The use of dried distiller's grains with solubles (DDGS) combined with the use of additives in the diet of broiler quails

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effect of using DDGS as an alternative to traditional feed ingredients in the diet of broiler quails, in association with the of two additives, to assess performance, carcass yield and parts, body chemical composition, relative organ weight, and the production cost of the feeds. A total of 360 unsexed broiler quails (Coturnix coturnix coturnix) were used, distributed into four treatments: Control: reference diet based on corn and soybean meal; DDGS: diet with 15% inclusion of DDGS; DDGS + xil: diet with 15% inclusion of DDGS and 0.01% xylanase enzyme (on top); DDGS + caa: diet with 15% inclusion of DDGS and 0.1% of a metabolizability enhancer based on clay and algae, with five replications and eighteen birds per experimental unit. From 1 to 14 days of age, there was an effect only on feed intake (P<0.05), with the control treatment showing higher consumption. During the periods of 15 to 35 days and 1 to 35 days, no differences (P>0.05) were observed for performance variables, body composition, relative organ weight, and there were no differences in carcass yield and parts at 35 days. It is concluded that in diets for European quails, 15% DDGS can be included during the growth phase without affecting performance and with greater economic efficiency. The use of additives was not shown to be effective in the diets of growing broiler quails.