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Effects of Abrupt and Multiple Changes in Dietary Nutrient Density on Performance of Broilers

Department of Poultry Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701; Phone: (501) 575-2065; FAX: (501) 575-7294

Correspondence: P. W. Waldroup

Dietary nutrient density levels (energy and associated nutrients) were alternated weekly or changed at the end of the starter (0-21 day) and grower (22-42 day) periods. Two levels of nutrient density were examined (low and high) that would not be atypical of those used by commercial broiler producers. Nutrients were maintained in ratio to ME. Feed consumption, body weight gains, and mortality were determined. Samples of birds were processed for dressing percentage and abdominal fat.

Abrupt and multiple changes in dietary nutrient density did not adversely affect live weight or caloric utilization of broiler chickens grown to 49 days of age. Short-term broiler performance following an abrupt change in dietary nutrient density was generally intermediate of that of broilers fed diets with a constant low or high nutrient density. There were no differences in dressing percentage or abdominal fat content due to changes in nutrient density level. Therefore, if financial considerations justify a significant change in dietary nutrient density, performance changes should not be a concern to producers.

Key Words: Broilers • energy • nutrient density