Abstract

Background: The rising demand for antibiotic-free broiler meat emphasizes the need for sustainable and healthy poultry production systems. This study investigates the impact of different feed forms on the growth performance, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and microbiological quality of antibiotic-free broilers. Methods: A total of 150 one-day-old Lohman broiler chicks were randomly allocated into three feeding groups: hand-mixed mash (T1), pellets (T2), and crumble (T3), with five replications of 10 chicks each. The birds were raised for 35 days without the use of antibiotics, and various parameters such as feed intake, water intake, body weight gain, FCR, dressing percentage, survivability, and microbiological content were measured. Results: Significant differences (p<0.05) were observed in feed and water intake among the treatment groups. The pellet-fed group (T2) exhibited the highest body weight gain and superior FCR (1.34), compared to crumble (T3) and hand-mixed mash (T1), where FCR was inferior (2.09). No significant differences were found in dressing percentages or survivability between groups. Microbiological analysis revealed the presence of Staphylococcus spp. in T1 and T2, and both Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. in T3. The cost-benefit ratio was significantly higher in pellet (T2) and crumble (T3) groups compared to hand-mixed mash (T1). Conclusion: Pellet feed proved to be the most efficient and cost-effective choice for antibiotic-free broiler production, offering better growth performance and a favorable FCR. This feeding method holds promise for sustainable and profitable poultry production in Bangladesh, contributing to a safe and healthy meat supply.

Keywords: Antibiotic-free, broiler, feed forms, growth factors, production, sustainable.