Influence of graded levels of glucosamine sulfate on growth performance, hematological and biochemical health biomarkers, carcass traits, and economic efficiency in broiler chickens

This study investigated the effects of graded dietary levels of glucosamine sulfate (GS) on growth performance, hematological and biochemical parameters, carcass features, mineral profile, and economic efficiency in broiler chickens reared under Egyptian conditions. A total of 300 one-day-old, unsexed Cobb 500 chicks (average weight 41.8 ± 0.2 g) were randomly distributed into four groups: a control group receiving a basal diet without GS (GS0), and three treatment groups supplemented with 0.1 % (GS1), 0.2 % (GS2), or 0.3 % (GS3) GS. Each group had five replicates of 15 birds and was monitored for 42 days. Final body weight and total weight gain increased linearly (P < 0.001) with GS level, while feed intake decreased (P = 0.002) and feed conversion ratio improved (P < 0.001). Carcass yields, including breast, thigh, fillet, and internal organs, improved significantly (P < 0.05), while abdominal fat was unaffected (P = 0.093). GS supplementation also enhanced hematological indices, notably white blood cell count, lymphocyte and heterophil percentages, phagocytic activity, and phagocytic index. Serum biochemical analysis showed reduced levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), uric acid, and creatinine, and increased gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) activity (P < 0.01), indicating improved liver and kidney function. Additionally, GS increased serum globulin, ionized calcium, and phosphorus levels while reducing albumin, cholesterol, triglycerides, sodium, and chloride. No significant changes (P > 0.01) were observed in total protein, total calcium, potassium, or alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. Economically, although feed costs increased, the highest net profit and economic efficiency were achieved in the GS3 group. These findings support the use of 0.3 % GS as a beneficial additive to enhance performance, health, and profitability in broiler production.