OPTIMIZING BROILER PRODUCTIVITY: INTERACTIONS BETWEEN STOCKING DENSITY AND DIETARY ENERGY-PROTEIN PROFILES IN THE PHILIPPINE SETTING

This study evaluated the effects of varying stocking densities and dietary energy-protein levels on broiler performance, carcass traits, organ weights, and economic outcomes. A total of 360 straight-run Cobb 500 chicks were used in a 3 × 3 factorial design with three stocking densities (4, 8, and 12 birds/m²), three energy levels (2825, 2784, and 2744 kcal/kg ME), and three crude protein levels (18.26%, 20.26%, and 22.26%). Each treatment was replicated five times. Growth performance parameters—average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR)—were measured, along with carcass yield and organ weights. No significant differences were observed in ADG, ADFI, live weight, or carcass characteristics among treatments. However, the combination of 12 birds/m² and the highest protein level (22.26% CP, 2744 kcal/kg ME) resulted in the lowest FCR, indicating improved feed efficiency. Organ weights were not significantly affected by treatments. These findings provide insights into optimizing broiler productivity under different rearing conditions.