The Effect of IntelliBond Copper and Zinc on Growth Performance, Carcass Yield, and Health of Broiler Chickens

This study evaluated the efficacy of IntelliBond copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) as potential replacements for antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs), focusing on their impact on growth performance, carcass yield, and gut health of broiler chickens.A total of 1,088 Cobb broiler chicks were assigned to two treatment groups: T1: inorganic (sulfate) minerals (INO), T2: IntelliBond (hydroxy chloride) minerals (IB).Over 35 days, various parameters were assessed, including performance parameters, gut morphology, carcass yield, litter quality, and mineral deposition in the liver.The results showed that IntelliBond supplementation (T2) significantly reduced (P<0.05)mortality rates from 4.96% (T1) to 3.31%, and improved litter quality, as reflected by lower moisture content and a reduction in cases of footpad dermatitis.While T2 showed slightly lower cumulative feed intake and body weight compared to T1, it significantly increased (P<0.05) the villus height and surface area by the third week.T2 did not affect carcass yield percentage, despite lower breast meat weight (P<0.05).Liver mineral analysis revealed that IntelliBond Zn deposition was slightly lower than sulfate Zn but maintained adequate levels.Despite challenges such as high ambient temperature and ammonia levels, IntelliBond Cu and Zn maintained growth performance and enhanced nutrient absorption during the finisher phase.Additionally, IntelliBond minerals contributed to a lower incidence of footpad dermatitis, indicating improved welfare outcomes.This study highlights the potential of hydroxychloride minerals as a sustainable alternative to inorganic mineral sources in broiler production.