EVALUATION OF PELLETED AND MASH FEED FORMS ON PERFORMANCE AND HAEMATO-BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS IN BROILER CHICKENS

Abstract: Broiler chicken production is a vital component of the global meat industry, with feed costs representing 60-70% of total production expenses. This study investigates the effects of pelleted and mash feed forms on growth performance and haemato-biochemical parameters in broiler chickens. Eighty (80) one-day-old Arbor Acres broilers were randomly assigned to pelleted or mash feed groups over a 42-day period. Results indicated that pelleted-fed birds achieved significantly higher (P<0.05) final body weights and weight gains in later weeks, though feed intake was also higher in this group. Haemato-biochemical analysis revealed higher (P<0.05) globulin and high-density lipoprotein levels in pelleted-fed birds, suggesting potential immune and metabolic benefits. These findings emphasize the importance of feed form in optimizing broiler performance and health. Pelleted feed demonstrated superior growth outcomes compared to mash feed, with potential health benefits, emphasizing the need for tailored feed strategies in broiler production.