Modeling broiler energy and protein metabolism

Abstract

Scope and Method of Study: In today's economic climate efficient feed conversion into broiler tissue is essential for successful poultry production. Sophisticated knowledge of broiler nutrient requirements and nutrient content of feed ingredients are needed. Though genetic improvement has produced the most efficient broiler to date, questions related to its nutrients need are expected to continue. Refinements in dietary and environmental factors influencing energetic efficiency need to be developed. The aim of these studies was to evaluate and model broiler protein and energy metabolism in order that better feeding regimen be developed to enhance the quality of production.

Findings and Conclusions: Nutrition comes to play a key role controlling carcass composition. Today's bird has changed dramatically over the years, but new problems are also faced. Not only are the nutrient requirements changing annually, but also the adaptation period for stress has not been overcome. It is well known that poultry, like many other animals, are insufficient in converting feed to protein. To achieve maximum broiler performance, the dietary CP content must provide sufficient levels of EAA and NEAA to allow maximum protein synthesis and meet the demands of metabolic processes. Reduction in nitrogen excretion and improvement in the efficiency of nitrogen deposition can be obtained by matching amino acid composition of the diet with the amino acid requirement of the broiler for maintenance and meat production. Regression equations were developed in order to interpret ATP yield from substrates along with evaluation of Heat Production from various Protein levels.