findings suggest the potential for incorporating SGM and FGASE in broiler diets to improve feed efficiency and profitability, though optimal inclusion levels and processing methods require further investigation.